Scene 5: Documentary Interview with the Head of the Subdistrict Disabled Persons' Federation
More links:
The YouTube playlist for the documentary interviews
Interview Report
In our ongoing effort to better understand accessibility and inclusion, BonVista Accessibility Club of WFLA had the privilege of interviewing **Mr. Chen Yufeng **, the Director of the Disabled Persons’ Federation (DPF) at Kangjian Subdistrict, Xuhui District. As both a person with a disability and a veteran disability services professional, Mr. Chen has devoted nearly 16 years of his life to supporting and advocating for the disabled community.
“My name is Chen Yufeng. I’ve been working in this field ever since I graduated from university, and I find deep fulfillment in seeing people with disabilities receive the services they need.”
Mr. Chen’s dual perspective – as a person with a disability and as a service provider – gives him unique insight and a deep sense of responsibility.
Mr. Chen explained that the China Disabled Persons’ Federation (CDPF) is a people’s organization approved by the State Council. It consists of persons with disabilities, their families, and professionals in the field. While it is organizationally affiliated with the government, it also serves as a policy-implementing and service-providing body.
“It safeguards rights, represents interests, and provides essential services in areas such as employment, education, rehabilitation, cultural participation, and protection of lawful rights.”
He emphasized that China’s core legal framework for disability services is the Law on the Protection of Persons with Disabilities, with local adaptations such as Shanghai’s Implementation Measures. These cover:
Employment and vocational training
Assistive technology
Cultural and sports inclusion
Accessible infrastructure
Additionally, disability classification plays a central role in determining support levels. For example:
Level 1 disabilities: ¥300/month care subsidy
Level 2 or some Level 3: ¥150/month
All persons with disabilities under 65: ¥65/month transportation subsidy
Severely disabled and unemployed: hardship allowances of ¥290–¥410/month
Mr. Chen highlighted the transformational impact of modern technology:
Hearing aids, cochlear implants, and subtitle-converting smart glasses for the hearing-impaired.
Audiobook readers for the blind, allowing them to “read with their ears.”
Smart GPS-enabled wristbands for people with intellectual or mental disabilities, enhancing safety and preventing loss.
“Technology is enabling disabled people to overcome physical and social barriers and participate more fully in society.”
When asked about how persons with disabilities can make their voices heard, Mr. Chen explained that historically, many disabled individuals have been silent due to stigma, introversion, or fear of burdening others. But this is changing:
Platforms like SuiShenBan, YiWangTongBan, and the 12345 hotline now provide accessible channels for requests and feedback.
The 12345 hotline offers real-time sign language translation for the hearing impaired.
Increasing numbers of persons with disabilities serve as political delegates – such as Jin Jing, a well-known disability advocate and member of the Shanghai Municipal People’s Congress.
“We are no longer silent. More and more disabled individuals are stepping forward to advocate for change.”
Employment, Mr. Chen noted, is central to dignity and quality of life:
Federations at the municipal and district levels offer skills training based on industry trends.
Collaboration with companies allows outstanding trainees to be recommended for jobs.
The government provides tax incentives and exemptions to employers who hire disabled workers.
“The more skills you master, the better your chance of succeeding in a competitive job market.”
In Xuhui District, the DPF provides care insurance for persons with disabilities. These plans cover:
Hospitalization, outpatient services, and critical illness.
A ¥60/day payout for hospitalization.
Full reimbursement for both outpatient and inpatient services for unemployed, severely disabled individuals through joint municipal programs.
Mr. Chen described two major types of activities:
Self-organized events for disabled community members with shared interests.
Collaborative, inclusive events with compassionate individuals, institutions, and companies.
“Through these events, disabled people form bonds, and the public gains a deeper understanding of their lives and resilience.”
He spoke highly of the six to seven events held in collaboration with BonVista Accessibility Club over the past year:
“Your school’s activities were truly meaningful. They were a model of social inclusion.”
“Persons with disabilities should actively learn about the world, identify social resources, and reach out – whether to neighborhood committees or social organizations.”
He encouraged disabled individuals to express their desire to integrate into society and take initiative in building accessible environments and joining volunteer efforts.
Mr. Chen had heartfelt words for young people passionate about service:
“First of all, thank you. You represent a new wave of socially responsible citizens.”
He offered three concrete suggestions:
Deepen your knowledge – Stay informed via platforms like WeChat, Weibo, and explore how other organizations operate.
Start locally – Begin with your school and nearby communities, engage with residents, learn their needs, and identify where you can help.
Join existing charities – When you have time, join teams as individuals or small groups, learn from their mature models, and gain real-life experience.
“In time, you can develop your own unique style of service.”