Accessibility statement 

In the following statement, we explain the work we are doing to make our website, content and digital products as accessible to as many people as possible. We have tested our digital products using a variety of tools and screen readers. There are a number of accessibility issues that we are aware of and which we are currently working to address. These are listed in the statement. Please do get in touch with us if you encounter any difficulties when using our site or need content in a different format. We will do all that we can to help to you. Please email enquiries@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk

Known accessibility issues

There are a number of accessibility issues which we are aware of and are currently working to address. These include:

• Colour contrast and font size.
• Some heading elements not being in a sequentially-descending order.
• Some images lacking alternative text.
• Broken links.
• Non-accessible pdfs.
• Non-optimal image types.
• Missing captions for older or outsourced video content.
• Some missing landmarks.
• Some breadcrumbs not having proper list structure.
• Some video content without audio description.
• Some elements within the DS Self-Assessment environment don’t receive keyboard focus.
• Some features, such as forms, videos, and events are hosted by third-party providers. We regularly review our third party providers to make sure we are offering the most accessible services and the accessible options. But accessibility remains limited by the policies and product updates put in place by these providers.

How are we addressing these issues?

We are working to address these issues in a number of ways. These include:

• Offering documents in alternative formats, and routinely replacing inaccessible PDF documents with accessible HTML pages.
• Creating new video content.
• Replacing images.
• Making sure all non-decorative images have alternative text.
• Replacing broken links and using meaningful link text.
• Updating headings/meaningful sequence.
• Reviewing color contrast and font size.
• Adding purposeful link descriptors.
• Creating programmatically determined name, role and property.
• Ensuring error identification is meaningful and accurate.
• Creating accessible navigation and consistency.
• Involving external auditors and steering groups in the development and user testing of our new digital products. Many accessibility issues relate to older content.
• Launching a new site in September 2024, which allows us to offer more accessibility features.
• Implementing Continuous Improvement (CI) and roadmaps to ensure continuous enhancement of the user experience and accessibility of our digital products.

Feedback and how to report accessibility problems with our website or microsites

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have suggestions for improvements or problems using our website or microsites including where we have indicated that the functionality is provided by a third party. We take all feedback onboard and will work with our partners to ensure your experience is as accessible as we can make it.

How to request content in a different format

If you need any of our online content in a different format, please contact enquiries@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk clearly indicating:

• Content title and the website address (URL) if relevant.
• Your name and email address.
• The type of format you need.

Further help 

We have tried to make our website as usable as possible for everyone, but there are also a number of tools available to help making browsing all websites easier.

• We recommend that you visit the RNIB website for specialist advice such as alternative screen readers, screen magnifiers and other devices that are available and can make using a computer easier and more enjoyable.
• AbilityNet’s excellent My Computer My Way web site provides a wealth of advice on setting up your computer in the way that best suits you. AbilityNet also provide a free service to individuals with disabilities to assess their computing needs (call them free on 0800 269 545 for more information). 
• Our networks and members include experts in accessibility, so if you require advice or assistance in improving the accessibility of your website – or other IT systems or services – please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will put you in touch with them. 

Preparation of this accessibility statement 

This statement was last reviewed and updated on 18 September 2024.

Accessibility definition and commitment 

Business Disability Forum is committed to accessibility for everyone in the following areas:

• How people approach our buildings, get into, move around and leave.
• How people access and use our products, services and facilities.
• How we communicate both internally and externally.
• For our employees.

We are always open to suggestions for accessibility improvements and any issues reported to us will be responded to quickly. Please email enquiries@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk

If you require this content in a different format, contact enquiries@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk.