The Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination based on disability. The section that relates specifically to website accessibility laws is British Standard BS 8878. In 2019, BS 8878 was replaced with the international standard ISO 30071-1. It is overseen by the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

What it includes

Digital spaces should follow the guidance of the WCAG 2.2 AA standard. Compliance is expected for IT infrastructure and digital services including:

• Websites
• Email Clients
• Virtual Learning Environments
• SaaS (Software as a Service)
• RIA (Rich Internet Applications)

Exceptions

While there is a provision for exemptions in cases where compliance would impose a “disproportionate burden,” this exception is tightly regulated.

Fines and penalties

The UK does not automatically impose set fines for non-compliance, however penalties are still a reality. Under the Equality Act, legal consequences can be imposed and enforced. People with disabilities who have been impacted by either a public or private organization’s barrier to accessibility on websites, mobile apps or digital services can file a claim of discrimination with the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Those found to violate compliance can be held accountable through legal action, settlements, or compulsory improvements to accessibility at their own cost.

Reporting

The UK has established recommendations for both public and private websites regarding accessibility reporting. Companies are strongly encouraged and expected to examine accessibility requirements as part of the decisions with the development of any website. Furthermore, companies should establish a digital accessibility policy and document any later decisions dealing with accessibility.

All digital services should undertake an accessibility audit upon entering Private Beta and again upon entering Public Beta. If there are failings against the WCAG 2.2 AA standard in Private Beta, you should address these by Public Beta.

For the latest and most accurate information on digital accessibility requirements,please refer to the official documentation provided by the UK government.