Accessibility Statement

1. Accessibility Standards

We aim to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at Level AA. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities and create a better user experience for everyone.

2. Current Accessibility Features

2.1 Navigation and Structure

• Clear and consistent navigation throughout the platform
• Logical heading structure (H1, H2, H3, etc.)
• Skip-to-content links for keyboard users
• Breadcrumb navigation on complex pages
• Descriptive page titles

2.2 Visual Design

• High contrast color schemes meeting WCAG requirements
• Text size can be increased up to 200% without loss of functionality
• No reliance on color alone to convey information
• Sufficient spacing between interactive elements
• Focus indicators for keyboard navigation

2.3 Interactive Elements

• All interactive elements are keyboard accessible
• Form fields have clear labels and instructions
• Error messages are descriptive and actionable
• Buttons and links have descriptive text
• Time limits can be extended when necessary

2.4 Content and Media

• Images include alternative text descriptions
• Videos include captions and transcripts where applicable
• Content is written in plain language
• Complex information includes multiple formats
• Documents are provided in accessible formats

2.5 Technical Features

• Semantic HTML markup for screen readers
• ARIA labels and landmarks for complex interfaces
• Responsive design for various devices and screen sizes
• Compatible with assistive technologies
• No auto-playing media with sound

3. Assistive Technology Compatibility

Our platform is designed to work with commonly used assistive technologies, including:

• Screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, ORCA, VoiceOver)
• Voice recognition software (Dragon NaturallySpeaking)
• Screen magnification software (ZoomText, MAGic)
• Alternative keyboards and pointing devices
• Browser accessibility features

4. Browser and Device Support

We test our platform for accessibility on:

• Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge (latest versions)
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
• Devices: Desktop computers, tablets, smartphones
• Screen readers: NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver, TalkBack

5. Known Limitations

While we strive for full accessibility, some areas may have limitations:

• Some third-party content may not be fully accessible
• Certain interactive maps may have limited screen reader support
• Some legacy documents may not meet current accessibility standards
• Complex data visualizations may require alternative formats

We are actively working to address these limitations and improve accessibility across all areas of our platform.

6. Accessibility Testing

We regularly test our platform for accessibility through:

• Automated accessibility scanning tools
• Manual testing with keyboard navigation
• Screen reader testing
• User testing with people with disabilities
• Third-party accessibility audits
• Ongoing monitoring and improvements

7. Training and Awareness

Our team receives regular training on:

• Accessibility best practices and guidelines
• Using accessibility testing tools
• Understanding different types of disabilities
• Creating inclusive content and designs
• Legal requirements and compliance

8. Feedback and Reporting

We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of our platform. If you encounter accessibility barriers, please contact us:

When reporting an accessibility issue, please include:

• The specific page or feature affected
• The assistive technology you are using
• Your browser and operating system
• A description of the problem
• Any error messages you encountered

9. Response Timeline

We are committed to responding to accessibility feedback promptly:

• Acknowledgment: Within 2 business days
• Investigation: Within 5 business days
• Resolution or workaround: Within 15 business days for simple issues
• Complex issues: Timeline provided within 15 business days

10. Alternative Formats

If you need information from our platform in an alternative format, we can provide:

• Large print documents
• Audio recordings
• Braille materials (upon request)
• Plain text versions
• Electronic formats compatible with screen readers

11. Ongoing Improvements

We are continuously working to improve accessibility through:

• Regular accessibility audits and assessments
• User feedback integration
• Staff training and awareness programs
• Technology updates and improvements
• Collaboration with accessibility experts
• Monitoring of emerging accessibility standards

12. Legal Compliance

Our accessibility efforts align with:

• UK Equality Act 2010
• Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA
• European Accessibility Act
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - for US users

13. Third-Party Content

Some content on our platform may be provided by third parties. While we encourage our partners to maintain accessibility standards, we cannot guarantee the accessibility of all third-party content. If you encounter issues with third-party content, please report it to us and we will work with the relevant parties to address concerns.

14. Updates to This Statement

We review and update this accessibility statement regularly to reflect our ongoing efforts and improvements. Changes to this statement will be communicated through:

• Updates to this page with a new “last updated” date
• Notifications to users who have requested accessibility accommodations
• General announcements for significant improvements