What is an Accessibility Statement?
An accessibility statement is a document that describes how persons with disabilities can use a website, web-based app, or other digital product or service. It is typically placed on the website or app itself, and it is intended to assist users in understanding how accessible the product or service is, as well as what actions have been made to make it accessible to persons with disabilities.
The Importance of an Accessibility Statement
An accessibility statement is not required by law for websites. However, having one can be beneficial for a variety of reasons:
- It may clarify things and hold people accountable: An accessibility statement can help users understand what actions have been made to ensure the website is accessible, as well as any known accessibility issues or limits.
- It can assist users in determining how to report accessibility issues: A statement on accessibility should tell users how to report any difficulties or request any necessary accommodations. This can make consumers feel more at ease when using the site and assist the site’s owner in making it easier to use.
- It might demonstrate your concern for web accessibility. By providing an accessibility statement, a website owner can demonstrate their concern for accessibility and inclusivity. This is especially crucial for companies looking for accessibility compliance with different regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What an Accessibility Statement Must Include
In an accessibility statement, you should discuss how accessible the product or service is, as well as any known issues or limitations. It should also describe what actions were taken to ensure that the product or service is accessible, such as the use of accessibility standards or guidelines.
An accessibility statement should also tell users how to report any difficulties or request any necessary accommodations. Contact information for the organization or person in charge of ensuring that the product or service is available might also be included.
Accessibility Statement Example
Here’s an example of an accessibility statement:
“We are committed at XYZ Company to ensuring that everyone, including persons with disabilities, can utilize our website and web-based apps. We planned and built our website and apps in accordance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA, and we’ve incorporated a variety of user-friendly features.
However, we recognize that some factors may make it difficult for some people to access our website and apps. If you have any problems accessing or using our website or apps, or if you have any suggestions for making them more user-friendly, please contact us. We’re always searching for ways to improve the usability of our goods and services, and we’d love to hear what you think.”