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Ukrainian society is currently undergoing profound changes, which involve reintegrating and learning to support our defenders. Returning to civilian life, veterans, especially those who have been wounded, face many challenges to inclusion in Ukraine. For some, this means long-term physical rehabilitation, for others, psychotherapy. One of these seemingly invisible barriers can be a simple visit to a restaurant. That is why businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, are more responsible than ever for creating a barrier-free environment.
Today, we will talk about an important element of such a space: inclusive tableware. What is it and what role does it play in ensuring comfort for military personnel with special needs?
A problem that is not talked about openly
To understand why it is worth investing in inclusivity, you need to look at your business through the eyes of a customer for whom a regular trip to a restaurant turns into a civilian “combat mission.”
Loss of a limb is one of the most common combat injuries. Rehabilitation and getting used to a prosthesis requires daily work. What is normal for ordinary guests — cutting meat, holding a fork — often requires more effort for a person with a prosthetic arm, amputation, or other motor impairments.
Standard tableware is not designed for such needs, which is why inclusive tableware is a necessity. Ordinary cutlery creates barriers:
- food slides off a flat plate and cannot be picked up with one hand;
- thin cutlery handles are very difficult to hold with a prosthesis.
The inability to cope with food causes psychological discomfort and may even force people to avoid visiting public places. Add to this the possibility of PTSD, in which crowds and noise can be triggers. Therefore, this is not only a matter of physical comfort, but also of dignity and a sense of independence.
What is inclusive tableware and how does it work?
Inclusive tableware is ergonomic tableware designed with the needs of people with limited mobility in mind.
An example of successful implementation is the initiative of the Lviv-based Emotion Holding !FEST. In collaboration with the Superhumans rehabilitation center and the Lviv Habilitation Center, the team developed and implemented specialized tableware sets.
Key features:
- The plates have higher sides to prevent food from falling out. An important detail is the special pins on the surface that allow you to secure a piece of food (e.g., meat) and easily cut or pierce it. The bottom of the plate is equipped with silicone pads that prevent slipping.
- Adaptive forks, spoons, and knives have wide, flat handles. This shape allows the utensil to be gripped with a prosthesis or a hand with a weakened grip.
The initiative began with simple assistance. !FEST organized meals for patients at the Superhumans center. There, they saw a real problem: there were adaptive forks, but no plates. The market was empty. Instead of waiting, they decided to take action and launched their own production in their ceramic workshop.
Inclusion in Ukraine: what else restaurants should pay attention
It is worth noting that inclusive tableware is part of a broader accessibility ecosystem. Creating a comfortable environment requires a comprehensive approach. Physical accessibility is the foundation without which any other efforts are meaningless.
The basics of inclusive service:
- Entrance. Make sure there is a convenient ramp, wide doors, and no thresholds.
- Space. Leave enough space between tables for a wheelchair to pass.
- Amenities. Be sure to equip an accessible restroom.
- Respect. Train your staff to be tactful. Always ask first if help is needed, rather than doing something without permission.
Conclusion
Implementing inclusivity in your establishment sends a powerful message to society. It shows that your business is socially responsible and genuinely cares about the comfort of every guest. It does not require major changes, but it radically changes the experience of veterans and other people with special needs.
BRG believes that the Ukrainian hospitality industry has the potential to become a model of inclusivity. Introducing adaptive tableware is a realistic and affordable step that every restaurant can take to show its gratitude and support to those who need it most.
Inclusive tableware is ergonomic tableware designed with the needs of people with limited mobility in mind.