【Saitama Prefecture, Sayama City】Pioneering Training for an Inclusive Counter: Sayama City Holds First-Ever Experiential Workshop for Municipal Staff on Supporting People with Visual Impairments

On June 18, 2026 (Thu), Sayama City hosted a special training session titled 'Supporting People with Visual Impairments,' led by members of the Sayama Association of the Visually Impaired. This inaugural workshop, held at Sayama City Hall, attracted numerous municipal staff who participated to deepen their understanding of practical communication and support techniques.

Background of the Training

In recent years, the needs of citizens visiting city offices have become increasingly diverse, highlighting the importance of creating an accessible and welcoming environment for all. To ensure that people with disabilities can smoothly access municipal services, this training was designed to enhance staff members' understanding of visual impairments and equip them with appropriate support skills.

Highlights of the Training

The instructors were members of the Sayama Association of the Visually Impaired. Rather than relying solely on theoretical instruction, the workshop included experiential learning: participants wore blindfolds and alternated between the roles of 'guide' and 'person being guided,' gaining deep insights into effective support practices.

Instructors Share 'Daily Life with Visual Impairment'

Participants listened to personal stories from the instructors about daily challenges and coping strategies.

Diverse Ways of Seeing

Visual impairment varies greatly—ranging from total blindness to low vision—and each individual experiences it differently. One instructor shared that, to encourage others to offer help when needed, they always maintain a smile and use polite language in daily interactions. This perspective prompted valuable reflection on the fundamental principles of hospitality and what it truly means to create a counter service where everyone feels at ease.

The Effort Behind 'What Can Be Done'

The instructors described daily routines such as always returning seasonings to their designated places and relying on light cues to choose clothing. They also shared that performing everyday tasks often takes about 1.5 times longer than for sighted individuals, and discussed the emotional strain involved in making household decisions. One instructor's heartfelt words—'I've had to learn to accept my limitations'—revealed the profound daily struggles and resilience of people living with visual impairments.

Daily Movement as a 'Mission'

Using trains, elevators, and stairs can feel like a 'mission' for people with visual impairments. During the practical session, instructors shared nuanced, firsthand insights on guiding techniques—such as the importance of standing with one's back against a wall for reassurance, and the significance of whether a chair has a backrest—emphasizing the subtle considerations essential for effective support.

Experiencing 'Not Seeing'—Hands-On Guiding Workshop

Following the lecture portion, participants wore blindfolds and used white canes to experience walking without sight.

Feeling the Anxiety of 'Not Seeing'

Staff members reported profound takeaways: 'I realized how difficult it is to judge angles and distances when turning corners or navigating space.' 'A simple verbal cue can make a huge difference in someone's sense of safety.'

Learning Practical Guiding Techniques

Instructors provided practical, actionable advice—such as natural guiding methods and precise verbal descriptions—that staff can immediately apply in their daily work.

Improving the Quality of Communication

The workshop reinforced the importance of empathetic communication—imagining what the other person needs—regardless of whether they have a disability.

Feedback from Participating Staff

'Experiencing firsthand how challenging it is to walk through an unfamiliar space made me realize the importance of clear guidance. I want to apply this experience directly to our citizen services.'

'This was a rare and invaluable experience. My understanding of the importance and proper use of the white cane has deepened significantly.'

Message from the Instructors

At the end of the training, the instructors offered warm encouragement: 'We hope you will apply what you've learned today in your daily work and personal lives. Today, smartphones, UV light, and other factors pose new threats to eye health. Please take good care of your eyes from now on, using proper protection.'

This training provided a unique opportunity for staff to experience both sides of visual impairment support—guiding and being guided—deepening their appreciation for empathy and perspective-taking in communication.

Source

Sayama City Hall

https://www.city.sayama.saitama.jp/