Accessibility

Compliance Status

We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the broadest possible audience, regardless of ability.

To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities.

Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

Screen-Reader And Keyboard Navigation

Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers can read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements:

Screen-reader optimization: we run a process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others.

Additionally, the background process scans all of the website’s images. It provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts embedded within the image using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

These adjustments are compatible with popular screen readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack.

Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.

Additionally, keyboard users will find content-skip menus available at any time by clicking Alt+2, or as the first element of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, not allowing the focus to drift outside.

Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Disability Profiles Supported On Our Website

Epilepsy Safe Profile: this profile enables people with epilepsy to safely use the website by eliminating the risk of seizures resulting from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.

Vision Impaired Profile: this profile adjusts the website so that it is accessible to the majority of visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.

Cognitive Disability Profile: this profile provides various assistive features to help users with cognitive disabilities such as Autism, Dyslexia, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements more easily.

ADHD Friendly Profile: this profile significantly reduces distractions and noise to help people with ADHD, and Neurodevelopmental disorders browse, read, and focus on the essential elements more easily.

Blind Users Profile (Screen-readers): this profile adjusts the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is installed on the blind user’s computer, and this site is compatible with it.

Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements. Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

Font adjustments – users can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.

Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds with over seven different coloring options.

Animations – epileptic users can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions. Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize essential elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.

Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize essential elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.

Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.

Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.

Additional functions – we allow users to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

Assistive Technology And Browser Compatibility

We aim to support as many browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS, and NVDA (screen readers), both for Windows and MAC users.

Accessibility Policy

1.0 Purpose

This Policy outlines Life Assure’s commitment to meeting the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities in a timely manner and in a way that respects dignity, independence, equal opportunity, and access.

Life Assure is committed to identifying, removing, and preventing barriers to accessibility across its services, employment practices, communications, and office environments.

2.0 Definitions

Accessible Formats

Alternative formats designed to make information accessible to persons with disabilities, including but not limited to large print, audio recordings, and electronic formats.

Accommodation

Adjustments, supports, or arrangements provided to persons with disabilities to ensure equitable access to Life Assure’s services, employment opportunities, and programs.

Barrier

Anything that prevents a person with a disability from fully participating in or accessing services, employment, communication, or facilities. Barriers may be physical, technological, attitudinal, or communication-related.

Communication

The exchange of information between two or more individuals.

Communication Supports

Supports that facilitate effective communication, including plain language, sign language interpretation, captioning, and other accessible methods.

Disability

Any physical, mental, emotional, developmental, learning, temporary, permanent, visible, or invisible impairment that may limit a person’s participation or access.

Information

Data, knowledge, or content communicated in any format, including written, audio, digital, or visual formats.

Mobility Aid

A device used to assist with transportation or mobility while seated.

Mobility Assistive Device

A device such as a cane, walker, or similar aid used to assist mobility.

Service Animal

An animal that has been trained or is readily identifiable as assisting a person with a disability.

3.0 Commitment to Accessibility

Life Assure is committed to providing accessible services, employment opportunities, and communication practices for persons with disabilities.

Life Assure will ensure that:

• Services are delivered in a manner that respects dignity, independence, and equal opportunity.
• Information and communications are available in accessible formats upon request.
• Accessibility considerations are integrated into workplace practices and employment processes.
• Individuals may use their own assistive devices while accessing Life Assure services, provided such devices are operated safely.
• Individuals accompanied by a service animal are permitted access to Life Assure premises unless otherwise prohibited by law.
• Support persons accompanying individuals with disabilities are welcomed and accommodated appropriately.
• Notice of temporary disruptions to accessible facilities or services will be communicated as early as possible, including the reason, expected duration, and available alternatives where applicable.

Life Assure will maintain and regularly review a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan outlining strategies for identifying, removing, and preventing barriers to accessibility.

The Accessibility Plan will be made available in accessible formats upon request and reviewed at minimum every five years.

4.0 Accessible Information and Communication

4.1 Accessible Websites and Digital Content

Life Assure is committed to ensuring its websites and digital content conform to applicable accessibility standards, including Level A and Level AA requirements of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

4.2 Accessible Communication Practices

a. Feedback Process

Life Assure will ensure that feedback processes are accessible by providing accessible formats and communication support upon request.

Individuals may provide feedback or inquiries through methods most convenient to them, including:

• Email
• Written correspondence
• Online communication channels

b. Accessible Formats and Communication Supports

Upon request, Life Assure will provide or arrange for accessible formats and communication support in a timely manner and in consultation with the individual making the request.

4.3 Unconvertible Information

If information or communication cannot reasonably be converted into an accessible format, Life Assure will provide:

• An explanation as to why the information cannot be converted; and
• A summary of the unavailable or unconvertible information.

5.0 Employment

5.1 Emergency Response Information

Life Assure will provide workplace emergency response information and individualized emergency response plans where required for employees with disabilities.

5.2 Accessible Employment Practices

a. Recruitment

Life Assure will notify applicants that accommodations are available throughout the recruitment and hiring process upon request.

Applicants requiring accommodation will be consulted to determine appropriate accessibility support.

Successful applicants will be informed of Life Assure’s accommodation policies.

b. Workplace Accommodation

Life Assure is committed to accommodating employees with disabilities and providing accessible workplace information and communication support as required.

Employees requesting accommodation should notify their manager or Human Resources representative. Supporting medical documentation may be requested where appropriate.

Where required by legislation, individualized accommodation plans will be developed and maintained.

c. Return to Work Process

Life Assure maintains a documented return-to-work process for employees returning from disability-related leave and requiring accommodation.

Employees are encouraged to notify management or Human Resources as early as possible regarding anticipated return-to-work arrangements.

d. Performance Management and Career Development

Accessibility needs and accommodation plans will be considered in performance management, career development, and advancement opportunities.

e. Redeployment

Where redeployment occurs, Life Assure will consider the accessibility needs and accommodation plans of employees with disabilities.

6.0 Accessible Office Environment

6.1 Office Accessibility

Life Assure will consider accessibility when designing, renovating, or maintaining office spaces and workplace environments.

Where applicable, office areas and meeting spaces will be designed to support accessibility and accommodate mobility aids and assistive devices.

Accessible pathways and entrances within office environments will be maintained in accordance with applicable accessibility standards and legislation.

7.0 Training

7.1 Accessibility Training

Life Assure will provide accessibility training to employees, volunteers, contractors, and others providing services on behalf of the organization.

Training will include:

• Applicable accessibility legislation and standards
• Human rights obligations related to persons with disabilities
• Accessible customer service practices
• Communication and accommodation best practices

Training will be appropriate to each individual’s role and responsibilities and will be provided as soon as reasonably practicable following commencement of duties or changes to accessibility policies or procedures.

8.0 Reference Documents

• Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

9.0 Policy Interpretation

Responsibility for the interpretation and administration of this Policy rests with Life Assure’s leadership and Human Resources department.

Life Assure Multi-Year Accessibility Plan

Introduction

Life Assure is committed to providing services, employment opportunities, and workplace environments in an integrated and accessible manner that respects the dignity, independence, and equal opportunity of persons with disabilities.

This Multi-Year Accessibility Plan supports and complements Life Assure’s Accessibility Policy and outlines the organization’s ongoing strategy to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to accessibility. The Plan reflects Life Assure’s commitment to meeting or exceeding applicable accessibility legislation requirements in Manitoba, and across Canada.

Life Assure’s Accessibility Policy establishes the organization’s commitment to accessibility and provides the framework through which accessibility standards and practices are implemented throughout the organization.

This Multi-Year Accessibility Plan will be reviewed and updated at least once every five years.

Feedback and Alternative Formats

Life Assure welcomes feedback regarding accessibility, customer service, employment practices, and this Accessibility Plan.

Questions, comments, and feedback may be provided through the communication method most convenient to the individual, including:

• Email
• Written correspondence
• Online communication channels

Life Assure will provide accessible formats and communication support upon request and in a timely manner.

Individuals requesting accessible formats or communication supports will be consulted to determine the most appropriate accommodation method.

Accessibility policies, procedures, and this Multi-Year Accessibility Plan will be made available in accessible formats upon request.

Definitions

Accessibility

The design of products, services, environments, technologies, policies, and practices in a manner that allows all individuals, including persons with disabilities, to fully participate and access them.

Barrier

Anything that limits or prevents participation, access, or inclusion for persons with disabilities. Barriers may be physical, technological, communication-related, procedural, or attitudinal.

Disability

Any physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication, temporary, permanent, visible, or invisible impairment that may impact participation or accessibility.

Service Animal

An animal that has been trained or is readily identifiable as assisting a person with a disability.

Customer Service Accessibility

Achievements

Life Assure provides accessibility training to employees and individuals acting on behalf of the organization who interact with clients, customers, employees, or the public.

Training includes:

• Accessibility standards and legislative requirements
• Best practices for communicating with and supporting persons with disabilities
• Proper interaction with assistive devices, service animals, and support persons

Training is provided as soon as reasonably practicable after hire and updated whenever accessibility policies or procedures change.

Individuals with disabilities are permitted to use their own assistive devices while accessing Life Assure services, provided such devices are operated safely.

Individuals accompanied by service animals are permitted access to Life Assure premises unless prohibited by law. Where restrictions exist, alternative accommodations will be explored.

Support persons accompanying individuals with disabilities will be welcomed and accommodated appropriately.

Life Assure will provide notice of temporary disruptions to accessible services or facilities, including the reason for the disruption, anticipated duration, and available alternatives where applicable.

Planned Actions

• Continue providing accessibility and disability awareness training to employees.
• Continue reviewing customer and workplace accessibility practices to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Continue promoting an inclusive and accessible service environment.

Information and Communication

Achievements

Life Assure is committed to maintaining accessible digital content and websites that align with recognized accessibility standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

Installation of AccesiBe to assist in achieving WCAG 2.1 compliance and the best web viewing experience for all visitors.

Accessibility considerations are incorporated into website development and digital communication practices.

Emergency procedures and public safety information are made available in accessible formats upon request.

Alternative emergency preparedness plans are developed for employees requiring individualized accommodation due to a disability.

Accessible communication supports and formats are provided upon request in a timely manner and at no additional cost.

Planned Actions

• Continue reviewing and improving website accessibility and WCAG compliance.
• Continue increasing awareness of inclusive technology and accessibility tools within the workplace.
• Continue incorporating accessible communication features such as captioning and accessible digital content where appropriate.

Employment

Achievements

Life Assure notifies job applicants and employees that accommodations are available throughout recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and employment processes.

Accommodation information is included in recruitment materials, interview scheduling communications, and onboarding practices.

Where accommodation is requested, Life Assure consults with the individual to determine appropriate and effective accommodation measures.

Successful applicants are informed of Life Assure’s accessibility and accommodation policies.

Employees responsible for recruitment, onboarding, and people leadership receive accessibility and accommodation training.

Life Assure maintains processes for:

• Individual accommodation plans
• Return-to-work accommodations
• Accessible onboarding
• Performance management accommodations
• Career development accessibility considerations
• Redeployment accommodations where applicable

Accessibility needs and accommodation plans are considered throughout the employment lifecycle.

Planned Actions

• Continue partnering with organizations that support employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
• Continue improving accessibility within recruitment and hiring processes.
• Continue educating leaders and employees regarding workplace accommodations and accessibility responsibilities.
• Continue reviewing workplace systems and processes to improve accessibility and inclusion.

Integrated Accessibility Standards Training

Achievements

Accessibility training is provided to employees across the organization through ongoing learning and training programs.

Training includes:

• Accessibility legislation requirements
• Accessible customer service
• Workplace accommodation practices
• Inclusive communication and accessibility awareness

Training is completed upon hire and updated as required.

Planned Actions

• Continue mandatory accessibility training for leaders and employees.
• Continue updating accessibility education and awareness initiatives across the organization.

Accessible Office Environment

Achievements

Accessibility considerations are integrated into office design, renovations, and workplace planning where applicable.

Life Assure has implemented accessible workplace features including:

• Accessible entrances and pathways
• Universal or accessible washroom facilities where available
• Accessible meeting rooms and workspaces
• Flexible workspace and seating options
• Quiet or low-distraction spaces where appropriate
• Automatic door openers where feasible
• Inclusive office layouts that support mobility aids and assistive devices

Procedures are in place to address temporary disruptions affecting accessible features or services.

Planned Actions

• Continue reviewing workplace accessibility based on employee and visitor feedback.
• Continue identifying opportunities to improve accessibility within office environments and meeting spaces.
• Continue evaluating accessibility enhancements related to technology, communication, workspace design, and employee accommodation needs.

Accessible Culture

Life Assure is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and accessible workplace culture.

Through ongoing education, awareness initiatives, and accessibility planning, Life Assure will continue working to remove barriers and support equal participation for persons with disabilities.

Life Assure will continue evaluating policies, procedures, technologies, and workplace practices to support accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunity across the organization.