When disasters strike, volunteers play a crucial role in response and recovery. But what happens when willing volunteers face barriers that prevent them from stepping forward? Across Canada, many individuals with disabilities want to help, yet systemic challenges keep them on the sidelines.
My research with Royal Roads University has uncovered an overlooked group in disaster response: Canadians with disabilities. Despite facing challenges, many are eager to volunteer with the Canadian Humanitarian Workforce (HWF) program. However, lack of awareness, training requirements, and transportation issues prevent full participation.
This research is based on qualitative data collected from 120 survey respondents and two focus groups. The survey provided insights into broad trends and barriers affecting volunteer participation, while the focus groups allowed for deeper exploration of individual experiences. Participants included individuals interested in volunteering, current and former volunteers, and those who faced obstacles preventing them from participating in disaster response efforts. The combination of survey responses and focus group discussions provided an understanding of the challenges and potential solutions for increasing inclusivity in the HWF program.
Survey results show that 23% of respondents self-identified as having a disability or medical limitation. Among them, 70% said they would volunteer with the five NGOs participating in the HWF program. Regional differences stood out—while Western and Central Canada had similar participation rates (20% and 21%), Atlantic Canada had the highest engagement, with 32% of respondents willing to volunteer.
Despite their willingness, many volunteers with disabilities face significant barriers. Many are simply unaware of opportunities—21% of respondents cited lack of awareness as a major issue. Training requirements are another challenge, with 10% saying they are not accessible enough. Transportation is also a problem, especially for those in rural areas who struggle to reach volunteer sites.
Respondents with disabilities perceived the barriers from the five NGOs participating in the HWF program: the Canadian Red Cross, The Salvation Army, St. John Ambulance, Team Rubicon Canada, and the Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada. The HWF program has been operating since 2021 and is set to expire in March 2026, leaving uncertainty about its future and the continued availability of volunteer opportunities.
Financial incentives are a key factor in increasing participation. Survey respondents with limitations in Western and Central Canada said tax deductions or stipends would make volunteering more manageable, while 42% in Atlantic Canada identified financial support as a top priority. Symbolic recognition, like medals or certificates, was also appealing, particularly among Western Canadian respondents.
Most of those with disabilities who are willing to volunteer are retired or employed full-time. Many have post-secondary education, and a significant number rely on public transit. In Atlantic Canada, 21% of volunteers use public transit compared to 8% in Central Canada and 4% in Western Canada. These differences highlight the need for region-specific solutions.
Addressing these barriers requires targeted strategies. Awareness campaigns through social media and community organizations can help potential volunteers learn about opportunities. Online or flexible training options make participation straightforward, while subsidized travel, organized transportation, or remote volunteer roles can overcome mobility issues. Offering tax deductions, stipends, or small payments could also encourage participation. Expanding volunteer roles beyond physical labour to include coordination, data analysis, and outreach would further support inclusivity for people with disabilities.
Canadians with disabilities are an untapped resource in disaster response efforts. They want to help but need better support from participating NGOs. The HWF program can create a more inclusive and effective volunteer workforce by improving awareness, training, transportation, and incentives. With the program’s funding set to expire in 2026, now is the time to advocate for its renewal and ensure volunteer opportunities remain accessible for all Canadians willing to help in times of crisis.
Note: The earlier summaries of my study focuses on the regional variations which people reported facing when volunteering with NGOs involved in the Humanitarian Workforce (HWF) program. This fourth summary collates the regional variations of barriers reported by people with disabilities.
Links to the related summaries:
Western Canada faces growing need for disaster volunteers as key disaster response program nears expiry.
Atlantic Canada’s Volunteer Crisis: Disaster Response Faces Further Challenges as Federal Program Nears Expiry
Volunteering in Central Canada: A Workforce in Need of Change Before Disaster Response Program Ends
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