Accessible Information Standard (2024)

FAQs

How do you make sure you meet the accessible information standard answer? ›

Be able to contact, and be contacted by, services in accessible ways, for example via email or text message. Receive information and correspondence in formats they can read and understand, for example in audio, braille, easy read or large print.

The Accessible Information Standard is a law which aims to make sure people with a disability or sensory loss are given information they can understand, and the communication support they need.

Give the reader a good idea of what the text is about before they start reading. Be specific and detailed enough to give non-readers an idea of the main points made in the text. Assist the reader in case the text proves difficult or some words cannot be understood. Make the text look less intimidating.

communication needs. There are a number of exclusions to the scope of the Standard, as listed in section 5.6 of the NHS England specification8. These include the provision of information in foreign languages, the design of signage, corporate communications and the accessibility of websites.

There are four main guiding principles of accessibility upon which WCAG has been built. These four principles are known by the acronym POUR for perceivable, operable, understandable and robust.

An example of accessibility for people with disability can be seen in the design of buildings. In many countries, buildings have an accessibility code, which requires that buildings be designed with accessibility in mind, including features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible washrooms.

Recording of needs in such a way that they are 'highly visible'. Where individuals have information and / or communication needs relating to or caused by a disability, impairment or sensory loss: Such information MUST be recorded as part of the individual's first or next interaction with the service.

The Standard is expected to benefit everyone with information and/or communication needs relating to a disability or sensory loss, including people who have a learning disability, who are d/Deaf, blind or deafblind, who have some hearing or visual loss, aphasia, autism or a mental health condition which affects their ...

What is an example of accessibility requirements? ›

Examples of accessible formats include audio, braille, large print, tactile graphics, and digital text conforming with accessibility standards.

Making health and social care information accessible

The Standard sets out a specific, consistent approach to identifying, recording, flagging, sharing and meeting the information and communication support needs of patients, service users, carers and parents with a disability, impairment or sensory loss.

There are five requirements of the standard we must follow to ensure that people using our services receive information in a way they can access and understand: Identifying needs: ask people if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet their needs.

You can also use accessibility patterns, such as keyboard navigation, color contrast, text alternatives, captions, transcripts, and labels. Designing for inclusivity will help you create a system that is easy to use, understand, and adapt for everyone.

Accessible information: information which is able to be read or received and understood by the individual or group for which it is intended. Alternative format: information provided in an alternative to standard printed or handwritten English, for example large print, braille or email.