The Working Group of Accessibility primarily evaluates and promotes accessibility in the built urban environment. It provides accessibility statements for major city planning and construction projects, organizes joint meetings with urban environment designers, and conducts accessibility inspections.
In addition to physical accessibility, the group also aims to promote social accessibility, recognizing the multiculturalism and diversity of Tampere residents.
The working group consists of eight members, appointed by the Tampere Disability Council. One member is nominated by the Older People's Council.
The group meets once a month on Thursdays from 2 PM to 5 PM. Meetings are primarily held in person in accessible venues, though remote meetings may occasionally be arranged. Working language of the group is Finnish. The group adheres to safer space principles.
– Members of the Working Group of Accessibility are experts by experience who themselves face mobility or functional challenges. These may include the use of mobility aids, visual or hearing impairments, developmental disabilities, chronic illnesses, or neurodivergent traits, explains Mikko Ala-Kapee, Non-Discrimination Coordinator for the City of Tampere.
New members wanted
The Working Group of Accessibility is currently seeking new members for the two-year term 2025–2027.
– We expect applicants to have a mobility or functional challenge, as well as the interest and availability to participate regularly in the group’s activities. Professional expertise in accessibility is not required, but we consider it an asset if the applicant is well acquainted with relevant legislation, guidelines, and recommendations, says Katja Metsävainio, Chair of the Disability Council.
You can apply using an online form (in Finnish). In your informal application, briefly introduce yourself and explain why you would be a suitable member of the Working Group of Accessibility. The application deadline is Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
The Disability Council will select the new members at its meeting, based on its own discretion. The goal is to ensure broad representation of Tampere residents with diverse mobility and functional challenges.
