Accessibility Specialist
Ensuring Inclusive Digital Public Services
An accessibility specialist supports and advises colleagues in the Government Digital and Data profession on designing accessible digital services. In this role, you'll apply your knowledge of accessibility guidelines, offer technical expertise, and advocate for disabled users to help product teams build digital services that are inclusive and usable for all.
Key Responsibilities
As an Accessibility Specialist in the UK public sector, you are responsible for supporting teams in creating digital services that adhere to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and comply with UK accessibility regulations. Your expertise ensures that digital services are inclusive for all users, particularly those with disabilities. Here’s a breakdown of your core responsibilities:
Guidance on Accessibility Standards
You provide advice to digital and data professionals on best practices in accessibility, helping teams align with WCAG, UK accessibility laws, and government service standards.
Technical Accessibility Expertise
Using your in-depth knowledge of assistive technologies and web accessibility tools, you support developers, designers, and content creators in building services that accommodate a range of disabilities
User-Centered Design Focus
Working in a user-centered design environment, you advocate for disabled users by emphasizing their needs throughout the design process, from discovery to live service iterations.
Accessibility Testing and Audits
Conducting accessibility audits and testing services with real users ensures that digital products meet compliance requirements and, more importantly, deliver seamless experiences to everyone.
Skills & Qualifications
- Understanding of Accessibility Guidelines: Knowledge of WCAG, the Equality Act 2010, and UK Government Digital Service (GDS) standards is fundamental.
- Experience with Assistive Technology: Familiarity with screen readers, voice recognition software, and other assistive technologies helps you understand user needs and test accessibility accurately.
- User Research Skills: Strong user research skills are essential for identifying the specific requirements of disabled users and advocating for them in the design process.
- Technical Proficiency: Basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and accessible design patterns is a plus, enabling you to work closely with development teams.
- Communication and Collaboration: Being able to clearly convey accessibility principles to diverse teams and stakeholders is essential for fostering an inclusive approach to design.