Maintaining an accessible website is not just a legal obligation; it’s essential for engaging with your entire community. For town, parish, and community councils, this means making sure that every resident, regardless of ability, can access important information and services online.
Why Accessibility Matters
Legal Requirements
UK law mandates website accessibility, particularly for public sector bodies. Under the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018, councils are required to meet specific accessibility standards to ensure that their websites are usable by everyone.
Community Engagement
An accessible website enhances community engagement by reaching a broader audience. This includes elderly residents, people with disabilities, and anyone who may face barriers when navigating the web. Ensuring your website is inclusive fosters a stronger connection within your community.
Top Accessibility Features Every Council Website Should Have
- Screen Reader Compatibility
To support users who rely on screen readers, it’s crucial to use alt text for images, proper headings, and ARIA labels. These elements help visually impaired users understand and navigate your website’s content. - Keyboard Navigation
Websites should be fully navigable without a mouse. This feature is vital for users with mobility impairments who depend on keyboard-only navigation. - Colour Contrast and Text Size
Readable text and high-contrast colours are essential for those with visual impairments. Ensuring your website meets these standards helps all users easily read and understand your content. - Accessible Documents
When uploading documents such as PDFs, it’s important to follow best practices to ensure they are accessible. This includes using text-based formats and providing clear structure within the document.
How Zonkey Council Websites Can Help
At Zonkey Council Websites, we have over a decade of experience in creating accessible council websites. Our services include comprehensive accessibility audits, redesigns, and ongoing support to ensure your website meets all necessary standards.
Get in touch with us today to arrange for a consultation and accessibility audit or request a quotation.