MeAC – Measuring Progress of eAccessibility in Europe

Legislation/regulations

Analogue TV

Under the Communications Act 2003, Ofcom (the regulator) is required to draw up, and from time to time review and revise, a code giving guidance as to the extent to which television services should promote the understanding and enjoyment by people who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who are blind or partially sighted, or have dual sensory impairment (deafblind). These targets are set in a Code on Television Access Services. The code applies to a broad spectrum of both public and private broadcasters. Ofcom is required to set ten year targets for television access services – subtitling, signing and audio description.

The size of the targets depends upon the size and audience of the broadcaster, with different anniversary dates for different broadcasters/channels (linked to when they were established etc.). For subtitling, the targets range from 10% to 100% of programming now, rising to 80% or more for all broadcasters by 2014. For signing, targets range from 1% to 5% of programming over varying timeframes. For audio descrition, targets range from 4% to 10% over varying timeframes.

An annex to the Code provides guidelines on good practice for subtitling, signing and audio description.

Digital TV

With regard to Digital Television, the statutory requirements set out in the Code on Television Access Services also apply. In addition, under the 2003 Act, Ofcom has to ensure that “domestic electronic communications apparatus is developed which is capable of being used with ease, and without modification, by the widest possible range of individuals (including those with disabilities)”.

The Department of Trade and Industry has set up a Usability Action group to address accessibility issues in Digital television equipment. However, it seems that there are not yet any direct requirements on manufacturers of equipment to address accessibility.

Other initiatives

As part of the Digital Switchover Programme, the government has set up a Help Scheme aimed at providing practical assistance and support for people aged 75 years and over, and people with significant disabilities. There is also a voluntary industry quality mark called “Digital Tick” which is supposed to denote certain accessibility features.

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