Accessibility, in its broadest sense, ensures that everyone, regardless of their abilities or circumstances, can access and use a product, service, or environment.
In the digital world, accessibility is achieved when designers and developers create websites, software, and applications that offer a seamless experience for users with visual, auditory, cognitive, or motor impairments - just as they do for everyone else.
This type of development holds immense social and ethical value, promoting equal opportunities and reducing discrimination by enabling full participation in society.
From a business perspective, failing to meet accessibility standards presents reputational risks, as well as financial and legal consequences. Businesses should understand the importance of accessibility and integrate it into their products and services to ensure compliance and inclusivity.
While the European Accessibility Act (EAA) comes into effect in June 2025, it does not directly impact British businesses unless they sell to the EU market. The directive aims to harmonise accessibility requirements across EU nations, primarily affecting sectors such as consumer electronics, banking services, media and communication, transport, and e-commerce.
UK companies serving customers within the EU must ensure their products and services meet EAA standards to avoid financial penalties, exclusion from public procurement opportunities, and potential removal from the EU market.
Read more about the European Accessibility Act here.
For public sector organisations within the UK, a different set of accessibility regulations apply, governed by The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications No. 2) Accessibility Regulations Act 2018.
Ensuring accessibility in public sector websites and mobile applications is crucial, as these platforms provide essential services that many individuals rely on daily, particularly those with disabilities or impairments. The UK government has set out clear guidance on how public sector organisations must implement accessibility standards to create inclusive digital experiences.
Common Accessibility Challenges
Many public sector websites do not currently meet accessibility requirements, leading to difficulties for users with disabilities. Common issues include:
To help resolve these problems, the UK Government Digital Service (GDS) has outlined accessibility requirements for public sector organisations, which must be followed to achieve compliance and improve usability.
Full government guidance can be found here.
Since 23 September 2018, UK public sector organisations have been required to make their websites and apps accessible by ensuring they are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust. Compliance is outlined in the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) (No. 2) Accessibility Regulations 2018, which builds on existing obligations under the Equality Act 2010.
Public sector organisations must:
Public sector bodies must ensure compliance or risk breaking the law. Accessibility is not optional, and failure to meet these regulations could result in legal consequences.
Who Must Comply?
All UK public sector bodies must adhere to accessibility regulations unless exempt. These include:
Mobile apps developed for general public use must also comply, whereas apps built exclusively for employees or students are not covered under these regulations.
Businesses and organisations must adhere to different accessibility regulations depending on their operations and audience. UK public sector bodies, such as government organisations, publicly funded charities, and essential service provider must comply with the Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations Act 2018 which requires them to meet WCAG 2.2 Standards and publish an accessibility statement.
On the other hand, British businesses selling to the EU market must adhere to the European Accessibility Act, which mandates accessibility requirements across sectors such as consumer electronics, banking, media, transport, e-commerce. Understanding these regulations ensures compliance, avoids penalties, and promotes inclusitivity.
See full details on which organisations must comply here.
As technology continues to shape our interactions with public services, ensuring accessibility is a legal requirement - rather than an optional feature. By following the guidance set out by the UK government, organisations can ensure their websites and applications are welcoming, inclusive, and compliant.
