Ofcom report ignores disabled consumers

12th September 2007

Ofcom's annual Communications Market Report, which was released at the end of August, fails to take into account the importance of accessible technology for disabled people.

The report concentrates on the impact of technology on the UK's children. However, technology also has the potential to empower disabled people and change their lives.

For disabled people to be able to take advantage of the opportunities in employment it is essential technologies such as computers, mobile phones and websites are designed in an accessible way.

"A website or piece of software can be an open door to new opportunities or a great big 'No entry' sign" says Robin Christopherson, Head of Accessibility for national IT and disability charity AbilityNet.

"I personally owe everything to technology - without it I am sure I would be out of work. As a blind person my employment choices are understandably more limited.

"Currently 73 per cent of people with a visual impairment are out of work and this is due in large part to the inaccessibility of software and websites.

"I've managed to do my job with perseverance and some help, but things would be a lot easier if everyone took on board the benefits of accessible design - which include a compelling legal and business case."

Ends

Notes to editors

Media enquiries, please contact:

Brenda Otema, Communications & Marketing Officer
Employers' Forum on Disability
Email: brenda.otema@efd.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7403 3020

About Employers' Forum on Disability

Employers' Forum on Disability is the employers' organisation focused on disability as it affects employers and service providers. With over 300 members, EFD represents organisations that employ around 20 per cent of the UK workforce.Since its establishment in 1991, EFD has worked closely with government and other stakeholders, sharing best practice to make it easier to employ disabled people and serve disabled customers.

www.efd.org.uk