We are committed to making our website more accessible and easier to use for everyone. This accessibility statement explains our current approach to digital access and the steps we take to support people with different needs, devices, and browsing preferences. Our aim is to provide an inclusive experience that is usable for as many visitors as possible, including people who rely on assistive technologies or prefer non-mouse interaction. We recognise that accessibility is an ongoing responsibility, and we continue to review and improve the site where possible.

The site is designed with the goal of meeting WCAG 2.1 AA requirements. This means we work to support perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust content across key areas of the website. We strive to use clear structure, readable text, meaningful headings, and consistent interaction patterns. In practice, this helps users navigate content more confidently and supports a better experience for people using screen readers, keyboard-only browsing, zoom tools, or other assistive features.

We also aim to support screen-reader compatibility by ensuring that page content is presented in a logical order, with headings used to organise information and text alternatives provided where appropriate. Images, labels, and interactive elements should be readable in a way that makes sense without relying solely on visual presentation. Where content depends on meaning, we work to describe it clearly and avoid unnecessary complexity. We use accessible structure to help users move through pages in a predictable way.

Keyboard Navigation and Usability

Keyboard navigation is an important part of accessible website design. We aim for the site to be usable without a mouse, allowing users to move through links, menus, forms, and other controls using the keyboard alone. Focus indicators should remain visible so users can see where they are on the page. We also work to reduce obstacles such as poorly ordered tab stops, hidden interactive content, or components that cannot be reached using standard keyboard commands.

In addition to keyboard access, we try to keep the site layout clear and consistent. This supports people with mobility differences, attention-related needs, and those who prefer structured browsing. We recognise that an accessible website is not only about compliance; it is also about making everyday tasks simpler and more dependable for a wider range of people. Where possible, we use plain language and avoid overly dense formatting that can make content harder to follow.

Our accessible website approach also includes reviewing colour contrast, spacing, and readable type choices. These features can help users with low vision or cognitive differences engage with content more comfortably. We understand that accessibility improvements may need to be applied over time as new pages, components, or design changes are introduced. For this reason, we consider accessibility during updates and ongoing maintenance rather than treating it as a one-time task.

Ongoing Improvements

We regularly assess the site to identify areas that may need improvement. This may include checking content structure, reviewing forms, testing interactive elements, and considering how new pages work with assistive technologies. Our aim is to maintain an experience that remains aligned with modern accessibility expectations, including support for screen-reader users and keyboard navigation. We also look for ways to improve labels, instructions, and navigation paths so that visitors can complete tasks with greater ease.

What We Aim to Support

• Clear page structure with meaningful headings
• Compatibility with screen-reader technology
• Keyboard navigation across key site functions
• Readable text and consistent visual hierarchy
• Accessible form and interactive element behaviour

We acknowledge that some content may not yet be fully optimised in every area, but we are committed to continuous improvement. Accessibility is considered during content creation and updates, and we aim to address barriers as they are identified. This includes making sure the accessible design of the site remains practical, navigable, and understandable for a broad audience.

If you experience any difficulty accessing content on this website, or if you need a page in a different format, you can make an accessibility request. We welcome requests for support related to navigation, reading content, understanding forms, or using site features in a more accessible way. When you contact us, please describe the issue clearly and include the page or feature involved so we can investigate it effectively.

We review accessibility concerns with the aim of responding constructively and improving the user experience where possible. Requests may help us identify issues that were not evident during routine checks. This process supports our ongoing commitment to a more inclusive digital experience and helps us strengthen the overall accessibility of the website.

We want visitors to know that this statement reflects our current commitment to accessibility and our intention to continue improving. As the website changes, we will review how well it supports WCAG 2.1 AA principles and whether further refinements are needed. We value accessible content and design because it helps more people access information independently and with confidence.

Accessibility is an essential part of our website experience, and we will continue working to improve it. By focusing on screen-reader support, keyboard navigation, and clear structure, we aim to create a more usable and inclusive environment for all visitors. This statement will be updated when needed to reflect changes in our accessibility approach and the progress we make over time.