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Accessibility essentials
Learn the basics of website accessibility so your content is easier to use, easier to understand and more welcoming for more people.
What is accessibility?
Accessibility means designing and writing content so people with different needs and abilities can use a website. It is about removing barriers and making sure everyone can find information, understand it and take action, whatever their circumstances.
Accessible websites are better for more people.
Why it matters
Inclusion
Everyone should be able to access and use your content, regardless of ability, background or device.
Usability
Accessible design often makes websites easier to use for everyone, not just people with disabilities.
Trust
A more inclusive website shows you care about your audience and helps build credibility.
Start with the basics
Clear headings and structure
Use proper headings (H1, H2, H3) to organise your content and make it easier to scan.
Readable text
Use plain language, keep sentences short and choose a legible font size and line height.
Good colour contrast
Make sure text has enough contrast with the background so it is easy to read.
Keyboard-friendly navigation
Make sure your website can be used with a keyboard, not just a mouse.
What accessible content includes
Alt text for images
Describe what the image shows in a clear and concise way when that information is useful to the reader.
Descriptive links
Use link text that makes sense out of context, rather than vague wording such as “Click here”.
Form labels and instructions
Use clear labels and helpful instructions so people can understand and complete forms successfully.
Captions or transcripts
Provide captions for videos and transcripts for audio content where appropriate.
Quick on-page checklist
Page structure makes sense, including headings, lists and landmarks
Links are descriptive
Forms are labelled and include helpful instructions
Images have appropriate alt text
Content works well on mobile
Colour is not the only way information is shown
Common mistakes to avoid
- Low contrast – Text that is difficult to distinguish from its background can exclude many users.
- Vague link text – Phrases such as “Click here” do not tell people where the link goes.
- Missing alt text – Without appropriate alternative text, important information in images can be missed.
- Using colour alone – Do not rely on colour as the only way to communicate meaning, for example in charts or error messages.
Further reading
Explore these trusted resources to learn more about website accessibility.
W3C Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) – Introduction to Web Accessibility
A clear introduction to what web accessibility means, who it benefits and how accessible design, content and code work together.
WebAIM – Contrast Checker
A practical tool for checking whether foreground and background colours meet WCAG contrast requirements for text and interface elements.
GOV.UK – Guidance and tools for digital accessibility
Practical UK guidance and tools covering accessible content, services, testing and WCAG. Some legal requirements on GOV.UK apply specifically to public sector organisations.
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