"WE CAN ALL CONTRIBUTE IN OUR OWN WAY" : KNOWLEDGE MOBILIZATION TOOLS TO PROMOTE BEST PRACTICES IN UNIVERSAL ACCESSIBILITY

Abstract

Background: Cities aim to enhance urban accessibility following the adoption of the United Nations' Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, implementation faces challenges due to complex municipal legislation, lack of awareness, and organizational obstacles. Engaging stakeholders and empowering municipal employees through knowledge mobilization is crucial, as shown in a Quebec City's partnership research process. Methods: The aim of this study is to report the implementation strategy as implemented, explore the perception of the employees about the format and feasibility of the implementation strategy and explore the induced changes of knowledge mobilization tools on the implementation determinants of universal accessibility measures for municipal employees. The study used a multi-method design, involving interviews and a questionnaire with the project steering committee, made up of city employees and the research team. Three 30-minute participatory workshops were conducted for culture, communications, and public consultation administrative units. Results: Participants appreciated the workshop format and video content, suggesting minor improvements for broader implementation. The tools effectively increased engagement in implementing universal accessibility measures, proving valuable for raising awareness. Discussion and Conclusion: The study demonstrates the advantages of a collaborative approach in developing knowledge mobilization tools, enhancing municipal personnel's capacity for universal accessibility measures, and highlighting the need for adaptable strategies.