Making content inclusive for Independent Age
Independent Age charity was keen to review the technology-related information in the 'Tech hub' section of its website, so began looking for an external reviewer that could provide knowledge and expertise in tech and digital.
As Independent Age supports older people, accessibility was also a major priority.
"We wanted to make sure the information we provide is suitable for people just starting out with technology, and allows them to become more comfortable with it and grow confidence at their own pace," says Cam Howe, Writer and Editor at Independent Age. "For these two reasons, AbilityNet were the perfect people to review our Tech hub," he continues.
Content review process
AbilityNet Disability Consultant, Alex Barker, worked with Independent Age on reviewing the content.
"Working with Alex was a great process," says Cam.
Before the review of the content began, Alex and Cam had detailed discussions so that Alex could make sure AbilityNet would be able to complete the update in the way Independent Age required.
Alex would review Independent Age's content in Word format in batches of three, and make tracked changes.
“I reviewed the existing resources to make sure the information was still current. Technology is ever evolving and it is hard to keep up with it. These webpages have now been updated to reflect the latest technological advances,” says Alex.
"AbilityNet was also very patient and flexible in terms of deadlines," says Cam. "Alex regularly kept me updated with how the work was going and when I could expect pages back from him. I also found Alex’s notes clear and easy to understand," continues Cam.
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Inclusive practice at Independent Age
Accessibility is a major priority for Cam's Information team, in which he helps to create and update both physical and digital advice material for older people.
"It’s important to consider how you can be accessible to all – whether that’s by adding audio versions of material, or making the layout of pages clearer and more accessible," says Cam.
The team creates digital and audio versions of its products, and copyedits to make sure all material is in Plain English.
AbilityNet's input helped Independent Age get a better understanding of the barriers that disabled people can experience. "It’s reassuring to work with people who clearly have expertise and knowledge around the subject of accessible technology," Cam says.
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How accessibility improvements can continue
Independent Age plans to continue making improvements to its website outside of the Tech hub section, so that the content is inclusive and the site is more easily accessible.
"We’re always looking to improve the accessibility of our information, and regularly contact our Readers Panel (a group of older people who provide guidance on our material) for their thoughts. Building on our work on our Tech hub, we are also working with our corporate partner, Vodafone, to offer more support to older people on how to get digitally confident," says Cam.
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