Accessible websites
People access websites through a variety of methods -- some use the keyboard or mouse only, while others may use screenreaders, voice input, magnification tools etc.
Web accessibility means designing websites so that all users, whatever their preferred method of interaction, can access all the functionality on an equivalent basis.
See below for helpful tips on making your website accessible.
The tips cover:
- colour contrast
- alt text
- meaningful links
- heading structure
- plan language
- keyboard access
- forms
- error messaging
- landmarks
- publishing
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) serve as a set of established principles for digital accessibility.
The Guidelines are the ideal starting point to evaluate your accessibility progress.
The Guidelines are grouped into sections that check your site is Perceivable, Operable, Understandable and Robust.
The current recommended version to work to is WCAG 2.2 Level AA.
We recommend adding an accessibility statement to your website.
This informs users:
- What level of the WCAG the site is aiming to meet.
- Known issues where you do not meet that standard.
- Known workarounds and tips for your visitors
- A contact address where accessibility issues may be reported
Monitor the contact address – it is the first point of call for improvement.
