A public-facing web accessibility statement serves as a formal declaration of your company’s commitment to making your website and digital content accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. It communicates your organization’s dedication to complying with accessibility standards and regulations, outlines the measures taken to achieve web accessibility, and provides users with information on how to report accessibility issues or seek assistance. There are many approaches to creating a web accessibility statement. Here are some key components to include in a comprehensive public-facing web accessibility statement:
Statement of Commitment
The statement should begin with a clear and concise statement of the organization’s commitment to web accessibility. This statement should emphasize the company’s dedication to ensuring equal access and usability for all users, regardless of their disabilities.
Applicable Standards
Specify the accessibility standards to which the organization adheres. These typically include internationally recognized guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 or 2.1 at a specific conformance level (e.g., Level AA).
Scope and Application
Clarify the scope of the statement and its application to all digital content and services offered by the organization. This includes websites, web applications, mobile apps, multimedia content, and other digital offerings.
Disclose the use of third-party elements where accessibility might be outside of your control. The default accessibility policy provided in the A11y Center includes an optional third-party disclosure.
Responsibility and Accountability
Identify the roles and responsibilities within the organization for implementing and maintaining web accessibility. This may involve assigning specific individuals or teams responsible for accessibility initiatives. For more information, see our tips on assigning an accessibility advocate.
Accessibility Features and Accommodations
Describe the accessibility features and accommodations provided to ensure equal access to digital content and services. Include information about keyboard navigation, alternative text for images, captions for multimedia, focus indicators, and other relevant accessibility enhancements.
Ongoing Improvement
Emphasize the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement in web accessibility. Highlight that accessibility efforts will be regularly monitored, evaluated, and updated to ensure compliance with evolving accessibility standards and best practices.
Training and Awareness
Describe the organization’s efforts to train employees and stakeholders on web accessibility. This training can help raise awareness and ensure that digital content creators and developers understand the importance of accessibility.
Accessibility Testing and Audits
Explain the process of conducting regular accessibility testing and audits to identify and address accessibility barriers. This may involve using automated testing tools, manual testing, and engaging individuals with disabilities in user testing.
Feedback and Reporting
Provide clear instructions on how users can report accessibility issues or provide feedback related to web accessibility. Include contact information, such as an email address or phone number dedicated to handling accessibility-related inquiries.
Timeline and Implementation Plan
If applicable, include a timeline or implementation plan detailing the organization’s approach to achieving full web accessibility compliance. This can demonstrate a proactive approach to accessibility.
Accessibility Conformance Statement
If available, include an Accessibility Conformance Statement detailing the level of compliance achieved with the chosen accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG conformance level AA).
Review and Updates
Specify the review frequency for the accessibility statement and indicate that the statement will be updated as needed to reflect any changes in accessibility practices or regulations.