Accessibility Statement for Our Digital Experience
We are committed to making our digital experience more accessible and usable for everyone. This accessibility statement explains the steps we take to support people with different needs and preferences, including those who use assistive technologies. Our aim is to align the website with WCAG 2.1 AA compliance principles so that content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for a broad range of users. We continually review the way pages, components, and content are built to help reduce barriers and improve the overall experience.
We recognise that accessibility is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing process that involves design, content, development, and testing. As part of this commitment, we work to provide clear structure, readable text, sufficient colour contrast, and accessible interactions. We also seek to make navigation straightforward for people using a keyboard, switch device, or screen reader.
How We Support Accessible Use
Our pages are designed to support keyboard navigation so that users can move through links, buttons, menus, and forms without relying on a mouse. Focus indicators are intended to remain visible, and interactive elements are arranged in a logical order to help users understand where they are on the page. We also aim to ensure that content can be reached and operated through standard keyboard commands.
For users of assistive technology, we work to provide compatibility with common screen-reader support tools. This includes using meaningful headings, descriptive link text, and semantic markup that helps readers interpret the purpose and structure of each page. Images are reviewed to ensure that alternative text is appropriate where needed, and decorative elements are handled in ways that avoid unnecessary noise for non-visual users.
We also pay attention to content presentation. Text is written to be clear and concise, with simple language where possible and consistent formatting to improve readability. Forms and interactive features are created with accessible labels and instructions so that users can understand what is required before submitting information.
Technical Approach and Ongoing Improvements
Our accessibility programme includes regular checks across design and development stages. We test key journeys to identify issues that may affect people who use assistive technologies or alternative input methods. We aim to maintain compatibility with modern browsers and devices while keeping the experience stable and predictable. When issues are identified, they are prioritised for review and improvement.
Accessibility review also includes headings, lists, buttons, and form controls to help support a logical reading order. We use accessible website practices such as clear hierarchy, predictable layout, and accessible name definitions for controls. In addition, we try to avoid unnecessary motion or visual effects that may create difficulties for some users, and we aim to keep content easy to navigate at different zoom levels.
Because accessibility needs can vary, we continue to learn from audits and internal testing. We understand that some content may still require improvement, and we treat such issues as part of an active enhancement process. Where possible, we make adjustments to improve access for all users, including those with temporary, situational, or permanent disabilities.
Compatibility, Limits, and Standards
Current Commitment
We strive to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards across the site, including text alternatives, colour contrast, keyboard access, and readable content structure. While many areas have been improved with accessibility in mind, some content may occasionally fall short of ideal standards as we continue to refine the experience. Our team reviews these areas and works toward better compliance over time.
Accessibility is considered in the planning and updating of digital content so that users can access information in a more inclusive way. This includes attention to headings, lists, emphasis, and the correct use of semantic elements. Where relevant, accessible navigation patterns are used to help people move through the experience efficiently.
We understand that certain assistive technologies may interact differently with different devices, browsers, or operating systems. For that reason, we aim to build with robust techniques that reduce dependency on a single method of access. This helps support users who rely on screen readers, magnification, keyboard-only input, or other assistive tools.
Requests for Accessibility Support
If you encounter an accessibility issue, need content in a different format, or would like to request assistance with an accessibility-related matter, please get in touch through the available contact channels provided on the website. Please include a clear description of the page or feature involved and the accessibility barrier you experienced so we can investigate and respond appropriately.
We welcome requests that help us improve access for everyone. This may include reporting a problem with screen-reader output, a keyboard focus issue, missing labels, or content that is difficult to understand. We review accessibility requests carefully and use them to prioritise future improvements. Our goal is to support an experience that is as inclusive and accessible as possible for all visitors.
We are committed to continuous improvement and appreciate your patience as we work to enhance the site. By focusing on accessible structure, readable content, and reliable interaction patterns, we aim to create a better digital environment for a wider range of people. Accessibility matters, and we treat it as an essential part of our service.
