Accessibility in a Digital-First World

Sophie Stevens | 10 May 2021

"We're living in a digital-first world in so many aspects of our lives. People with disabilities or impairments often rely on them more than most. Key activities such as shopping and banking need to be inclusive or people will not only be left behind but potentially even left without food or money to buy it," - AbilityNet's Head of Digital Accessibility Robin Christopherson highlights one of the key considerations for accessibility in a digital age, in advance of his upcoming talk as part of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD).

Celebrating 10 years of GAAD

GAAD was founded to get everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital accessibility and inclusion for people with different health conditions and impairments. Ten years on from the first GAAD, Robin will be presenting at Texthelp's free Festival of Accessibility on 20th May.

Robin Christopherson shown with illustrations of fireworks in the background. Text reads: Festival of Accessibility, Accessibility, Usability and Inclusion - What's the difference? The Future of A11y 20th May 2021, 1015.- 10.45 AM, 3.35 - 4.30pm BST.

In his session, titled, 'Accessibility, Usability, and Inclusion - what’s the difference?' Robin will delve into digital accessibility further and explore topics including:

  • What an online experience that’s ‘Accessible, usable and inclusive’ looks like
  • How organisations can build all three into their digital platforms
  • Advice on overcoming common barriers to inclusion

Robin will also be part of a panel session where he will discuss the future of accessibility. The sessions will air from 10.15am to 10.45am and at 3.35pm to 4.30pm BST.

Poster reads: Festival of Accessibility. Zenab will be speaking on the session: Accessibility law and how to check your website for the top 5 WCAG errors, from 1.15pm to 2.10pm. Includes image of Zenab Khan.

Another expert from AbilityNet, Accessibility and Usability Consultant Zenab Khan, will be speaking on the TextHelp session: Accessibility law and how to check your website for the top 5 WCAG errors, from 1.15pm to 2.10pm.

GAAD co-founders share their experiences

Robin recently spoke with the co-founders of GAAD, Jennison Asuncion and Joe Devon in AbilityNet's Accessibility Insights webinar, where they had an insightful discussion around the rise of hybrid events. Watch the webinar playback to find out more about GAAD directly from its co-founders. 

GAAD co-founders and Robin Christopherson discuss accessible events at AbilityNet's Accessibility Insights webinar

Need help with making your products and services accessible? AbilityNet can help. We offer a variety of products and services including expert consultancy, accessibility auditing, diverse user testing, bespoke training and off-the-shelf tools and resources.

Further Resources