AbilityNet helps create new Accessibility Alliance

AbilityNet is a founding member of the the newly formed Digital Accessibility Alliance, which brings together the previous eAccessibility Forum and the One Voice for Accessible ICT Coalition. Its role is to encourage compliance with relevant legislation, promote universal access to digital services for older people and those with disabilities and generate and promote good practice in delivering eInclusion.

The new Alliance was announced by the UK Government in December 2014 and brings together key players from government departments, regulators, local government, business and the not for profit sector. AbilityNet's CEO Nigel Lewis has been a leading member of the One Voice Coalition and has played a very active part in the development of the Alliance. He said:

"The new Digital Accessibility Alliance has the opportunity to make a real impact by bringing this critical topic into the mainstream instead of being left as an afterthought. Only by working together can we make digital inclusion a reality and help to transform the lives of disabled and elderly people everywhere."

The Digital Accessibility Alliance will be chaired by Kevin Carey (pictured), who is also Chair of the RNIB. He said:

“After nearly 20 years of working in the accessibility field, we need to change with technology. We need an agenda to move forward and not play catch up. I look forward to chairing the Alliance to make a positive impact on the lives of disabled and older people.”

Culture and the Digital Economy Minister Ed Vaizey said:

“The explosion of digital services provides endless opportunities for all – but the Government is all too aware that disabled and older people can often unintentionally be left behind. By bringing together the various parties, through the Alliance, we can work together to address any issues and make a difference.”

The Alliance is open to all those with a publicly declared commitment to its aims and objectives, including, (but not limited to), government departments, regulators, local government, business, universities and academia and the not-for- profit sector. It will meet regularly to provide updates on progress and further suggestions to the Minister for Culture and the Digital Economy.

The Alliance will continue the work of the eAccessibility Forum, which worked to ensure accessibility, affordability and equal participating for disabled users in the digital economy. It will also build upon the work of the OneVoice for Accessible ICT Coalition.