Accessibility & disability
We are committed to making our website accessible to all our customers and have an ongoing programme of making useful updates and improvements. We have also introduced several improvements to our website in accordance with guidelines from the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) and you can read about some of the changes here:
Text size
You can change the text size on our site to make it either larger or smaller via your browser settings. Some browsers allow you to magnify the whole page. Find out how to change the text size in your browser or see additional information for more browser tips.
Consistent page headings and titles
A consistent heading structure has been used so that page information is compatible with access technology.
Contrasting colours
We have taken care to ensure that foreground and background colours on the site contrast effectively. If you want to override the site's colours, you can do this by changing your browser settings.
Alternative text for graphics
All graphics and images contain descriptive alt tag attributes (alternative text). Where an image has no importance, the alt tag is set to null to make the site easier to read by all users.
Descriptive links
All links have been written to make sense when taken out of context. Where appropriate, we have also added information to let you know if the link will open a new window or if additional software is required to view.
Additional information
- Adobe PDF files - you need Acrobat Reader software to view Adobe Acrobat PDF files. If you do not have the software installed on your computer, you can download it for free at Acrobat Reader. If you are using access technology to view Adobe PDF documents, go to the Adobe Accessibility Resource Center which provides information and tools. An online PDF conversion tool can be found at online conversion tools for Adobe PDF documents.
- Style sheets - this site uses cascading style sheets to make it look better and so you can tailor it to your requirements. Please see our 'Tools, tips and useful information' selection below for details of how to adjust your style sheet settings.
- Browsers - the following browsers have been tested for compatibility:
- Internet Explorer (Windows) v7.0 and v6.0
- Firefox v2.0 and v1.5
- Safari (Apple Mac) v2.0.4 (419.3) and v1.3.2 (312.6)
To find out if your browser is recommended for use with our service, use our browser checker.
Tools, tips and useful resources
- Internet Explorer 6 provides a number of advanced options that can help make your browser more accessible and convenient to your personal needs and preferences. By turning some advanced settings on or off, your assistive technology and other accessibility options you select may work better. Find out how to change your individual browser settings by visiting Microsoft's Internet Explorer Accessibility section.
- JAWS for windows, the world's most popular screen reader works with your PC to provide access to software applications and the Internet. You can download a free trial copy of the JAWS screen reader.
- Lynx text browser You can download a copy of the latest Lynx text only browser.
- The RNIB Web Access Centre can provide useful information and further resources. Visit the RNIB Web Access Centre.