UK: Website Access – Disabling the Barriers

Disabled people have been frozen out by the internet revolution. According to a recent survey by the Office of the eEnvoy more than three out of every four public sector web sites failed to meet access standards for users with disabilities.

Whilst the technology is available to improve the accessibility of sites, it is not a straightforward solution. Blind and partially-sighted users use synthesised speech or Braille display technology to understand text and images on screen. For this technology to work correctly, the site must have good web coding and the correct HTML.

In reality, it is more complicated than simply fixing coding. Navigational tools are often complicated and users can feel disorientated on-line. The use of font designs, colour and images can also cause problems. The prevalence and intrusive nature of on-line advertising often means that users are exposed to irrelevant information, before they reach the content they actually require.

Organisations who fail to ensure that their web sites are accessible could face civil proceedings under the Disability Discrimination Act, potentially resulting in compensation awards for financial loss, and possible injury to feelings. They should therefore :

• be familiar with the key guidelines and make sure they are aware of the barriers to internet accessibility. To comply with the Act, the Office of the E-Envoy recommends that government websites meet the WAI (Web Accessibility Initiative) level A standard specified by the World Wide Web Consortium.
• review websites to evaluate their accessibility.
• ensure all details are up to date and web links are fully functional.
• when selecting web designers ensure they are familiar with the accessibility guidelines and are experienced in designing and maintaining accessible sites.
• ensure website contracts include a clause stating that the designers must comply with the appropriate guidelines.

The internet can be a lifeline for many people with disabilities but unfortunately few sites are designed with the disabled user in mind. For the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) enough is enough. It has recently backed a number of individuals taking legal action against web sites for allegedly failing to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995. And with the publication of a new, revised Code of Practice by the Disability Rights Commission on access to goods, services and premises for disabled people service providers may soon have little choice but to improve accessibility or face the consequences.