When working in the third sector keeping on top of the law is important but it doesn’t have to be scary. Accessibility legislation that effects the sector is changing and here is a summary of what you need to know.

What Is The Law On Accessibility?

Accessibility law is changing and we think this is a great thing. Websites and apps are being used by more people, and being accessed in more varied ways and on more platforms than ever. It’s important that we can give the best experience possible on all platforms.

The law on accessibility states that resources must now be usable for:

  • Impaired vision
  • Motor difficulties
  • Cognitive impairments or learning disabilities
  • Deafness or impaired hearing

In the UK 1 in 5 people have a disability. Inclusivity is integral to modern society and particularly so in the third sector. Allowing the most amount of people to get involved is great for everyone and this is something that we aspire to.

What Do You Have To Do?

Officially what you have to do is make websites and apps ‘perceivable, operable, understandable and robust’. Which is not as daunting as it sounds!

You must also publish an accessibility statement this must include details of content that doesnt meet accessibility standards. If someone does request this document you must also provide details of why certain aspects of the website do not meet the criteria.

When Do The Changes Happen?

Don’t worry, you will not have to make changes straight away. New websites must be compliant by the 23rd September 2019 which gives us all considerable time to improve our accessibility.

Websites made before 2019 have a years grace period and do not have to be accessible till 23rd September 2020. Native applications must be made accessible by the 23rd June 2021.

Is Anyone Exempt From These Changes?

The changes do not effect everyone;

  • non-government organisations like charities (unless they provide services that are essential to the public or aimed at disabled people).
  • schools or nurseries – except for the content the public need to use their services.
  • public sector broadcasters and their subsidiaries.

Help Understanding Accessibility Law

Depending on the nature of your business/organisation there is a number avenues you can take to get advice about the upcoming changes.

The Government Digital Service is researching what guidance and support that public sector organisations need to meet accessibility standards. If you’re interested in taking part in this research, contact accessibility-research@digital.cabinet-office.gov.uk.

How TeamKinetic Can Help?

If you require any further information please click here for the full government regulations of what exactly the accessibility laws entail.

If you are looking for a volunteer management system that will be fully compliant with the accessibility law changes look no further than TeamKinetic. We have been working hard on our 1.3 release to improve the accessibility for our volunteers.

Visit Our website here https://teamkinetic.co.uk/ Or give us a call on 0161 914 5757 to find out more about how we can help you. You can also reach out to us on our social media channels:

Twitter: @TeamKineticUK

Facebook: @TeamKineticUK

LinkedIn: @TeamKinetic

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