Web accessibility policy

1. Introduction and scope

1.1

This policy applies to MKC Training’s public-facing website, which includes online forms, downloadable documents and third-party systems procured, configured, or managed by MKC Training where accessibility requirements can reasonably be influenced.

1.2

We are committed to ensuring that our website is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of background or ability. We aim to provide an online experience that removes barriers and offers equal access to information for all users.

1.3

This policy applies to all staff responsible for creating, managing or delivering digital content and services.

1.4

Under the Equality Act 2010, we have a legal obligation to ensure we do not discriminate against anyone who has a disability. This includes any indirect discrimination, where a service or design decision unintentionally creates barriers for disabled users.

1.5

Regardless of legal requirements, we want every visitor to our website to have an accessible experience. This policy has been developed to ensure that the information we provide in the course of our duties is available to all.

2. Compliance and standards

2.1

MKC Training aims to conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level AA as published by the World Wide Web Consortium. These ensure that people facing digital access barriers are not excluded from online life. We will continuously improve accessibility through monitoring and review.

2.2

Accessibility will be implemented according to the four WCAG principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, Robust.

Our process will be to:

Identify accessibility issues
Prioritise remediation
Document any disproportionate burden

2.3

Where accessibility features involve data processing, these will comply with UK GDPR & data protection legislation. This policy also supports compliance with the Equality Act 2010.

2.4

We will continue to work to improve accessibility and usability while ensuring ongoing compliance with relevant guidelines and legislation.

3. Policy commitments and principles

We will:

Provide text alternatives for non-text content, including images.
Provide captions or transcripts for audio and video content.
Support keyboard-only navigation.
Maintain sufficient colour contrast.
Ensure compatibility with assistive technology e.g. screen readers.
Ensure responsive design for different devices/ screen sizes.
Use clear navigation structures.
Provide accessible downloads or accessible alternatives on request.
Provide reasonable adjustments on request.
Communicate with people in a way that they can understand.
Take account of different user needs when commissioning and providing services, to ensure equal access.
Be aware that some disabilities that affect communication are not visible and not everyone will have a formal diagnosis.

4. Roles and responsibilities

4.1

Ultimate responsibility for the website rests with the Director of Growth.

4.2

The Head of Media is responsible for ensuring all imagery used across the website is compliant with applicable brand, legal and regulatory requirements.

4.3

The ALS team will support through periodic audit, review and advisory activities to help maintain ongoing compliance and best practice standards.

5. Accessibility statement

5.1

MKC Training will publish and maintain a website accessibility statement that:

Explains the accessibility status of the website.
Lists known accessibility issues.
Provides alternative access options.
Includes contact details for accessibility requests.
Provides a mechanism for reporting accessibility problems.

The accessibility statement will be reviewed annually and updated following major website changes.

6. Monitoring and compliance

6.1

Accessibility will be monitored via audits which will be conducted periodically (once a year as a minimum) and also following any significant website development.

7. Feedback and reasonable adjustments

7.1

A feedback mechanism will be in place via a dedicated link embedded in the website landing page.

7.2

Website users will also be able to report issues and request reasonable adjustments wherever they experience difficulties accessing website content or services. A request form will be provided and MKCT will:

Respond to requests within 15 working days.
Provide alternatives where possible.
Use feedback to improve service provision.

8. Policy validity and review

8.1

This policy is valid for one year from May 2026 and is due for review in May 2027.

8.2

The policy review date is subject to external factors such as changes in legislation or accessibility standards and may therefore change.

9. Policy owner

9.1

The senior manager responsible for this policy is the Commercial and Business Services Director.