The digital world is an increasingly vital part of our lives. Here we are, right now. You, me, and your device. You, me, your device, and millions of other kiwis perusing online spheres for information, love, consumer items, friendship, or education.

Perhaps today in the digital world you’ll get a job, pay a bill, or express yourself through an emoji. Maybe you’ll order groceries, find out how to get somewhere, or post a selfie. Whatever you do, there’s no denying that accessing the digital world is not just an add on anymore, for convenience. It’s now a basic human right, and it’s something that most of us find we need access to in order to be active and included members of society.

But is the digital world built for everyone? At the moment it isn’t, but it could be.

I use an electric wheelchair for mobility, it is quite long from the footplate to the small wheels at the back. When I need an accessible toilet I often find them inaccessible.

I was off to my hairdressing appointment and I needed to cross a road. I found the button for the traffic light, and pressed it, expecting it to beep regularly, but this one didn't make any noise. I listened hard to see if the traffic had stopped.

`When I thought it had, I decided to take my life into my own hands and cross the road quickly.`

Accessible Education speaking points for Meeting with Minister Sepuloni 1 Feb

For Access Alliance delegation

I’d like to tell you about why creating an accessible and inclusive educational environment for all students is really important to me and I’m happy to send through my notes on this afterwards too. I’ll start by telling you a little bit about my own education.

Four in five NZers want accessibility standards - study.   5 September 2017 - Emma Hatton RNZ.

You can listen to the full interview (25 min) interview with David and Amy here.