Introduction
The Anti-Fraud Centre (AFC) is committed to ensuring that our website and digital resources are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. We recognize the importance of providing equal access to information and services and are dedicated to continually improving the accessibility of our online platform.
Measures to Support Accessibility
- Include accessibility as part of our mission statement: AFC acknowledges accessibility as a fundamental aspect of our mission to serve all individuals, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.
- Assign clear accessibility targets and responsibilities: We have established clear accessibility targets and assigned specific responsibilities to ensure that accessibility initiatives are prioritized and implemented effectively across all aspects of our operations.
- Employ formal accessibility quality assurance methods: AFC employs formal accessibility quality assurance methods, including regular audits and testing, to identify and address accessibility barriers proactively.
Inclusive Design Principles
We adhere to inclusive design principles to ensure that our website and digital resources are usable by the widest possible audience. This includes designing interfaces and content that are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users.
Accessibility Training
We provide comprehensive accessibility training to our staff members involved in the development, maintenance, and content creation for our website and digital platforms. This training covers best practices, guidelines, and techniques for creating accessible content and interfaces.
User Feedback Mechanism
AFC maintains a user feedback mechanism to gather input and insights from users regarding the accessibility of our website and digital resources. Users can provide feedback, report accessibility issues, and request assistance through various channels, including email, phone, and online forms.
Assistive Technologies Compatibility
We strive to ensure compatibility with a wide range of assistive technologies, including screen readers, magnifiers, voice recognition software, and alternative input devices. Our website and digital resources are designed and tested to be compatible with popular assistive technologies commonly used by individuals with disabilities.
Multimedia Content
We provide alternative text descriptions, captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions for multimedia content to ensure that it is accessible to users with disabilities. This includes images, videos, audio files, and other multimedia elements featured on our website.
Keyboard Navigation
Our website and digital resources are designed to be navigable and usable via keyboard alone, without the need for a mouse or other pointing device. Users can navigate through interactive elements, forms, and menus using standard keyboard shortcuts and commands.
Readable Text
We prioritize readability by using clear and legible fonts, appropriate contrast ratios, and scalable text sizes throughout our website and digital resources. This ensures that content is accessible and readable to users with low vision or other visual impairments.
Performance Optimization
We optimize the performance of our website and digital resources to ensure fast loading times and smooth user experiences, particularly for users with slower internet connections or limited bandwidth.
Accessibility Audit and Continuous Improvement
AFC conducts regular accessibility audits and evaluations to identify areas for improvement and ensure ongoing compliance with accessibility standards and guidelines. We are committed to addressing any identified accessibility issues promptly and continuously improving the accessibility of our online platform.
Collaboration with Specialized Agencies
We collaborate with specialized agencies, organizations, and experts in the field of accessibility to leverage their expertise, resources, and guidance in enhancing the accessibility of our website and digital resources.
Accessible Documents
We provide accessible document formats, such as HTML, PDF, and Microsoft Word, for downloadable documents available on our website. These documents are designed to be compatible with assistive technologies and screen readers, ensuring accessibility for all users.
Conformance Status
AFC strives to conform to recognized accessibility standards and guidelines, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, at the AA level. We regularly assess our conformance status and take steps to address any non-compliance issues identified.
Current Achievements
At present, AFC has made significant strides in improving the accessibility of our website and digital resources. These achievements include:
- Implementation of accessibility features and enhancements based on user feedback.
- Collaboration with accessibility experts and organizations to improve website accessibility.
- Regular training and education for staff members on accessibility best practices and guidelines.
Identified Gaps
While AFC has made progress in enhancing accessibility, we recognize that there are still areas for improvement. Some identified gaps include:
- Addressing specific accessibility issues identified through user feedback and accessibility audits.
- Enhancing the accessibility of certain multimedia content and interactive features.
- Providing additional resources and support for users with specific accessibility needs.
Continuous Evaluation and Enhancement
AFC is committed to continuously evaluating and enhancing the accessibility of our website and digital resources. We will remain vigilant in identifying and addressing accessibility barriers to ensure equal access for all users.
User-Centered Approach
Our approach to accessibility is user-centered, prioritizing the needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities. We actively seek input and feedback from users with disabilities to inform our accessibility initiatives and improvements.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, AFC aspires to achieve even greater levels of accessibility for our website and digital resources. Our future goals include:
- Implementing additional accessibility features and enhancements based on evolving standards and best practices.
- Expanding accessibility training and education initiatives for staff members.
- Collaborating with stakeholders and experts to advance accessibility efforts industry-wide.
Transparency and Accountability
AFC is committed to transparency and accountability in our accessibility efforts. We will regularly update this Accessibility Statement to reflect our progress, achievements, and ongoing commitments related to accessibility.
Feedback
We welcome feedback from users regarding the accessibility of our website and digital resources. If you encounter any accessibility barriers or have suggestions for improvement, please contact us via email, phone, or online feedback form.
Compatibility with Browsers and Assistive Technology
Our website and digital resources are designed to be compatible with a wide range of browsers and assistive technologies. We regularly test and validate compatibility with popular browsers and screen readers to ensure a consistent and accessible user experience.
Assessment Approach
AFC employs a comprehensive assessment approach to evaluate the accessibility of our website and digital resources. This approach includes automated testing tools, manual inspections, user testing, and expert evaluations to identify and address accessibility barriers.
Limitations and Alternatives
While we strive to make our website and digital resources fully accessible, we recognize that certain limitations may exist due to technological constraints or third-party content. In such cases, we will provide alternative accessibility solutions or accommodations to ensure equal access for all users.
Formal Complaints
Individuals who believe they have encountered accessibility barriers on our website or digital resources may submit formal complaints to our Accessibility Coordinator. We will promptly investigate and address all complaints in accordance with our accessibility policies and procedures.
Updates to This Statement
This Accessibility Statement will be periodically reviewed and updated to reflect changes in our accessibility initiatives, achievements, and commitments. Users are encouraged to check back regularly for the latest information on our accessibility efforts.
Approved by AFC's Management Team on Mar 22, 2024.