Making Information Accessible

SAIF aims to improve the provision of information to disabled people and carers and make information more accessible to everyone who needs it. Rather than being forced to rely on others, disabled people should receive information directly and in their preferred format.

SAIF was set up as a result of the Enabling Information report (1995). SAIF is funded by the Scottish Executive, employs 2 part-time project workers and a part- time admin assistant and is based in the Scottish Consumer Council in Glasgow. The SAIF advisory body itself is made up of 21 people drawn from disability-led organisations and information providers.

Produced the SAIF Standards for Disability Information and Advice Provision and disseminated them widely throughout Scotland. Encouraging their implementation by promotion and support materials. Produced a Scottish Directory of Alternative Formats to promote access to agencies offering advice and support services for people who want to provide their information in alternative formats like Braille and audio tape. Established UPDATE, Scotland’s national disability information provider. UPDATE offers information, advice, support and training for a wide range of local advice agencies throughout Scotland. SAIF is now working in partnership with UPDATE to promote good practice.

Building a network of national information providers in order to promote better co-ordination between them. Working with local authorities and others to encourage the development of local accessible information strategies. Promoting the development of accessible websites. Providing what support it can to any agency interested in improving the accessibility of its information services. Acting as an advisory body to The Scottish Executive.

The Disability Discrimination Act states that you must ensure your services are accessible to disabled people. To meet the needs of disabled people agencies should: Produce all information in plain language and a minimum type size of 12 point. 14pt is even better. Print on white or other suitably coloured paper. On request, provide information in alternative formats such as large print, audio, tape, Braille, or an easy-to-understand version.

Use interpreters for people who need to communicate in a sign language or other community language. Design and develop your web site in a way that makes it accessible for disabled people. Provide your service in a flexible way, where appropriate using home visits, telephones, the internet or different opening hours. Ensure that your premises are fully accessible to people with mobility or sensory impairments.

Provide publicity materials which tell disabled people what you can or cannot do. Get regular and organised feedback from disabled people about the accessibility of your service. Involve disabled people in service planning and training delivery.

How can SAIF support you? SAIF Standards for Disability Information and Advice Provision in Scotland Making Information Accessible Poster SAIF Directory of Alternative Formats What Disabled People Should Be Able To Expect From Disability Information And Advice Services Using An Information Or Advice Service. Easy to read booklet.

Guide to User-Led Service Reviews Purposes of a user-led review Recruiting a review team and getting organised Identifying service issues and factors Questionnaires Interviews Analysis of information Feeding back the results and implementing changes Practical checklists and sample documents

Making Websites Accessible A guide for anyone who wants a website that works for them and their target audience How to get on-line How to plan your website How to design your website How to maintain your website Where to get further help