What UK Councils Need to Know About Website Accessibility
posted 2nd September 2026
What UK Councils Need to Know About Website Accessibility
For many residents, a council website is the main way they access information and essential services. From reporting issues to finding local support, digital services need to work for everyone.
Under the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018, public sector organisations must meet accessibility requirements for their websites and mobile apps. The current technical standard is WCAG 2.2 AA, alongside the requirement to publish and maintain an accessibility statement.
Accessibility is an ongoing responsibility
Council websites are constantly changing. New content, documents, forms, and services can all introduce new accessibility barriers. That's why accessibility should be regularly reviewed rather than treated as a one-off project. Accessible website design and content are essential, but giving residents greater flexibility in how they access information can also support digital inclusion.
Customisation with AccessAngel
AccessAngel provides website visitors with tools that allow customers to personalise their online experience.
Features include:
Text-to-speech
Translation into over 100 languages
Speech recognition
Magnification
Dictionary support
Styling and customisation options
PDF reading support
These features can help users access information in ways that work for their individual needs and preferences.
Supporting a more inclusive digital experience
An accessibility toolbar does not automatically make a website WCAG compliant. Councils should continue to identify and address accessibility barriers within their websites and digital services.
However, tools such as AccessAngel can provide an additional layer of support, giving residents more choice and flexibility when accessing online information.
If your council is looking to improve digital inclusion and make its website more accessible to a wider range of users, find out how AccessAngel could help.