Many people face barriers when it comes to accessing information on the Internet. A lot of Internet information excludes people because the language used is difficult to understand, unclear or unfamiliar.
These people fit into many different groups and sectors of society, for example:
ESL (People with English as a second language)
- 29% of Londoners (representing over 300 languages) have English as a second language (ESL)
- Around 1/5th of working age ESL Londoners said they had experienced language difficulties that caused problems finding or keeping a job. This rose to 1/3rd for those with no qualifications
Employees with limited basic skills
Poor basic skills cost UK industry more than £4.8 billion a year. It costs every company employing more than 50 employees £165,000 lost every year in poor quality control, lost orders and poor communication.
Tourism
- 51% of overseas visitors to London during 2004/05 said they used the Internet to plan their trip to London and over 75% had English as a second language
People with learning disabilities
- Approximately 1 in 600 people have Down's syndrome.
- Approximately 1 in 200 people have an autistic spectrum disorder.
Young (15 -34) disabled adults are more likely than their non disabled peers to have internet access, and use the internet more than non-disabled people of the same age.
- 11% of Europe’s population have disabilities significant enough to affect their access to web services – and therefore inhibiting the vital connection of communication with others.
Children and adults in education
People new to languages specific to an industry or subject
This is just a sample, many other groups with similar difficulties are out there.
These hard to reach groups are potential customers and want to have clearer access to your information and services.
"Public bodies - from the local library to the NHS - will have to consider what disabled people need when planning their services. This is a step-change away from individual disabled people having to complain about discrimination after an incident has taken place.
The DED will help public bodies become more efficient and save money because it involves providing services that disabled people need. Those who fail to meet their new legal duties risk facing us in court."
Bert Massie, Chairman, Disability Rights Commission
Read how our approach enables you to reach these groups and exceed current legislation and W3 standards...
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