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Accessibility

All components and patterns in the design system are built to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards.

WCAG 2.1 Compliance​

Level A​

  • Images have alternative text
  • Content is keyboard accessible
  • Page structure uses proper headings
  • Colour is not the only way to convey information

Level AA​

  • Colour contrast ratios meet minimum standards
  • Text can be resized up to 200% without horizontal scrolling
  • Focus is clearly visible and logical
  • Content is compatible with assistive technologies

Testing for accessibility​

Automated testing​

  • Use accessibility linters and automated tools
  • Test colour contrast ratios
  • Validate HTML and ARIA usage
  • Check keyboard navigation

Manual testing​

  • Navigate using only the keyboard
  • Test with screen readers (NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)
  • Verify content makes sense with images disabled
  • Check readability and plain English

User testing​

  • Include users with disabilities in research
  • Test with assistive technologies
  • Gather feedback on real-world usage
  • Iterate based on user needs

Common accessibility requirements​

Content​

  • Use clear, simple language
  • Structure content with proper headings
  • Provide alternative text for images
  • Use descriptive link text
  • Ensure sufficient colour contrast

Interaction​

  • Provide keyboard alternatives to mouse actions
  • Make focus indicators clearly visible
  • Use ARIA labels and descriptions where needed
  • Ensure interactive elements are large enough (minimum 44px)
  • Provide clear error messages and instructions

Technical​

  • Use semantic HTML elements
  • Include proper ARIA landmarks
  • Ensure page titles are descriptive
  • Validate HTML markup
  • Test with screen readers

Accessibility support​

Getting help​

  • Contact the Cornerstone team for accessibility questions
  • Review component-specific accessibility guidance
  • Use accessibility testing tools and checklists

Reporting issues​

  • Report accessibility problems to the Cornerstone team
  • Include details about the issue and how to reproduce it
  • Suggest improvements based on user feedback

Shelter's digital services must comply with:

  • Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA
  • UK accessibility regulations (2018)
  • Equality Act 2010
  • Public sector accessibility requirements