How to get a website accessibility statement

Website accessibility means all users, including those with disabilities, can effortlessly navigate, interact with, and shop on your site. A key component of this is having a website accessibility statement.

What is a website accessibility statement?

A website accessibility statement is a public declaration of your commitment to making your site usable for all. It details the steps you’ve taken to enhance accessibility, the guidelines you follow, and how users can report any challenges they face. This statement is vital for building trust with your customers and showing your dedication to inclusivity.

Why is this significant for your ecommerce business? It broadens your customer reach, helps you meet legal requirements, avoids potential legal issues, and simply is the only right way. So, how do you get a website accessibility statement?

Website accessibility statement – how-to

It is important to learn what your website accessibility statement should cover before creating it. A statement usually includes the following: the accessibility guidelines you follow, any known limitations on your site, contact information for reporting issues, and your ongoing efforts to improve accessibility.

Begin by identifying the accessibility standards you adhere to, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These guidelines provide a solid framework for making your website accessible. Mentioning these standards in your statement shows your commitment to recognized best practices.

Next, evaluate your website to spot any accessibility barriers. Be transparent about any areas where your site may not fully meet accessibility standards, and outline your plans for improvement. Honesty is crucial for building trust with your audience.

Use straightforward language, avoiding technical terms that might confuse readers. The goal is to communicate your commitment to accessibility clearly and easily. List all details of the guidelines you follow and any specific measures you’ve implemented to enhance accessibility. 

Your website accessibility statement should also guide users on what to do if they encounter accessibility issues. Provide clear instructions on how to get help or report problems. Encourage users to provide feedback about their accessibility experiences on your site. This feedback is valuable for ongoing improvements and shows your commitment to creating an inclusive online environment.

Don’t forget to regularly review and update your statement to reflect any changes or improvements in your site’s accessibility features. This ongoing commitment helps ensure your site remains accessible to all users.

Consider conducting regular accessibility audits to identify new areas for improvement and update your statement accordingly. This proactive approach demonstrates your dedication to maintaining a high standard of accessibility.

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How do you make your ecommerce website accessible – REALLY?

It’s not enough to write a web accessibility statement without making your website accessible. This goes way beyond legal requirements and technicalities—it’s really important to make your online store accessible to all people, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

We understand that creating and maintaining an accessible website can be challenging. If you need help crafting your website accessibility statement or to make your ecommerce site compliant, our team is here to assist you. Together, we can ensure your online store is welcoming and usable for everyone.