Media & Disability
Guide on media & disability
Disabled Access to Broadcast Services
As a broadcaster you need to consider how disabled people can access the whole range of your services, not just your programmes. There are now a number of broadcasters who use some or all of the following ways to ensure that disabled people can fully access their services:
- If you use voice-mail or any other automated response unit systems (such as telephone lines with messages that require the user to select specific buttons to get different pieces of information) you will need to provide an alternative method for disabled people who cannot use systems like this. You should consider setting up a dedicated helpline with fully trained staff to answer the calls.
- Make sure that your programme-related websites are fully accessible and meet international access standards
- Consider using a dedicated email address to receive feedback from disabled customers.
- You should provide a textphone service to make it easier for deaf, hearing impaired and speech impaired customers to contact you. This could be via their mobile phones or a relay service.
- Establish a fully accessible website with up-to-date listings of subtitled, signed and audio described programmes and technical advice for customers wanting to access subtitles and audio description on their televisions.
- Text to speech output for Electronic Programme Guides.
- A magazine in audio format for visually impaired customers. Also provide letters and information in large print formats.
- Advertise and market to disabled people to ensure that access services are well publicized.
- Ensure disability organizations are sent information and promotional material.
- Organise some special travelling exhibitions or road shows to publicise your disability access services.
- Pay attention to disability access as part of routine building maintenance, refurbishment or new building acquisition.