What Every Accessibility Statement Must Include (And Why It Matters)

An accessibility statement is required under the WCAG 2.0  standard and in accordance with applicable legal requirements. An accessibility statement must appear on every website, regardless of its size. If a website has undergone an accessibility process, it is required to include an accessibility statement. The statement should detail the accessibility accommodations made on the site and describe what the accessibility process involved. In addition, it is important to include the contact details of the accessibility coordinator responsible for accessibility within the organization, so that users can reach out and receive appropriate assistance if needed.

 The purpose of the accessibility statement is to provide people with disabilities who visit your website with relevant information about the site's accessibility features and to familiarize them with the available functions. If certain sections of the site have not been made accessible for any reason — such as an exemption — this must be noted, and an alternative must be offered to people with disabilities. This is why it is essential that the site also includes its contact information within the accessibility statement.

A few important points before you start writing your statement:

1. The statement should be written in plain, clear language so that every user who accesses it — including people with disabilities — can understand the environment they are navigating.
2. The statement must include only reliable and detailed information.
3. The statement should explain how your website was made accessible (if you are working with us on accessibility, we will write this section for you.)
4. Keep track of updates you make — if there are changes, exceptions, or similar issues, these must be clearly stated and the declaration updated accordingly.
5. The accessibility statement itself must be accessible to users. It should appear in a clearly visible location on the site — you can place it on an About page or add an accessibility statement section to the footer (or both). If you are using the services of an external company that handled your site's accessibility, ask them whether they provide an accessibility statement and leverage their professional expertise.
6. There is no official badge or seal for an accessibility statement or an accessible website — it is important to consult qualified professionals to ensure you meet all legal requirements.

Physical Accessibility Arrangements

In addition to the digital accessibility measures implemented on the site, you must also describe your business's physical accessibility arrangements — meaning the structural accessibility of your premises. Examples of physical accessibility arrangements include: accessible parking spaces, accessible restrooms, entrance routes, pathways, assistive aids, and additional related services.

If you do not have a physical location or do not receive visitors in person, state this clearly and explain how you can still facilitate an accessible meeting when needed.

Summary

A compliant accessibility statement must include the following 5 sections:

1. Details about the website's digital accessibility
2. Details about the organization's physical accessibility
3. Any sections of the site or physical space that are not accessible, for any reason — these must be disclosed
4. Accessibility coordinator contact details
5. The date the statement was last updated