1. Purpose

West Mersea Town Council is committed to ensuring that everyone can access our information and services, regardless of disability, impairment, or access needs. This policy explains how we meet our legal obligations and how residents can obtain information in alternative formats.

2. Legal Framework

This policy supports compliance with:

• The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) (No.2) Accessibility Regulations 2018
• The Equality Act 2010
• Assertion 10 of the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR)

3. Website Accessibility

The Council aims to ensure that its website is accessible and usable for as many people as possible. We work towards compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA.

Our website:

• Uses clear navigation and readable fonts
• Is compatible with screen readers and assistive technologies
• Allows users to zoom text without loss of content or functionality
• Avoids unnecessary images of text where possible

4. Documents and Content

We recognise that some documents, particularly older PDFs or scanned files, may not fully meet accessibility standards.

To address this, the Council:

• Publishes new documents in accessible formats wherever possible
• Reviews and updates key documents to improve accessibility
• Provides alternative formats on request, including large print, plain text, or accessible PDF versions

5. Alternative Access to Information

If any resident is unable to access information on our website, the Council will provide the same information through alternative means.

Information can be requested:

• By email
• By telephone
• In writing

The Council will respond within a reasonable timeframe and without charge where possible.

6. Reporting Accessibility Issues

If you experience any difficulty accessing our website or documents, please contact the Town Clerk using the details below. We will:

• Acknowledge the issue
• Consider reasonable adjustments
• Provide the requested information in an accessible format

7. Contact Details

Town Clerk to the Council: Kirsty Wadsworth
Email: town.clerk@westmerseatowncouncil.gov.uk
Telephone: 01206 382128 
Postal address: 10 Melrose Road, West Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8JD

8. Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed and updated as required to reflect changes in legislation, guidance, or Council practices.

This accessibility statement was last updated on 08/01/2026