In an increasingly digital world, the importance of website accessibility cannot be overstated. As new laws and regulations emerge, understanding and complying with them is not just a legal necessity but also a moral imperative. This blog post will guide you through the essentials of website accessibility, the existing UK laws, the new European Accessibility Act (EEA), and why adopting accessibility practices is crucial for your business.
What is website Accessibility?
Website accessibility refers to the practice of designing websites and digital content that can be used by everyone, including individuals with disabilities. This encompasses a wide range of disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, language, learning, and neurological disabilities. The aim is to ensure that all users have equal access to information and functionality on the web.
What are the current Accessibility laws in the UK?
Overview of the Equality Act
The Equality Act 2010 requires UK service providers, including website operators, to make reasonable adjustments so disabled users aren’t disadvantaged. For digital products, this means ensuring websites and apps are accessible and usable by people with a range of disabilities.
The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018
The Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations 2018 build on the Equality Act, requiring public sector websites and mobile applications to meet specific accessibility standards.
Essential Accessibility law updates you need to know
The European Accessibility Act (EEA)
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) officially came into force on 28 June 2025. This is one of the most significant shifts in digital accessibility to date, setting out clear deadlines and requirements for businesses across the EU.
What standards apply?
The EAA aligns with EN 301 549, which is based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA — and is expected to expand to WCAG 2.2 AA.
This means digital products must be:
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Perceivable – content available to all senses (e.g. text alternatives for images).
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Operable – usable by everyone (e.g. keyboard navigation).
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Understandable – clear and consistent (e.g. plain language).
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Robust – compatible with assistive technologies.
Key deadlines you need to know
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From 28 June 2025:
Any new digital products or services (such as websites, mobile apps, e-commerce platforms, and digital banking) must conform immediately to the EAA standards. -
By 28 June 2030:
Businesses have until this date to update their existing digital products and services to meet the new accessibility requirements. -
Self-service terminals (like ATMs and ticket machines) already in place before June 2025 can remain in use for up to 20 years from when they were first deployed.
Exemptions and special cases
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Micro‑enterprises (fewer than 10 employees and under €2m turnover) may be exempt from some requirements.
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In rare cases, organisations may request exemptions if compliance would cause a disproportionate burden or fundamentally alter the product — but this must be justified and documented.
What are the risks for not complying with the law?
Non-compliance with accessibility laws can lead to legal challenges, financial penalties, and reputational damage. Beyond the legal implications, inaccessible websites can result in a loss of potential customers and negatively impact the user experience for a significant portion of the population. It's not just about avoiding penalties; it's about inclusivity and reaching a wider audience.
What should your next steps be?
If you’re planning a new digital product or service, accessibility can no longer be an afterthought; it has to be built in from day one.
For existing digital platforms, the five‑year transition window may sound generous, but updating complex systems takes time. Acting early reduces risk and spreads out costs.
Navigating the complex landscape of accessibility laws can be challenging, but it is essential for your business. If you're unsure about the accessibility of your website, it's time to take action. Contact us to help make your website accessible, ensuring compliance with the latest laws and regulations.
