This website has been developed with accessibility features in mind in order to provide a better user experience for all. We have closely followed the Seven Principles of Universal Design as well as Accessibility Best Practices.
We would like to highlight the following accessibility features:
Skip Navigation
For keyboard and screen reader users it can be frustrating to get to the main content of a page as one would need to tab through navigation links on each page. By implementing a “Skip Link”, users can skip these elements and jump straight into the content. This is the first link on at the top of the header on all pages. Even though it has been kept invisible, it will be detected by screen readers. If you are not using a keyboard or screen reader but would like to utilise this feature, click the “Tab” button on your keyboard when a new page is opened, a link will appear in the header, then click “Enter”.
Search Function
A search function is provided in the Header and links to all core areas of the site. Pages can also be accessed from the Main Menu in the Header as well as in the links at the Footer.
Contrast
We have ensured that we provide enough contrast between text and its background so that it can be read by people with moderately low vision (who do not use contrast-enhancing assistive technology). We have also, added a tool to enhance contrast when necessary. This is located in the Accessibility Toolbar, at the Footer of the Website.
Zoom/ Font Size
Using, your web browser’s built-in zoom you can expand text size making it easier to read. In Firefox or Chrome, you may use the “Control –” and “Control +” shortcuts to decrease or increase the text size, accordingly. We have also added a tool that lets you increase font size. This is located in the Accessibility Toolbar, at the Footer of the Website.
Alt Text
Unless an image is purely decorative, all images contain Alt Text. Alt Text refers to an invisible description of images which are read aloud to users on a Screen Reader. We use images because they make content more pleasant and easier to understand for many people; more so for those with cognitive and learning disabilities. However, those using Screen Readers can also benefit from images on a page through the use of Alt Text.
Keyboard Users
All navigation and core functionality of the site is accessible to Keyboard Users on desktop.