Rules for the Accessibility Statement
Every public website and app must have an accessibility statement. It describes how usable the site is for people with disabilities.
1. Where must the statement be located?
- For websites: The statement must be directly accessible from every subpage (usually in the menu or at the very bottom).
- For apps: The statement must be available where the app is downloaded or on the provider’s website.
2. What must be included in the statement?
- The Check: It must state whether the site is accessible or not.
- The Audit: It must be explained how the site was tested (for example, by experts).
- Identifying Errors: If something is not accessible, you must explain why and if there is an alternative.
- Updates: The statement must be reviewed and updated once a year.
3. Getting in touch (Feedback function)
Users must have the opportunity to report problems easily.
- A contact form or an email address must be provided.
- If a user asks a question or reports a barrier, the provider must respond promptly.
- Users can also request information in a format that is easy for them to read.
4. Help with problems (Arbitration board)
If the provider does not respond or does not solve the problem, help is available:
- The statement must include a link to an arbitration board.
- There, users can get assistance if they feel they have been treated unfairly. This procedure is free of charge for the users.
Source: Bundesministerium des Innern und für Heimat