Accessibility in this context means enabling access to technology irrespective... not of anything, but of everything.  Different aspects of technology will be easier than others to enable and different people will be enabled in different ways.

There are standards laid down for the web, but this is only a part of technology enablement.  There are specific organistions tasked with promoting this enablement and they provide many tools and ideas to help you along.

This page will give you some ideas and signpost you to some of these resources.

The ICT hub has a good publication and Abilitynet provides a wealth of information.

Google search prioritising accessible sites.

In terms of web accessibility the W3C lays down specific defining parameters and offers you the opportunity to test your web page.  However, compliance is only one objective.  Your organisation should have a policy which it applies to all aspects of the technology it deploys.  The BBC have a comprehensive Accessibility checklist for example. However,  fixing one element of accessibility should not be regarded as a solution. Does your organisation have a plain English policy and are you offices compliant under the DDA?

The point is that if your organisation acknowledges accessibility and wants to set a standard, then it should apply to the technology as well (hearing loops, telephone system, computer adaptation as appropriate, eye tests, integration to Health and Safety - e.g. RSI responsibiities, peripheral adaptations - e.g. photocopiers, appropriate training).

• Be Practical
• Set out an Action Plan
• Only tackle small chunks at a time
• Be adaptable
• Listen and respond
• Include accessibility in your specifications

For excellent information and support

AbilityNet helps disabled adults and children use computers and the internet by adapting and adjusting their ICT.