Our Commitment to Accessibility, Diversity and Inclusion
The District of Oak Bay is committed to cultivating accessibility, diversity and inclusion and ensuring a sense of community belonging and safety for people of all abilities, identities, ages, and backgrounds in our community.
Below are some of the initiatives that have been or are currently being undertaken to further support diversity, equity and inclusion in Oak Bay.
Have specific feedback and would like to reach out to the District of Oak Bay? View our form and resources below.
Building Inclusive Spaces
Fire Department Facility Upgrades
Renovations completed to add secure, all-gender washrooms/ showers/change rooms, and dorm rooms. Assess individual and shared physical spaces to provide accessible work environments for staff.
Playground Improvements
All new playground projects follow inclusive design standards
Council Chambers Accessibility
Physical upgrades to improve access
Modern Equipment and Safer Workplaces
Modernized Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Firefighters
All new PPE is designed to be DEI compliant, e.g. structural firefighting gloves
Equipment Improvements
New engines and ladder trucks prioritize ergonomic design for all users, and essential tools like ground ladders and the Jaws of Life are lighter, more accessible, and easier to operate
Digital Accessibility and Inclusive Branding
Digital Accessibility Tools
Enhanced screen reader functionality, keyboard navigation, and color contrast on municipal websites
Accessible Branding
Use of Sans-serif fonts and high-contrast colours are used consistently in materials to enhance readability
Removing Barriers and Supporting Diversity
Inclusive Recruitment
Hiring processes refined to eliminate unnecessary barriers and enhance accessibility
Optional Pronoun Use
Supported in branded elements like email signatures
Event planning
Select facilities and locations for events to minimize barriers to full participation by all (washrooms, accessible parking, level surfaces etc.)
Accessible Programs/Events and Community Engagement
Recreation Centres Accessibility Enhancements
Automatic doors, icon-based signage, and sensory-friendly kits in camps
Inclusive Recreation Program Delivery
Seniors Adapted Strength Training, Integrated Swim, and inclusive childcare programs
Community Events and Partnerships
Participation in the Annual Victoria Pride Parade, hosting an annual Pride Swim partnerships offering volunteer roles for adults with developmental disabilities
Inclusive Engagement Practices
Multiple channels for public input, outreach to schools and community groups, and mailed postcards promoting questionnaires to all households
Fostering a Supportive Culture
Workplace Inclusion
Focus on psychological safety, open communication, and equitable growth opportunities
Staff Training
Empathy and de-escalation training for supporting patrons with mental health or substance use challenges
Flexibility
Providing flexible work from home and flexible work arrangements and other accommodation(s) as needed
Accessibility Plan (2025)
Accessibility Committee
The District of Oak Bay’s Accessibility Advisory Committee is an Advisory Body to Council established in accordance with section 9 of the Accessible British Columbia Act. Learn more about the Committee on our Committees page.
Written Feedback
Want to provide written or verbal feedback? Please don’t hesitate to reach out by mail or phone:
- (250) 598-3311
- 2167 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1G2
Att: Accessibility – Corporate Services