AIA NZ is thrilled to announce it has been awarded the Accessibility Tick for the second time, in recognition of its ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all.
To celebrate this milestone and mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, AIA NZ is proud to launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme for its people.
Nick Stanhope, AIA NZ CEO says: “I’m delighted to accept the Accessibility Tick on behalf of AIA NZ.”
“At AIA NZ we believe in building a diverse and inclusive workplace where all our people feel a sense of belonging. Achieving the Accessibility Tick again is a testament to the continued dedication and efforts of many across the business to create a workplace where everyone feels supported and empowered to bring their whole, unique selves to work.”
“With approximately a quarter of New Zealanders affected by a physical, sensory, learning, mental health or other impairment, we understand disability and neurodiversity touches all aspects of our business – our people, our customers and partners as well as our wider community – and we’re committed to working with our AIA NZ whānau to ensure we’re meeting their accessibility needs.
“The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a great programme with the aim to help make the invisible, visible. It exists to help those with disabilities that are not immediately obvious such as autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety, visual or hearing impairment,” says Nick.
Phil Turner, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Disability Employers’ Network says: “We at the New Zealand Disability Employers' Network congratulate AIA NZ on retaining the Accessibility Tick. This achievement reflects the dedication of the AIA NZ team to foster an inclusive environment. Their commitment to having a plan about disability and neurodiversity inclusion, and initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme and the Neurodiversity Toolkit are commendable.”
In addition to the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, 2024 has also seen AIA NZ design and embed a Neurodiversity Toolkit, which included working with the NZ Disability Employers’ Network, Autism NZ, ADHD NZ and Dyslexia Consulting to create an AIA NZ specific toolkit for individuals, leaders and colleagues; working with Be. Lab to create a tertiary student internship to provide work experience for students with a disability in their area of study or aspiration; plus business-wide communications in NZ Sign Language to celebrate NZ Sign Language Week.
“At AIA NZ, our purpose is to help people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, and we apply this philosophy to all that we do. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we look forward to continuing to explore new ways to enhance accessibility and inclusivity across our organisation,” concludes Nick.
