Meeting accessibility requirements

• Our default font for all Microsoft packages, Arial, is considered accessible.
• Set leading/line spacing at 150% (1.5) of the font size.
• Left align text and avoid using justified text all in the same font size.
• Where possible, avoid using ALL CAPITALS and italics in any body of text.
• Avoid underlining text as it will look like a hyperlink. When you create hyperlinks in any body of text, make sure that the link text clearly describes what the link is linking to. Eg. ‘The University has three campuses. Find out about our Colchester Campus. And not ‘Click here for Colchester.’
• Never overlay text on images that are already featuring text.

The clear print standard requires a minimum font size of 12 point, according to www.gov.uk. Although if material is specifically for people with a visual impairment, 14 point should be considered.

When it is necessary to use a smaller font size, give the text enough space between lines so as not to appear cramped and consider producing an accessible version with 14 point.

• Use high contrast colours.
• Where possible avoid using bright contrasting colours as this can be overwhelming.
• Avoid conveying meaning using colour alone, instead, use a combination of colour, shape and text.
• Black text on a white or very pale background is most legible.

• Where possible, publish any information documents in HTML formats, as this format works best with assistive technology.
• Where possible, include an accessibility statement on any information, that highlights a named contact so people can get in touch if they need support. For example: ‘If you would like to request this information in an accessible format, please get in touch with wedm@essex.ac.uk.

• The best design is simple and uncluttered.
• Use a linear, logical layout when publishing information.
• Use simple to understand language and avoid figures of speech and idioms.
• Avoid long lines of text – ideally, keep to a maximum of fourteen words per line.
• Break long sections of text down by adding headings, subheadings, lists and highlight boxes. Leave some clear space.

Avoid putting content in only audio or video format. Instead, ensure transcripts or captions are also available. See video guidelines on subtitling/captions for more information.

Use camel case, which is an important accessibility requirement. Screen readers cannot identify the individual words in a hashtag without camel case. This means the content will be inaccessible to users of screen readers. This could be a significant proportion of our audience.

Using camel case will make your hashtags accessible to all of these people. And more, because camel case improves readability and understanding for everyone.

See our house writing style for more information.