The internet can provide access to information on an unprecedented scale. Sitting in the comfort of our own homes we can simply press a couple of keys, and hey presto, we have found out about the festival, chosen which performers we want to see and booked the tickets. Fabulously accessible?
Sadly, the reality is less wonderful. In April 2004 the Disability Rights Commission commissioned a survey of a large and representative sample of websites used by the British public, and found that no less than 81% of sites failed to meet the most basic standards in web accessibility.
Where a website is part of the service provision of any organization, the delivery of the service is covered by Part III of the DDA. Where the website itself constitutes the primary medium for delivery of services, it is of the utmost importance that the site is accessible. Therefore, all arts providers should check out their website access, and ensure that any problems are addressed.
The Disability Rights Commission have worked with the British Standards Institute to develop PAS 78, a document which outlines good practice in commissioning websites which are accessible to disabled people. PAS 78 can be downloaded from the Equality and Human Rights commission website
PAS 78 is also available to purchase from the BSI Shop website and BSI Customer Services in the following formats: large print, easy read, audio, Braille, DAISY and Welsh. Telephone: +44 (0)20 8996 9001, Email: cservices@bsi-global.com
Website access for people with learning difficulties: Mencap's website
Website access for people with dyslexia: British Dyslexia Association Style Guide
Website access for blind and visually impaired people: RNIB Web Access Centre
