Accessibility Statement for Becontree Heath
This accessibility statement explains how we work to make information and services related to Becontree Heath accessible to as many people as possible. We are committed to providing a positive and inclusive experience for all residents, visitors, and service users in and around the Becontree Heath area, including disabled people, older people, and those using assistive technology.
Our Accessibility Commitment
We aim to meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.1, level AA. These international guidelines define best practice for making digital information and services easier to use and understand. By following these standards, we seek to provide reliable access for people with a range of access needs, including visual, hearing, motor and cognitive differences.
Our goal is that information about Becontree Heath and related services can be accessed using a range of devices, screen sizes and assistive technologies. We review accessibility on an ongoing basis and make improvements as we update our content and digital tools.
Screen Reader and Assistive Technology Support
We design our content to be compatible with common screen readers and other assistive technologies. Pages and headings are structured in a logical order so that users can move through content efficiently. Images that convey important information include meaningful alternative text so screen reader users can understand their purpose.
Where possible, we avoid presenting information exclusively through images, colour or complex layouts. Text is written in clear language and shorter paragraphs to support users with different cognitive needs or those who use text-to-speech tools to access content about Becontree Heath and local services.
Keyboard Navigation
We aim to ensure that all key parts of our online information can be accessed without a mouse. Users should be able to move through menus, forms and interactive elements using only a keyboard. Focus indicators are provided so it is clear which element is currently selected.
We work to ensure that keyboard order follows a logical sequence and that controls such as dropdowns, accordions and buttons can be operated using standard keyboard commands. This supports users who rely on keyboards, switch devices or other alternative input methods when accessing Becontree Heath content.
Text, Colour and Layout
We use colour contrasts that are intended to meet WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines so that text and important information remain readable for users with low vision or colour vision deficiency. Text can usually be resized using browser settings without loss of content or functionality.
Content is presented in a consistent layout so users can become familiar with where to find navigation and key information about accessible Becontree Heath services, local facilities and guidance. We avoid flashing content and unnecessary animation wherever possible.
Ongoing Improvements
While we aim for WCAG 2.1 AA compliance, we recognise that not all content or documents may yet fully meet these standards. Some older files or third-party tools used to support services in the Becontree Heath area may be less accessible. We review these areas over time and, where feasible, replace or update them with more accessible alternatives.
We welcome feedback from people who use assistive technologies, live in Becontree Heath, visit the area or support others to access services. Your experience helps us identify issues and set priorities for future improvements.
Contact for Accessibility Requests
If you find any accessibility problems, need information about Becontree Heath in a different format, or require a reasonable adjustment to access a service, you can contact us using the usual contact options provided for Becontree Heath services, such as online forms or postal correspondence. Please describe the information you need and the format you would prefer, for example large print, audio or an alternative digital format.
When you contact us about accessibility, please include details of the page or service you were using, the type of device or assistive technology you rely on, and the nature of the problem you experienced. This information helps us investigate the issue and respond more effectively.
We will review your request and respond as soon as we can. Where we are unable to provide an immediate solution, we will explain what we can do and when you can expect an update. Our aim is to ensure that everyone can access essential information and services linked to Becontree Heath in a way that works for them.
