Read about how you can best access this website; and read our easy tips on how to make your own website accessible:
Keyboard shortcuts (access keys)
You can navigate the website by using keyboard shortcuts, also known as access keys. For example, holding the ‘alt’ key together with ‘v’, then releasing and selecting ‘Enter’, will take you to the Accessibility options page. We write this key as "alt + v, enter".
Skip navigation : alt + s, enter
Site map : alt + 2, enter
Search : alt + 4, enter
Accessibility statement : alt + 0, enter
Viewing options: alt + v, enter
Viewing options
This website has five different viewing options.
- Standard
- Accessible: Large text
- Accessible: Text only - black on white, no images
- Accessible: Text only - white on black, no images
- Accessible: Text only - black on yellow, no images
For screen reader software users, we recommend you to choose either of the text only viewing options, as these options are optimised for the screen reader software.
The text only versions fits the maximum width of your browser and is the best choice if you want to change the font size on the website.
Font re-sizing
To change the font size on this website, either choose an accessible version or modify your browser settings.
To change your browser settings, select "View" from your browser’s toolbar, choose "Text Size" and the sub-menu appears with the text size options. Choose a larger size than your current option (marked with a bullet point).
Navigation
In standard version, the website has the main navigation menu on the left side of the screen. This menu shows the site’s main sections - clicking on a section's link displays sub-section links on the menu. To return to the list of main section links click on 'Sense Home' on top of the webpage.
In the accessible version, the single navigation menu is spilt into three navigation boxes and they are at bottom of the page. The first box called "Your Location in Site Map" lets you know where you are in the site. The second box called "Pages in This Section" shows the links for this section. The third box - "Main Site Sections" shows the navigation menu for main sections of the website.
Reporting problems
If you have a problem accessing the site, please email us about your problem. We will do our best to assist you and solve your problem. Your comments also help us to improve accessibility on our site.
Accessibility guidelines with which the website is complying
We have checked our site against the WCAG checklist, and we believe that every page within our site meets all applicable Priority 1, 2 and 3 checkpoints, and as such, meets the WAI 'AA' requirements.
Tips on how to make your own website accessible
Font
- Use an easy to read font (e.g. Arial)
- The font size must be unlocked to allow users to enlarge it on their web browser via the "View" menu.
Visual and audio content
- If your website uses non-text content such as audio, video or images, always provide a text alternative for users who do not use their screen or who cannot access audio
- Consider using positive images and descriptions of disabled people and when including case studies consider whether it is possible to include an example which relates to the life of a disabled person
- Avoid flashing objects.
Alternative formats
- Offer alternative formats including large print, speech symbols, and easy-read (simpler language)
- If possible, offer a black and white, text-only version with no images.
Applications
- Non screen users frequently experience problems accessing pdf. files and Flash so avoid using these applications. If you do use these applications then always offer an alternative accessible version such as the Notepad application.
Navigation
- Try and avoid pop up windows and where they are used, always ensure users are warned where links open pop up windows
- Try and use headings where possible to structure text content. This helps non screen users to browse through the content
- Make sure that all of the functionality of the website is available via the keyboard as many non screen users will use shortcuts on their keyboard to access information
- Make sure that your website operates in a predictable manner. Always think, “what would I expect to happen next?"
- Make links meaningful and descriptive. For example, 'select here to read my disability policy' ; and not, 'click here'
- Make it easy for users to avoid and correct mistakes.
Presentation
- Make it easy to see and hear content
- Always separate foreground from background and ensure that there is a good colour contrast between text and background
- Avoid underlining content unless it is a hyperlink
- Give people enough time to read and use content
- Do not present content in a way that is known to cause seizures.
Compatibility
- Maximise compatibility with assistive technologies.
For detailed technical advice on web accessibility you can visit the Web Accessibility Initiative Pages here.
Or you can contact the Sense web team at webprojects@sense.org.uk.
