To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what steps the Government is taking to help ensure digital (a) inclusion and (b) accessibility for people with disabilities online.
Answered on
11 September 2023
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is responsible for coordinating His Majesty’s Government’s digital inclusion policy and aims to ensure that as many people as possible, no matter their age, can overcome the barriers of digital inclusion and make the most of digital opportunities. The Government is working to remove barriers and ensure that online services are as inclusive as possible by making public sector websites accessible to as many people as possible.
The accessibility regulations ensure that websites and mobile apps are designed to be perceivable, operable, understandable and robust. Furthermore, assisted digital support services aim to increase digital inclusion for those online users who lack digital confidence, digital skills or access to the internet.
We also recognise that ongoing support is essential to overcome barriers of access. Through DCMS, our network of 2,900 public libraries across England provide a trusted network of accessible locations with staff, volunteers, free wifi, public PCs, and assisted digital access to a wide range of digital services. Charities such as Age UK and AbilityNet play an important role in assisting people with access to technology and the internet.
The Government also understands the impact of poorly designed apps and websites, which do not take people with disabilities into account. That is why, Cabinet Office’s Central Digital and Data Office regularly monitors compliance with the regulations for the accessibility of public sector websites.