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News and events

News
Adidas lets you buy a single trainer instead of a pair
The world changes when people’s real needs are taken into account. Adidas has introduced the option in 22 European countries to buy a single trainer rather than a pair — for people with amputations or limb differences. And this isn’t a marketing ploy, but a logical and necessary solution. Previously, people had to buy a full pair, even if they only needed one trainer, overpaying for the extra one and adapting to a system that did not take their needs into account. Now the approach is changing: you can buy a single trainer for half the price of a pair in regular shops with no additional conditions It is important that this solution was developed in collaboration with people with disabilities, rather than without taking their experiences into account. This example demonstrates true accessibility: when separate ‘special’ products are not created but standard services are adapted for everyone when inclusion is manifested in concrete actions In Ukraine, such initiatives are still rare. However, it is precisely these simple solutions that foster accessibility, respect and equal opportunities. The world is already moving in this direction — Ukraine should also move from words to practical changes.
26.03.2026
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Ukraine launches training programme for accessibility specialists
A new system for training specialists in the field of accessibility is being established in Ukraine. Ten of the country’s leading universities have already joined the initiative, including Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture , Lviv Polytechnic National University and the National Aviation University . These are professional development programmes for architects, engineers, community representatives and government officials. Their aim is to teach participants how to create accessible spaces not just in theory, but in practice. The training will last at least 60 hours and will include: the basics of accessibility assessing the accessibility of facilities practical surveys developing specific recommendations Upon completion, participants will receive certificates and will be able to professionally assess the accessibility of the environment. This is an important step forward. After all, accessibility is not about formal ramps, but about high-quality solutions that have a real impact on people’s lives. At the same time, the key question remains: will these specialists have sufficient authority and influence? It is on this that it depends whether accessibility in Ukraine will become an everyday norm, rather than merely a declaration.
25.03.2026
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Articles
Accessible route inspected in the Novorozdil community
The Novorozdil community is demonstrating how the concept of accessibility is being put into practice. Last week, specialists from the Lviv Region Accessibility Council, together with experts, carried out an on-site inspection of the route at the invitation of the town council. This was not a formal inspection, but practical work carried out directly on site — analysing actual facilities, the environment and any issues that could still be rectified. Community representatives, designers and experts joined the process, including Mykola Nadulichny, as well as representatives of the ‘Third After Midnight’ Museum in the Dark — Ostap Nesterovsky and Heorhiy Halas. The participants walked the planned route together — from administrative buildings and educational institutions to public spaces. The main focus was on the basics: accessibility of entrances organisation of the surrounding area sanitary and hygiene facilities During the survey, it was possible to identify not only barriers but also typical mistakes that often arise as early as the design stage. This is precisely what allows us to avoid problems in the future. It is also important to note that the community is already collaborating with businesses and seeking partnerships. After all, accessibility is not just the responsibility of the authorities, but a shared endeavour for everyone. Novorozdil demonstrates that change begins where there is a willingness to assess, listen and refine solutions. This is precisely how a barrier-free environment is created.
24.03.2026
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News
Lviv launches ‘respite care’ for carers
A new social service is being introduced in Lviv — ‘respite care’ for people who look after those with disabilities on a daily basis. This is an important sign: the focus is gradually shifting not only to those who need care, but also to those who provide it. The service is provided at the Supported Living Centre on Pasichna Street. There, full support is provided: accommodation, meals, care and domestic assistance. The following are eligible to use the programme: families and carers of people with disabilities families with members suffering from severe or incurable illnesses individuals providing constant daily care Duration of the service: up to 30 days per year minimum — 10 days per period To receive assistance, you must contact the social welfare authorities and submit an application, medical documents and proof of care provision. Following this, specialists assess needs and draw up an individual plan. It is important to note that this service is free of charge in Lviv. Similar schemes have been in place for a long time in many countries, but are only just beginning to emerge in Ukraine. This is a step towards a modern social policy, where support for carers is recognised as just as necessary as assistance for people with disabilities.
24.03.2026
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Articles
90% without support: the home care crisis in Ukraine
In Ukraine, between 2 and 3 million people require home care, yet in reality only around 10% actually receive it. This means that the vast majority are left to cope with their daily needs on their own. In practice, this looks like this: people have no help with basic tasks — hygiene, mobility, and meals healthcare workers often do not reach them the system fails to identify such people — they are forced to seek help themselves In reality, care relies not on the state, but on families. According to research: over 80% of people with carers do not receive official support most carers lack proper training many are forced to leave their jobs to care for loved ones This is a huge, yet almost invisible, labour without which the system simply would not exist. One of the key problems is fragmentation: the healthcare system operates separately social services operate separately responsibilities are often unclear As a result, people who need help are effectively left without it. To change the situation, systemic steps are needed: integrating medical and social care developing a comprehensive home care service supporting family carers training and support clear accountability at the community level Today, home care in Ukraine is not a well-established service, but a daily struggle for families. And without systemic changes, the situation will not change for most people.
23.03.2026
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News
Ukrainian veterans are developing technologies to support life after amputation
War changes lives, but at the same time it spurs the creation of solutions that help people regain their independence. Ukrainian veteran and combat medic Hlib Beshkarev began developing adaptive devices for people with amputations and injuries after leaving the service. Using 3D modelling and modern technologies, he creates accessible solutions for everyday life. His motivation stems from his own experience. On the front line, he saw how even basic daily tasks become difficult following injuries. This is precisely what spurred him to seek practical ways to make people’s lives more comfortable and independent. According to him, in Ukraine, many adaptive devices are either unavailable or too expensive due to import costs. At the same time, many of them can be manufactured locally — faster, cheaper and tailored to users’ real needs. Such initiatives are particularly important today, when thousands of military personnel and civilians are undergoing rehabilitation following injuries. After all, following an amputation, a person needs more than just a prosthesis — it is vital that both their environment and everyday items are adapted to their needs. For the public sector, this is a signal: the country’s inclusive recovery must encompass not only medical rehabilitation, but also the development of adaptive technologies and accessible design. Supporting such solutions is a contribution to accessibility and genuine independence for people who have survived the war.
21.03.2026
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Articles
A veteran from Mykolaiv has created a video guide for amputees
In Mykolaiv, veteran Oleksandr Tereshchenko has launched a series of video guides for people who have undergone amputation. The project is called ‘I did it – and so can you’ and is designed to provide practical support in everyday life. In the videos, the author shares his own experience and demonstrates how to adapt after serious injuries. He covers simple yet important tasks: cooking, personal hygiene, driving, and other daily activities that may seem difficult or impossible after an amputation. So far, 16 videos have been produced. In addition, the team has prepared podcasts on social adaptation and an online guide in comic book format. The initiative was implemented with the support of the US Embassy in Ukraine. Oleksandr himself was wounded during the anti-terrorist operation in eastern Ukraine over ten years ago. According to him, the idea for the project arose from personal experience: finding solutions to basic everyday tasks can take years if there is no accessible information. Such initiatives are of particular importance for Ukraine today. After all, thousands of people are undergoing rehabilitation following injuries and require not only medical care but also practical tools to return to independent living. The development of such projects is an important part of the country’s inclusive recovery, where access to knowledge and support is key to independence.
19.03.2026
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When ‘digitalisation’ creates new barriers: queues due to the transfer of social payments
In recent months, people across Ukraine have been queuing for hours at the service centres of the Pension Fund of Ukraine. Among them are pensioners, internally displaced persons, young parents and people with disabilities. The reason is the transfer of social payments from social protection agencies to the Pension Fund. The reform was supposed to simplify the social support system, but in practice, many difficulties have arisen. What caused the problems: During the transfer of personal files from social protection agencies to the Pension Fund, errors occurred in the registers. Some of the data had to be restored manually, which significantly slowed down the system. The Pension Fund was simultaneously tasked with administering dozens of new types of social benefits, including assistance to people with disabilities, families with children, and subsidies. The system was not fully prepared for such a workload. The ‘online services’ that the state is banking on are not accessible to everyone. For many elderly people, people with disabilities, or those who do not use digital services, electronic identification or video calls are a new barrier rather than a simplification. Physical barriers also add to this: not all Pension Fund offices are accessible to people with reduced mobility. Stairs, lack of ramps or other obstacles make it even more difficult to access services. Barrier-free access is not just about infrastructure. It is also about the accessibility of public services, understandable procedures, simple digital solutions and respect for people's needs. Reforms of the social system are indeed necessary. But it is important that they do not create new barriers for those who need support the most.
11.03.2026
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News
Online accessibility: government websites are becoming more accessible
Digital accessibility is an important part of a barrier-free environment. For many people, government websites are the main way to obtain information, submit applications or use services. According to the results of a new accessibility monitoring of 100 websites of executive authorities, conducted by the United Nations Development Programme in cooperation with the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, 52 government websites already have a sufficient or high level of basic accessibility. This is significant progress: the number of websites with a high level of accessibility has increased from 7 in 2024 to 29 in 2025 another 23 websites have a sufficient level of accessibility in total, more than half of government online resources already meet the basic requirements for digital inclusiveness During the assessment, key elements of web accessibility were checked: text contrast alternative text for images clear link names accessibility of forms and buttons ability to control the website with a keyboard At the same time, almost half of government websites still have a medium or low level of accessibility. This means that barriers remain for people who use screen readers, have visual impairments, or have other specific needs when using digital services. Accessibility is not just about ramps or lifts. It is also about the accessibility of information and government services online. A digital state should be convenient for everyone, regardless of age, health, or technical skills. It is important that the principles of digital accessibility become the standard for all government services.
10.03.2026
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News
‘Accessible’: Ivano-Frankivsk will celebrate barrier-free spaces
Ivano-Frankivsk has introduced a special city award, ‘Accessible,’ for establishments and spaces that truly care about accessibility. This initiative is designed to support businesses and institutions that adapt their premises to the needs of people with disabilities, veterans, parents with prams, and older people. Various establishments are eligible for the award: cafes, restaurants, shops, pharmacies, beauty salons medical centres, banks, hotels, sports clubs residential complexes and buildings that have been renovated with accessibility in mind public spaces - parks, shopping centres, educational institutions, co-working spaces The facilities will be inspected by a special monitoring group involving accessibility experts, representatives of public organisations for people with disabilities and the veteran community. Facilities that meet the criteria will receive an ‘ACCESSIBLE’ sign for their façade and will be included on the city's online map of accessible places. The LAOPD considers such initiatives to be very important. After all, accessibility does not begin with laws and regulations alone — it begins with examples that show that accessibility can and should be the norm. And when the city recognises responsible businesses, it encourages others to make their spaces accessible to everyone. This is how, step by step, a truly barrier-free environment is created.
09.03.2026
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Events
Strength, dignity and equality - Ukrainian women are changing the world
Dear women! We congratulate you on International Women's Day. Ukrainian women today are a symbol of strength, dignity and resilience. You defend the country on the front lines, save lives in hospitals, support families, work, volunteer and bring about change in communities. This day is not just about spring and flowers. It is about respect, equality, opportunities and the right of every woman to live without barriers. Among the women of Ukraine, there are many who overcome difficulties every day - women with disabilities, mothers, displaced persons, veterans. But despite all the challenges, you continue to build a strong, humane and just society. We sincerely thank each of you for your strength, care, professionalism and faith in the future. We wish you health, support, warmth and new opportunities. May there always be dignity, respect and equal opportunities in your life. Happy holiday! Luhansk Association of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (LAOPD)
08.03.2026
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Events
Ukrainians took all the podium places at the 2026 Paralympics on the first day
At the end of the first day of competition at the 2026 Winter Paralympics, the Ukrainian team immediately took the lead in the medal standings. Ukrainian para-biathletes showed incredible results, completely dominating the podium in the sprint race, winning gold, silver and bronze. This is yet another confirmation of the high level of the Ukrainian Paralympic school and the strength of our athletes, who, despite all the challenges, continue to demonstrate true character and professionalism to the world.\ All of Ukraine's medals on the first day of competition: Gold: Taras Rad - biathlon, sprint, sitting class Oleksandra Kononova - biathlon, sprint, standing class Oleksandr Kazik - biathlon, sprint, visually impaired class Silver: Yaroslav Reshetynskyi - biathlon, sprint, visually impaired class Bronze: Liudmyla Liashenko - biathlon, sprint, standing class Anatoliy Kovalevskyi – biathlon, sprint, visually impaired class With three gold medals and six medals in total, the Ukrainian team topped the Paralympic Games standings. In terms of the number of medals, Ukraine is tied with China. These victories are of particular significance for Ukraine. In times of war, they symbolise the resilience, unity and indomitability of our country. We congratulate the Ukrainian athletes on their brilliant results and thank them for the pride they bring to the whole of Ukraine.
07.03.2026
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