UK Government e-petition for better web accessibility

If you know anything about us you'll know that we're strong advocates of accessibility and standards-based websites. This doesn't make us over-zealous when it comes to accessibility issues. We always consider both the merits and demerits of specific accessibility guidelines and principles before applying them to any website.

There are still far too many websites being developed that make it difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to access the content. As awareness of accessibility issues increases and more web designers and developers learn how to interpret and apply accessibility guidelines, the number of inaccessible websites will fall.

The task of raising awareness is a difficult one. The task of learning how to interpret and apply the guidelines involves doing some hard work to learn new techniques and practices and then having the discipline to adhere to those techniques without cutting corners or making exceptions without consideration. But the business case for accessibile websites shows that the work is worth the effort.

With that in mind, perhaps this petition to the UK Prime Minister to ensure that any website launched by the Government complies with accessibility standards (WCAG AA at least) will help to raise awareness and move us all towards making more of an effort.

Note: Unfortunately you've got to be a British citizen or resident to sign the petition.