Updated accessibility guidelines coming soon - Are you ready?

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) exist to make Web content more accessible to people with disabilities including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, language, learning, and neurological disabilities.

Currently the law sets a clear accessibility threshold for public sector bodies; their websites and mobile apps must adhere to criteria found in WCAG 2.1 and publish an accessibility statement listing any areas of their site or app that do not meet these standards. We understand that is a lot of work for our much valued local authority clients and so we are here to help, especially as...

WCAG 2.2 is the latest update currently in draft form and is set for release next month, it aligns with a rapidly changing online world and is an improved version of WCAG 2.1. It does not replace WCAG 2.1 but allows you to build on accessibility work you’ve already done: anything accessible under WCAG 2.1 will also be accessible under WCAG 2.2.

As the guidelines update, now’s the time to ensure you understand new requirements and how to implement the changes within your organisation. There are nine new criteria the working document currently outlines that you should be aware of.
Or if you have recently arranged a WCAG 2.2 accessibility strategy with us, you can relax in the knowledge that web professionals have it all in hand. We’ll be able to perform tests to determine how far your website or app currently meets WCAG 2.2, identify any failures and make a plan to fix problems found. Finally we will generate an accessibility statement for you.

Accessibility testing involves automated and manual audits. To conform with WCAG, you will need both types of test. Each serves a different purpose:

- Automated tests use artificial intelligence (AI) to scan your content for common WCAG failures. However, AI can’t always understand context and many WCAG success criteria require human judgment.

- Manual tests are performed by human accessibility experts like the team here at focusgov. Ideally, manual testing should include people who use screen readers and other assistive technologies.

The majority of our clients have great faith in our many years of experience and depend on us to help them adhere to accessibility regulations. However, should you feel you have the time and resources to do this yourself here is some guidance you may find useful.

Follow the rulebook: WCAG - widely considered to be the international standard for accessibility, it consists of success criteria, pass-or-fail statements that can be used to test for common accessibility barriers.

Start with a clear goal. Most websites and apps should aim for Level AA conformance. To create a sustainable, long-term strategy, take the following steps:

It is so important we all remember that WCAG is not just about legal protection. It’s about making inclusive websites that everyone can use and navigate, no matter their mental or physical ability. This is why accessibility and inclusivity should be top of the agenda in digital strategies for 2023.

If you are ready to improve the accessibility of your digital solutions and meet guidelines then we’re here to help.

Get in touch to make the most of our accessibility expertise.