The first lift to the philharmonic stage in Ukraine has been launched in Lviv, providing barrier-free access for all visitors.
Today, the lift was tested by students of the Social Services Center ‘Dzherelo’. This is an important technical solution not only for visitors but also for staff, as among the philharmonic workers are our veterans who return to work after injuries and rehabilitation.
Last year, more than 1.8 million UAH were allocated from the regional budget to create a barrier-free space in the Lviv National Philharmonic. This allowed for convenient and safe access to the stage and concert hall, the installation of a lift platform for people using wheelchairs, the setup of accessible restrooms, the launch of a modern auditory system for people with hearing impairments, and the installation of a call assistant button.
Over the year, the philharmonic has hosted over 82,000 visitors, many of whom are people with disabilities. Hence, these changes are a critical necessity. ‘I thank the philharmonic staff, the Department of Culture, Nationalities, and Religions of the Lviv Regional State Administration, and the Lviv Regional Council’s deputies for their collective readiness to consistently develop barrier-free environments in Lviv region’, said a representative of the philharmonic.
Accessibility is not just about ramps and lifts. It is about changes in mindset, the perception of oneself and others. It is about dignity and equal opportunities for all. I believe that step by step, we will succeed in creating a truly open society.