You’ll need to:
- carry out an evaluation of how accessible your websites and mobile apps are
- fix accessibility problems (when you’re required to do so)
- publish a statement saying what’s accessible, what’s not – and why
This should have been done by 23 September 2019 for newer websites (those published later than 22 September 2018). There are later deadlines for older websites and mobile apps.
UPDATE
They will assess a sample of public sector websites and apps initially. The aim of monitoring is to help and encourage the public sector to make timely improvements to websites and apps – making them accessible to as many people as possible and avoiding the need for enforcement.
The sample will be chosen based on a number of factors, including:
- how many people risk being excluded
- where there are known or suspected problems (for example, because there have been complaints)
If the monitoring team discovers accessibility problems with a website or app in the sample, they will notify the website or app owner and signpost them to support to help resolve the problems.
This monitoring team will be overseen by the Cabinet Office and supported by an independent panel of stakeholders.
Assuring compliance with the regulations will, in part, fall within the existing enforcement powers of the Equality Advisory & Support Service, the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
GDS – acting on behalf of the Minister for the Cabinet Office – will assess whether accessibility statements meet legal requirements.
The Equality Advisory & Support Service provides individuals with information about discrimination and their rights as users of public services.
What’s next
Most public sector organisations will want to consider getting help from an external accessibility expert to evaluate their websites and apps.
If you need advice get in touch and we can try and advise/help you.
