Building inclusion through everyday actions: APM’s Empathy and Equity Builder Program

Teams and individuals across Advanced Personnel Management (APM) Group have engaged with a new program to strengthen accessibility, empathy, and inclusion in everyday work.

Initially launched on 2025’s International Day of People with Disabilities, global health and human services organisation APM Group has committed to continue the Empathy and Equity Builder program for its workforce all year round.

The initial suite of Empathy and Equity Builder resources was co‑designed by employees with lived experience of disability and access barriers. This first release was delivered as a pilot, providing an opportunity to test practical approaches and consider how the program can expand over time to reflect the diverse access experiences and needs that APM people and customers encounter every day.

The program demonstrates how accessibility matters to fair and equitable participation for everyone. It explores how, when environments, technologies, and processes are designed inclusively, people with disability can contribute fully and independently. These approaches improve communication, reduce barriers, and support more effective workplaces.

The Empathy and Equity Builder program includes hands-on activities and resources to help people embed accessibility into everyday tasks. The tools are designed to make inclusion easier, more intuitive, and part of routine decision making.

The program also includes a summary of Microsoft’s Assistive Technology Tools, highlighting features that support accessible documents, communications, and digital experiences.

A key activity is the Screen Reader Exercise, a 30-minute introduction to technology used by people who are blind or have low vision. Participants learn how screen readers work, practise real tasks, and learn how to create more accessible content.

Suitable for individuals and teams, the activity provides a practical and eye-opening experience. APM aims for employees to build stronger understanding, empathy, and confidence in creating accessible and inclusive experiences where everyone can contribute and thrive.