In our recent search for an accessible home following being served with a S21 notice and my changing health needs, we have encountered a disappointingly high level of discrimination and prejudice. Finding an accessible property has proven to be a challenging and frustrating process, not because suitable accommodations do not exist, but simply due to the discriminatory attitudes of several estate agents/landlords we have encountered.
In both private and social housing sectors, we have faced barriers. Despite legal protections against discrimination based on disability, we have been told by multiple landlords that they do not accept wheelchair users or those who do not have traditional full-time employment. The scarcity of accessible social housing options only adds to the difficulty of finding a suitable living situation before our S21 expires.
What has become abundantly clear throughout this process is that the real obstacle we face is not my health or disability, but society’s unwillingness to make simple accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Accessible housing should not be considered to be a luxury but a basic necessity. Yet we find ourselves constantly met with obstacles and roadblocks. While there may be laws in place to protect against discrimination, they seem like empty gestures in the face of the everyday reality.
It is time for society to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity in housing and other areas to ensure that individuals with disabilities are able to live independently and with dignity. The current state of affairs is unacceptable, and it is up to all of us to work towards a more inclusive and accessible society for everyone.
Dystonia and Me 