Submitted by Annie Mannion on Sun, 26/05/2024 - 16:38
Would you, or someone you know, like to know more about how the online world enhance your life? A fresh range of short instructional videos aimed at boosting digital skills among older people will help.
AbilityNet and telecommunications company BT Group are working in partnership to help improve the digital skills of older and digitally excluded people across the UK.
As part of this project we are sharing simple digital tips in a new range of 'Bitesize Basics' videos, specifically designed to share step by step, straightforward digital advice with people over 65.
More videos will be added to the series soon, and you can view them all on the playlist on AbilityNet's YouTube channel.
Learn at your leisure
AbilityNet staff and volunteers have already been sharing their skills across the UK at a series of in-person workshops, but the videos enable the learning to expand beyond the towns covered in the project.
"We understand that not everyone can attend a workshop, so these easy to watch up to 10-minute formats offer a great way to watch and practice digital skills at your pace in the comfort of your own home or with friends in a group," says Rob McLean, Digital Inclusion Programme Officer at AbilityNet.
"Older people often face unique challenges when navigating the digital world, from learning new technologies to understanding internet safety. The short duration of these videos reflect a more relaxed learning pace, making digital education less daunting and more accessible," Rob advises.
Free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices
In this free webinar, expert speakers from AbilityNet and BT Group highlight how we can help with your tech queries and provide 121 support.
Each video focuses on key topics, from basic computer use to staying safer online, ensuring that learners receive targeted information without feeling overwhelmed.
This approach empowers fostering independence and confidence in using technology to stay connected, and enables more people to learn how to manage health information, and access essential services.
If you work in an organisation with clients who could benefit from learning about the digital world, please share the videos with them.
AbilityNet's Digital Skills project with BT Group is supporting people 65+ with getting online and using technology, such as:
- learning how to use email - make video calls - use online banking and book medical appointments
Sign up for Free BT Digital Skills sessions for people over 65 in your area. (Available to people in and around London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, the East Coast of Scotland, Newcastle, Cardiff and surrounding areas.)
Congratulations on a decade of service to AbilityNet
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Thu, 23/05/2024 - 16:11
It's Volunteers' Week coming up from 3 - 9 June 2024, and we are delighted to celebrate our wonderful tech volunteers who put so much into their role supporting older and disabled people to use technology and complete online tasks.
Some of our tech volunteers have been working with us for many years With incredible dedication, and it's with great pleasure that we share Long Service Awards with our long-term volunteers.
Two of those volunteers have just reached the 10 year milestone, having provided a decade of much-valued support so far in their region, as part of our free IT Support service. Here they are pictured with their award certificates:
Pat Maskell, Volunteer Coordinator and Tech Volunteer based in Cumbria
"I will be honest. Retirement was not something I looked forward to. Then I found AbilityNet and discovered not only a way of sharing some of the computer skills I had learnt, but also a reason to keep up to date with the ever developing technology.
"So many older and disabled people need help with their devices. Not training courses, just help to do what they are interested in in a Digital World. I discovered my raison d'etre.
"I know I can make a difference with the help of AbilityNet and the fantastic support I and all the volunteers receive from the team."
Colin Davies, Volunteer Coordinator and Tech Volunteer based in Dorset
"Since retiring I've taken on a number of voluntary roles but my time with AbilityNet has been the most fulfilling and longest lasting. There have been so many clients whose determination to master technology and get the most out of life has been truly inspirational," Colin says.
"The need to help the digitally disadvantaged has never been greater and the knowledgeable and dedicated team members past and present here in Dorset - to whom I owe a debt of gratitude - continue to do their best. Thanks are also due to the friendly and supportive management team under Sarah Brain who make the job so much easier. Here's to the next 10 years!"
With huge thanks to both Colin and Pat for their unflailing support of their clients in their region.
Our friendly volunteers are DBS checked and can assist you by phone, over the internet or at home. They offer one to one support tailored to you, at your pace.
Volunteers are able to help with most computer systems, laptops, tablets, smartphones and other smart devices such as Smart TVs, Alexa speakers and Google Home devices.
Free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices
Learn how technology can provide a helping hand to disabled people and older people.
Expert speakers from AbilityNet and BT Group highlight how we can help with your tech queries and provide 121 support.
Could you dedicate any time to helping older or disabled people in your community?
We're always keen to welcome new tech volunteers so if you're reading this and would like to get involved, please get in contact.
Some recent comments from our volunteers about what they enjoy about their roles:
"So rewarding, doing what I love and seeing people benefit, sometimes life changing, sometimes just making a client's life a bit easier, a bit more fun, a bit less isolated."
"I've done things out of my comfort zone. I get the support I need and reap the benefits of increasing my skills and confidence."
Learn essential digital skills for free in Cardiff
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Thu, 16/05/2024 - 10:32
Navigating the online world can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure about searching for information, figuring out which websites to trust, or understanding how your digital device works.
If you're 65 years old or over, live in Cardiff or nearby, and are eager to improve your digital skills, AbilityNet can help!
Join AbilityNet in partnership with BT Group for upcoming free digital skills sessions in Cardiff.
Expert Digital Skills Trainer, Lucy Walsh (pictured, below) and the BT team will be your guide at these engaging sessions.
What can I expect during the sessions?
The sessions are designed to address any tech concerns you might have, and empower you with the skills needed to navigate the digital world safely and with confidence.
Our trainer is dedicated to providing personalised assistance, answering any questions you may have, and helping you become more comfortable with your digital device and the online world.
Tea and biscuits will be available during the sessions too.
Free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices
In the webinar with AbilityNet speakers alongside BT Group, you'll discover:
- Simple ways to learn how to use your devices - Tips for assistive technology that can help with hearing, visual, motor and cognitive impairments - including accessing and using the tools that are already present on many common digital devices - How to get help where you live from an AbilityNet or BT Group volunteer
You can also call our helpline on 0300 180 0028* during UK office hours to register.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to boost your digital skills!
What previous session attendees say:
• "At 93 your service was and is of great help to me and my generation" • "I was so impressed with the trainer, who listened and really helped a lot" • "Very easy to ask questions and receive simple answers" • "It is really the course I needed. I learn something new every week" • "It is very excellent. It gives me more hope to do some things that I wouldn't do before"
About Lucy Walsh, BT Digital Skills Trainer, AbilityNet
Lucy recently joined AbilityNet on our BT Digital Skills project, providing digital confidence training to clients in the Cardiff area. Her previous roles have included being a trainer and coach in both the Financial and Third Sectors, notably for Lloyds TSB, Save the Children and Royal British Legiion.
I don't live in Cardiff, how can I get digital skills help?
If you're over 65 years of age and looking to build your skills, we're offering free digital skills sessions in London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, the East Coast of Scotland, Newcastle, Cardiff and surrounding areas.
Trainers can build something bespoke for your group or for an individual and run sessions including:
Free webinar: Dementia and simple tech tweaks that can help - with Alzheimer's Society
Watch back our FREE webinar with our experts from AbilityNet and Alzheimer's Society, who will share helpful tips on adjustments to tech that can make a big difference to those with dementia, Alzheimer's and cognitive disabilities.
*Please note: calls to our helpline number cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number and count towards any inclusive minutes in the same way as 01 and 02 calls, and AbilityNet does not receive any money from these calls
9 ways to promote accessibility for Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2024
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Wed, 08/05/2024 - 18:13
Coming soon: the 13th annual Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) takes place on Thursday, 16 May 2024.
GAAD drives accessibility focus
GAAD offers a great opportunity to promote digital accessibility and inclusion within your organisation, and get people thinking about how tech can help transform the lives of disabled people.
Perhaps you're an accessibility champion trying to get your senior team to understand the importance of accessibility and need help to drive action? GAAD provides a focus for all.
Here are 9 ways you can bring digital accessibility to the attention of your organisation:
1. Download free factsheets about accessibility
Use GAAD as a way to enthuse your organisation about how they can help improve access for disabled people. Share our easy-to-digest range of factsheets that provide advice and information about how computers and other digital technologies can help people with a range of conditions and impairments.
Increase your confidence in meeting the accessibility needs of your diverse workforce (and customers!) by attending our Disability Awareness Training and offering it to your team. Learn from disabled people who share their experiences in our compelling set of courses.
Watch a taster of what you'll learn on the courses:
Feedback on our training includes:
"I found the demo of the screen reader really useful - amazing to actually see/hear from someone who uses one rather than just reading about the theory of the tools which don't get the messages across for me as well as today's session did." - attendee of the Removing visual barriers course
"I found Rina's authentic and open conversation about her experience really insightful and helped my confidence in how to work better with people with neurodiversity conditions,. Thank you!” - attendee from Beyond Green of the Removing neurodiversity barriers course
3. Use data to emphasise the benefits of improving digital accessibility
Check out AbilityNet's recent Attitudes to Digital Accessibility report. Its findings indicate that organisations generally fall into one of two categories: accessibility leaders and accessibility laggards.
The report used the AbilityNet Digital Accessibility Maturity Model (DAMM) framework to highlight its findings.
In advance of GAAD, share the Digital Accessibility Maturity Model across your organisation to help you understand your accessibility gaps:
Teach your staff about important accessibility and inclusion topics, including making your content accessible, accessible PDFs and ensuring Accessible Social Media, with AbilityNet's in-house training and eLearning.
In our Accessible Workplace modules, learn language dos and don'ts, and receive practical advice to avoid creating unnecessary barriers for disabled people including your employees and customers.
In our popular webinar on 17 April How can AI help disabled people? with Robin Christopherson MBE, Microsoft, and Headway the brain injury association we discussed the myriad of ways AI (Artificial Intelligence) can improve your life!
AbilityNet's expert speakers have lived experience of disability and can talk with enthusiasm and authority to inspire your teams. We offer engaging speakers on a variety of topics, for both GAAD and beyond.
GAAD helps shine a spotlight on disabled people and their needs. Put them at the heart of every project by getting a diverse range of user testers to regularly review your digital content and services.
Also, conduct an audit to delve into your current digital products to gauge where you can make improvements and, importantly, ensure you comply with current legislation.
AbilityNet is a charity that has been operating for more than 25 years, to help disabled and older people use technology.
Digital accessibility is not just a moral imperative, it is also a business imperative, and AbilityNet can help you chat over your needs with no pressure to buy services from us!
World Cup Hero Sir Geoff Hurst: 'Seniors should embrace technology'
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Tue, 07/05/2024 - 15:55
England football legend Sir Geoff Hurst is inspiring his generation to tackle technology head-on and learn to make the most of the digital world.
Alongside BT Group, AbilityNet has teamed up with the 82-year-old to surprise a senior walking football team, Bristol City FC, with a digital skills session, followed by a friendly kickabout.
The power of learning as a team
Sir Geoff participated in a session run by an AbilityNet trainer and supported by BT Group volunteers, showcasing how technology can enhance teamwork and streamline organisational tasks.
Jos Dennis, 68, from Bristol City FC walking football team said: "Keeping up with technology can be daunting and I've often struggled with knowing where to turn to for help.
“The digital skills session we attended with BT Group and AbilityNet was hugely valuable. Not only did I learn how to protect myself online, I also discovered how helpful it is to learn as a team and to share our experiences.”
"It was great to see participants understanding that they weren't alone," said AbilityNet's Rob McLean (pictured, with Sir Geoff Hurst) of the digital skills session.
Learn more about the session and Sir Geoff's campaign to encourage older people to embrace tech:
Free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices
Our free webinar on Thursday 6 June 2024 shared how technology can provide a helping hand to disabled people and older people.
Expert speakers from AbilityNet were joined by guests from BT Group to highlight how we can help with your tech queries and provide 121 support.
Quarter of older people receive multiple scam calls each week
The digital skills session took place as part of AbilityNet and BT Group’s goal to help reduce the UK’s digital divide.
Recent research by BT Group reveals that almost a third of over 65s (27%) are not confident with tech, and over half (57%) feel like technology is passing them by. The research also reveals that a quarter of over 65s receive multiple scam calls, emails or texts a week, with those aged 55-64 encountering more scams than any other age group. *
Sir Geoff Hurst said: “You can understand why a lot of people of my generation are fed-up with being talked down to about technology.
“We need to learn digital skills in a way that’s empowering, not belittling. That’s why this session from BT Group and AbilityNet with Bristol City FC’s senior walking football team around online scams was so valuable.
"I still receive scam emails almost every day, which can be worrying, and I know many older people feel the same.
“I use tech on a daily basis - it makes life so much easier - but I don’t need to know about TikTok dances or the latest trends. Like a lot of people my age, I need it for the basics.”
Don't patronise me
The research by BT Group also revealed that older people are sick of being patronised over tech.
When trying to learn new tech from someone, nearly a quarter (24%) of over 65s have felt worried about appearing stupid.
The same number reported having their confidence knocked by the person getting frustrated or impatient with them.
The BT Group research uncovered that despite challenges, a range of positive insights from tech adoption among older people.
Nearly half (45%) of over 65s have discovered new hobbies or interests online and 59% reported feeling more connected to family members.
Victoria Johnson, Social Impact Director at BT Group, said: “Tech has become so entwined in our daily lives and how we communicate, work, and connect with the world around us. Older generations shouldn’t feel left behind, especially since having basic digital skills can offer so much independence.
“We are thrilled to team up with World Cup legend Sir Geoff Hurst to inspire more seniors to participate in our digital skills sessions in partnership with AbilityNet. These sessions are part of BT Group’s purpose, We Connect for Good, which aims to tackle the UK's digital divide by empowering people with the knowledge, resources and confidence to live life in the digital world.”
See Sir Geoff Hurst's Hat Trick of tech tips
Free tech help for over 65s
If you are over 65, or if you know someone who is over 65 who would like to receive free, in-person or online digital skills advice, we're offering training sessions in locations across the UK including London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, the East Coast of Scotland, Newcastle, Cardiff and surrounding areas.
You can choose to set up or attend a group workshop or request a 1:1 session in your home.
Sessions are tailored to individual needs, and cover topics such as using a smartphone, staying safer online or getting to grips with the internet.
We've gathered together a selection of our free resources about how to boost your digital skills in older age, including advice about using apps such as the RingGo parking app, making video calls, and identifying and avoiding online scams. Access the resources:
Does your organisation need Disability Awareness Training?
Our Disability Awareness Training gives your teams the confidence to meet the accessibility needs of your diverse workforce and customers. Learn from disabled people who share their experiences in our compelling set of courses.
Inside Google's Award-Winning Accessibility Discovery Centre
Submitted by Kelly Chan on Thu, 02/05/2024 - 13:16
Google's commitment to accessibility and inclusion took a leap forward in December 2022 when it opened its Accessibility Discovery Centre (ADC) in London. Since then the ADC has served as a hub for innovation, research, and collaboration in the field of accessibility - and has welcomed 3000+ visitors from organisations worldwide. In April 2024, the ADC won the Global Disability Inclusion Award at the Disability Smart Awards, confirming its status as a beacon of accessibility excellence.
Learn more about the Accessibility Discovery Centre
This blog sets the scene for that webinar by exploring the ADC’s role in promoting accessibility in technology through collaboration and innovation, led by Google's accessibility champion Christopher Patnoe.
What is Google's Accessibility Discovery Centre (ADC)?
Google's ADC is a physical space located at Kings Cross, London dedicated to understanding the diverse needs of disabled people, conducting innovative research, and showcasing transformative assistive technologies.
Much more than a showcase for Google products, the ADC provides a platform for collaboration and a way of connecting people with many different roles from organisations in every sector.
As well as offering tours it also hosts events such as a round table event with AbilityNet and Deque. This is a key part of the focus on partnership and highlights Google's commitment to supporting collective progress in accessibility.
Who leads Google’s Accessibility Discovery Centre in London?
Driving the ADC in London is Christopher Patnoe, Google's Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion.
Christopher and his team ensure Google's Accessibility Discovery Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.
Christopher shared that the ADC “provides an opportunity for people to contribute to something better than themselves, using the skills of what they have," highlighting the collaborative and inclusive nature of the ADC, where individuals from various backgrounds can contribute to creating a more accessible world.
The team supporting the ADC in London has grown to support the success of the Centre and Google is now expanding the network of Centres worldwide.
As Christopher says, “Other sites in Google around the world are in the process of building similar Accessibility Discovery Centres... to tell the stories of how accessibility can be useful.”
You can view the whole interview in this recording from TechShare Pro 2023.
Everything you need to know about BT's Digital Voice
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Mon, 29/04/2024 - 09:51
* Originally published May 2023. Last updated April 2024. *
In 2023, BT announced the switch to its new digital home phone service, Digital Voice.
The upgrade to Digital Voice means calls will be made over the broadband network rather than the 40-year-old analogue network.
AbilityNet, as a charity that supports older and disabled people, will be helping with the region-by-region Digital Voice rollout.
The rollout of Digital Voice
Between now and 2025 most telephone providers will be moving their customers from older analogue landlines over to new upgraded landline services using digital technology - this is collectively known as 'the digital switchover'.
Lucy Baker, All-IP Director at BT Consumer explained more about BT's digital switchover to Digital Voice on a blog on the BT website.
You can also learn about the changes on this captioned video from BT Group:
Following successful pilot trials in areas of Wiltshire, Suffolk, the East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, and Northern Ireland, and now having around two million customers across the country using Digital Voice, BT announced the next phase in the rollout of its new home phone service.
The remaining regions and nations set to make the switch are:
On 18 December 2023, BT Group, along with the wider telecoms industry, announced it will pause migration for customers who are unsure or who have informed the Group that they have a telecare device which isn’t compatible with a digital landline - their systems will not be switched until those customers are ready.
Free webinar: Free webinar: Dementia, AI and simple tech tweaks to help - with Alzheimer's Society
Our webinar on 10 July 2024 shared how technology can provide a helping hand to disabled people and older people with dementia and their carers.
"Over the past week, we've been informed about incidents involving telecare users from another communications provider who had been switched to a digital landline. In light of this news, the telecoms industry, including BT, has agreed that the right thing to do is to temporarily pause all non-voluntary, managed migrations to a digital landline where there is any risk that a customer's telecare service will not continue to work."
Voluntary migration
Throughout the programme, BT will also be contacting some broadband customers in England, inviting them to switch their landline to Digital Voice in advance of local and regional campaigning in their area.
In addition, any BT customers who want to make the switch to Digital Voice can also contact BT at any time.
BT will not be proactively switching customers who fall under any of the below criteria:
Customers with a healthcare pendant
Customers who are over 70
Customers who only use landlines
Customers with no mobile signal
Customers who have disclosed any additional needs
BT will delay switching these customers while it engages with stakeholder groups to share more about its new solutions, shape the ones it's building, and better understand the support available to help customers.
What to expect when upgrading to Digital Voice
For most BT customers, the upgrade to Digital Voice is simply having a landline phone connected to a BT broadband router. More than 99% of phone handsets are compatible with BT’s Digital Home Phone service.
BT customers will also be supported by awareness campaigns delivered across local and regional media that will explain the simple steps required to make the move to Digital Voice. Plus, BT will also be present in local high streets or town halls to answer customer queries directly.
Frequently asked question: What if there’s a power cut?
BT highlights in its Digital Voice information:
"We understand that for many, particularly those with additional needs, the landline is a lifeline. We want to be sure everyone remains connected. We've been working to make battery back-up units available to those that need them. Customers with additional needs such as health pendants or without mobile signal, can take advantage of free additional support, on request. We’re also working closely with the power companies to establish processes which help them to restore power as quickly as possible."
Supporting older people with their digital skills
In April 2023, AbilityNet announced its partnership with BT Group to help improve digital skills among older people, as research by BT Group and OnePoll has shown a need for boosting digital skills in the older age group.
As part of the Digital Voice region-by-region rollout, our team will also be ensuring customers understand the changes and how they can make the most of Digital Voice.
Sarah Brain, Free Services Manager at AbilityNet, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with BT to support older people with their digital skills. In a world where digital is so essential to daily life it’s crucial no one is left behind, and with this partnership we can help bridge the digital skills gap."
"Plus, as the digital switchover rolls out throughout the UK our team can use their knowledge and networks with older and disabled people and organisations to support people make this change as smoothly as possible.”
Does your organisation need Disability Awareness Training?
Increase your confidence in meeting the accessibility needs of your diverse workforce (and customers!) by attending our Disability Awareness Training and offering it to your team. Learn from disabled people who share their experiences in our compelling set of courses.
7 tech ideas to help people who are D/deaf or have hearing loss
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Wed, 24/04/2024 - 17:06
With Deaf Awareness Week coming up from 6 - 12 May 2024, we're highlighting some ground-breaking tech and digital resources that might make a difference to you or someone you know who is d/Deaf or has hearing loss or a hearing impairment.
1. Blog: 9 apps to help people who are D/deaf or have hearing loss
Check out this bite-sized selection of the latest tech options available for communication, leisure and education for people who have hearing loss.
2. Factsheet: Hearing loss and computing - including an Easy Read version
Assistive devices can transcend potential barriers, but each person and their requirements are unique.
If you're supporting someone at work with a hearing loss, you should also enquire about and provide reasonable adjustments, adaptations and support so that people with hearing loss can enjoy equal access to services and do not face barriers to employment or experience discrimination at work.
3. Video: Top tips for how tech can help with hearing loss
During this free webinar playback AbilityNet, Thoughtworks, and SignHealth, shared their top tips on how tech can help d/Deaf people and those who have experienced hearing loss. The recording includes British Sign Language translation, and transcript download.
4. Get help from our Tech Volunteers
AbilityNet's network of 450+ Tech Volunteers provide free IT support to older people and disabled people of any age. They can help you with all sorts of technology challenges. Get in touch for support with tech advice for hearing-related questions and other issues.
Use our online tool My Computer My Way for step-by-step guidance about getting online and using your digital device.
5. Book Disability Awareness Training for your team
6. Attend a free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices
Join a FREE webinar on Thursday 6 June 2024 between 1pm - 2pm BST to learn how technology can provide a helping hand to disabled people and older people. Experts from AbilityNet will be joined by guest speakers from BT Group to highlight how we can help with your tech queries and provide 121 support.
Tips for assistive technology that can help with hearing, visual, motor and cognitive impairments - including accessing and using the tools that are already present on many common digital devices
How to get help where you live from an AbilityNet or BT Group volunteer
Around 12 million people in the UK are D/deaf or have hearing loss. We've gathered a range of resources you can signpost people to, to help individuals manage their hearing loss and remove potential barriers to full participation in education, work, and leisure activities.
Do you have some spare time available to help people in your community learn basic computer skills?
"Volunteering at AbilityNet gives me the opportunity to build upon my experience and skills, which in turn enables people to live a healthy and productive life - it’s a truly rewarding and inspiring environment.” - Greg White, AbilityNet Tech Volunteer, Manchester
AbilityNet provides a range of free services to help disabled people and older people.
Call our helpline: 0300 180 0028 Please note: calls to our helpline number cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number and count towards any inclusive minutes in the same way as 01 and 02 calls, and AbilityNet does not receive any money from these calls
Accessibility Overlays: What are they and their challenges
Submitted by Kelly Chan on Fri, 19/04/2024 - 16:02
Accessibility overlays have emerged as a hotly debated topic within the accessibility community. These tools, offered as solutions to make websites more accessible, often raise more questions than answers.
In this blog post, we explore the challenges surrounding accessibility overlays with AbilityNet’s Principal Accessibility Consultant, Joe Chidzik.
What are Accessibility Overlays?
Accessibility overlays are third-party technologies designed to remedy accessibility issues on websites. They promise to address a range of accessibility challenges, from providing alternative text for images to enhancing text readability and colour contrast. However, Joe points out, the reality is not that simple.
Overreliance on Overlays
One of the primary concerns surrounding accessibility overlays is the temptation to rely solely on technology to solve complex accessibility issues.
Joe says, "It's good that we explore how technology can be used to make more accessible experiences, but the claims made by a lot of overlay companies are problematic. They claim to fix all problems whereas, as an accessibility expert, I know that some of those problems are only solvable by people."
While these tools may appear to offer some quick fixes, they often fall short in providing comprehensive solutions. Joe cautions against the misconception that they can single-handedly ensure compliance with accessibility standards.
To fully meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), you must fix all problems. This means doing a detailed audit of your website, using both automatic tools and human expert testers, and fixing any accessibility errors right where they start. Learn more about manual accessibility audit services conducted by our expert consultants.
The Human Element of Accessibility
At the heart of the debate lies the fundamental principle that accessibility is a human endeavour.
While technology can certainly aid in the accessibility journey, it cannot replace the insights and expertise of disabled individuals. Joe emphasises the importance of involving users in the accessibility process, as they are best positioned to provide meaningful feedback and insights.
Engaging in disabled user research and testing can offer invaluable insights into the real-world experiences of disabled individuals, helping to identify and address accessibility barriers effectively.
One of the key challenges posed by accessibility overlays is their reliance on automated algorithms. Joe points out as an example; overlays can overlook the task of generating alternative text for images.
Joe further illustrates, alternative text "is a fundamental aspect of accessibility and the first criterion that many people learn about."
"When an author of a page uses an image, they are really the best person to know what that image is trying to convey. Why do they want to put that image there? Is it conveying an emotional feel? And if software comes along and says, "I know what the alternative text for this image is", I'm a bit suspicious of that. Content is created for people to consume, not technology. So, we should not rely on technology to tell us if content is accessible or not.”
Empowering Users
Another aspect worth considering is the duplication of features already available on users' devices. Joe explains that “a lot of overlays will have features to enlarge the text or change the colours on the screen. That's good and useful for some people, they will benefit from that.”
“However, if people learn how to do it on their computer, as these features are readily available, they have a lot more power, and can use them across the web on any site they visit.” You can find information on how to make your own computer easier to use – by making text larger, changing your mouse cursor size, and more by checking out our free My Computer My Way resource!
Moving Forward: A Call for Collaboration
As the debate surrounding accessibility overlays continues, it's crucial to adopt a collaborative approach that prioritises the input of all stakeholders.
While accessibility overlays may offer some benefits, they are not the solution for all accessibility challenges. By embracing a holistic approach that values human insights and collaboration, we can create digital experiences that are truly inclusive for all.
Take Action: Schedule an Accessibility Audit
To ensure your website is truly accessible, enquire for an accessibility website or app audit conducted by our expert accessibility consultants and uncover issues that automation alone cannot detect. Let's work together towards a more inclusive online environment.
Learn essential digital skills for free in Birmingham
Submitted by Annie Mannion on Thu, 18/04/2024 - 14:08
Navigating the online world can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure about searching for information, figuring out which websites to trust, or understanding how your digital device works.
If you're 65 years old or over, live in Birmingham or nearby, and are eager to improve your digital skills, AbilityNet can help!
Join AbilityNet in partnership with BT Group for upcoming free digital skills sessions in Birmingham.
Expert Digital Skills Trainer, Mohammed Iltaf and the BT team will be your guide at these engaging sessions.
The sessions will be delivered in English, however Mohammed can talk in Potwari, Urdu and Punjabi to assist learning.
What can I expect during the sessions?
The sessions are designed to address any tech concerns you might have, and empower you with the skills needed to navigate the digital world safely and with confidence.
Our trainer is dedicated to providing personalised assistance, answering any questions you may have, and helping you become more comfortable with your digital device and the online world.
Tea and biscuits will be available during the sessions too.
Where and when are the sessions being held?
The Senior Skills Sessions run from 11am to 1pm on the following dates:
Tuesday 4th June: Getting started - (get to know your tech, navigating, common settings, troubleshooting tips, jargon etc)
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to boost your digital skills!
What previous session attendees say:
• "At 93 your service was and is of great help to me and my generation" • "I was so impressed with the trainer, who listened and really helped a lot" • "Very easy to ask questions and receive simple answers" • "It is really the course I needed. I learn something new every week" • "It is very excellent. It gives me more hope to do some things that I wouldn't do before"
You can also call our helpline on 0300 180 0028* during UK office hours to register.
Free webinar: Dementia and simple tech tweaks that can help
Join our FREE webinar with our experts from AbilityNet and Alzheimer's Society, who will share helpful tips on adjustments to tech that can make a big difference to those with dementia, Alzheimer's and cognitive disabilities.
Come along on Wednesday 10 July 2024 between 1pm - 2pm BST.
I don't live in Birmingham, how can I get digital skills help?
If you're over 65 years of age and looking to build your skills, we're offering free digital skills sessions in areas in and around London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff.
Trainers can build something bespoke for your group or for an individual and run sessions including:
*Please note: calls to our helpline number cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number and count towards any inclusive minutes in the same way as 01 and 02 calls, and AbilityNet does not receive any money from these calls
Would you, or someone you know, like to know more about how the online world enhance your life? A fresh range of short instructional videos aimed at boosting digital skills among older people will help.
"We understand that not everyone can attend a workshop, so these easy to watch up to 10-minute formats offer a great way to watch and practice digital skills at your pace in the comfort of your own home or with friends in a group," says Rob McLean, Digital Inclusion Programme Officer at AbilityNet.
Each video focuses on key topics, from basic computer use to staying safer online, ensuring that learners receive targeted information without feeling overwhelmed.
AbilityNet's Digital Skills project with BT Group is supporting people 65+ with getting online and using technology, such as:
It's 
Pat Maskell, Volunteer Coordinator and Tech Volunteer based in Cumbria
Colin Davies, Volunteer Coordinator and Tech Volunteer based in Dorset
Navigating the online world can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure about searching for information, figuring out which websites to trust, or understanding how your digital device works.
Free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices
About Lucy Walsh, BT Digital Skills Trainer, AbilityNet
If you're over 65 years of age and looking to build your skills, we're offering free digital skills sessions in London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh, the East Coast of Scotland, Newcastle, Cardiff and surrounding areas.
Free webinar: Dementia and simple tech tweaks that can help - with Alzheimer's Society
GAAD offers a great opportunity to promote digital accessibility and inclusion within your organisation, and get people thinking about how tech can help transform the lives of disabled people. 
Check out AbilityNet's recent 
Teach your staff about important accessibility and inclusion topics, including making your content accessible, accessible PDFs and ensuring Accessible Social Media, with AbilityNet's in-house training and eLearning.
Join our free 
AbilityNet's expert speakers have lived experience of disability and can talk with enthusiasm and authority to inspire your teams. We offer engaging speakers on a variety of topics, for both GAAD and beyond.
Search our simple 'how to' guides to make your device easier to use.
Jos Dennis, 68, from Bristol City FC walking football team said: "Keeping up with technology can be daunting and I've often struggled with knowing where to turn to for help. 
“We need to learn digital skills in a way that’s empowering, not belittling. That’s why this session from BT Group and AbilityNet with Bristol City FC’s senior walking football team around online scams was so valuable.
Driving the ADC in London is Christopher Patnoe, Google's Head of Accessibility and Disability Inclusion.
In 2023, BT announced the switch to its new digital home phone service, Digital Voice.
The remaining regions and nations set to make the switch are: 
1. Blog: 9 apps to help people who are D/deaf or have hearing loss
Find out from disabled people with lived experience how technology can support those who are D/deaf or hard of hearing. Choose from 
Can you help someone else use a digital device?
