Half of disabled and neurodiverse adults are being put off donating to charities online because of accessibility issues.
A survey commissioned by web development firm Giant Digital has found that 73% of adults with disabilities have been put off making purchases online due to accessibility issues. Half (49%) of respondents specifically say they have been put off making online donations.
More than a quarter (27%) said websites in general do not “generally cater to them” and feel that website creators “do not understand digital and online accessibility needs”.
A third said that poor online accessibility had put them off making direct debits.
Giant Digital estimates the charity sector is missing out on £65m a year in online donations due to web accessibility issues, based on figures from the Charities Aid Foundation that charitable giving had reached £12bn this year.
Accessibility problems include issues with text, colour contrast, keyboard accessibility and video captions.
“In an increasingly digital world where online presence is paramount, it is imperative that charities and not-for-profit organisations prioritise website accessibility,” said Giant Digital director of innovation Alex McGibbon.
“By embracing inclusive design principles, they can forge stronger connections with their audiences, unlock untapped potential, and create a profound impact on the causes they champion.
"The findings from our recent survey shed light on the challenges faced by people who have been disproportionately impacted by inaccessible websites, and this valuable insight enables us to better understand their needs and create solutions that ensure inclusivity.
“Ultimately, charities are missing out on millions of pounds by not focusing on the fundamentals of their online presence.”
Accessible website in action
Charities, which have ensured their website is accessible for all, include RNIB, which has designed its online content with the needs of people with sight loss and disabilities in mind, including regular user testing.
Action taken includes ensuring pages can be magnified and each of the website's sections are clearly titled and separated, to avoid confusion. Users can also switch between light and dark mode. A large donate button is also prominent, in pink to stand out.
Are you interested in being a user tester for @RNIB?#Blind and #PartiallySighted people are needed to test products and services for #accessibility and will receive £40 voucher.
— Visionary (@visionary_uk) May 3, 2023
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