Accessibility Statement
Our Commitment to Accessibility
At Tash Thomas-Still Counselling, we believe everyone deserves access to mental health support. We’re committed to ensuring our services and website are accessible to all, regardless of ability, and we continuously work to remove barriers that might prevent anyone from getting the help they need.
1. Website Accessibility
1.1 Accessibility Standards
This website has been designed to meet:
- WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)
- UK Equality Act 2010 requirements
- Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations 2018 best practices
1.2 Accessibility Features
👁️ Visual
- High contrast colours
- Resizable text up to 200%
- Clear, readable fonts
- Alt text for images
- No flashing content
⌨️ Navigation
- Keyboard-only navigation
- Skip to main content link
- Clear focus indicators
- Logical tab order
- Descriptive link text
🔊 Screen Readers
- Semantic HTML structure
- ARIA labels where needed
- Descriptive headings
- Form labels and instructions
- Error identification
📱 Responsive
- Mobile-friendly design
- Touch-friendly buttons
- Readable on all devices
- Zoom up to 400%
- Landscape/portrait support
1.3 How to Use This Website
Keyboard Navigation
| Key | Action |
|---|---|
| Tab | Move forward through links and form fields |
| Shift + Tab | Move backward |
| Enter | Activate links and buttons |
| Space | Check/uncheck boxes, activate buttons |
| Escape | Close popups and modals |
| Arrow keys | Navigate menus and options |
Browser Accessibility Tools
You can use your browser’s built-in tools:
- Zoom: Ctrl/Cmd + Plus (+) to increase, Minus (-) to decrease
- Text size: View menu > Text Size
- High contrast: Available in Windows and Mac accessibility settings
- Reader view: Available in most modern browsers
2. Counselling Service Accessibility
2.1 Physical Accessibility
Our Practice Location
- ✅ Step-free ground floor access
- ✅ Wheelchair accessible therapy room
- ✅ Accessible toilet facilities
- ✅ Nearby disabled parking spaces
- ✅ Level or ramped pathways
- ✅ Wide doorways (minimum 775mm)
- ✅ Good lighting throughout
- ✅ Clear signage
2.2 Communication Support
We can provide:
- Written communication: Email correspondence for those who prefer written communication
- Visual aids: Diagrams, written summaries, and visual resources
- Flexible pace: Sessions adapted to your communication needs
- Clear speech: Speaking clearly and checking understanding
- BSL interpretation: Can be arranged with advance notice (additional costs may apply)
- Easy read materials: Simplified versions of documents available
2.3 Session Adaptations
We can accommodate various needs:
- Shorter sessions: 30-minute sessions if concentration is difficult
- Breaks: Regular breaks during sessions
- Comfort: Adjustable seating, cushions, footrests
- Lighting: Adjustable lighting levels
- Quiet environment: Minimal background noise
- Support person: You may bring a support person if needed
- Service animals: Welcome in all sessions
2.4 Alternative Formats
All documents can be provided in:
- Large print (16pt or larger)
- High contrast versions
- Plain English/Easy Read
- Electronic formats (Word, PDF, plain text)
- Audio recordings (with advance notice)
3. Online Counselling Accessibility
3.1 Platform Features
Our online counselling via Microsoft Teams and Zoom offers:
- Closed captions/subtitles
- Screen sharing for visual aids
- Chat function for written communication
- Recording option (with consent)
- Keyboard shortcuts
- Screen reader compatibility
- Adjustable video quality for slow connections
3.2 Technical Support
We provide:
- Pre-session technology check
- Step-by-step connection guides
- Phone support for setup
- Alternative options if technology fails
4. Specific Accommodations
4.1 Neurodiversity
Support for neurodivergent clients:
- Clear, structured sessions
- Written session summaries
- Visual schedules and reminders
- Sensory considerations (lighting, sound, temperature)
- Movement breaks
- Fidget tools available
- Predictable routines
4.2 Mental Health Conditions
Adaptations for various mental health needs:
- Flexible scheduling for difficult days
- Grounding tools and techniques available
- Safe, non-triggering environment
- Crisis support information readily available
- Pace adjusted to current capacity
4.3 Learning Disabilities
Support includes:
- Simple, clear language
- Visual aids and concrete examples
- Repetition and checking understanding
- Longer sessions if needed
- Involvement of support workers (with consent)
5. Feedback and Improvements
5.1 Known Issues
We’re currently working on:
- Adding video content with captions and transcripts
- Improving colour contrast in some areas
- Enhancing mobile navigation
- Adding more language options
5.2 Reporting Problems
If you encounter any accessibility barriers, please let us know:
Contact Us
Email: tashts.counselling@outlook.com
Phone: 07961600460
Post: Tash Thomas-Still Counselling, Exeter, Devon
Please provide:
- Description of the problem
- The page URL (if website-related)
- The assistive technology you use
- Your preferred format for response
5.3 Response Time
We aim to respond to accessibility feedback within:
- 2 working days: Acknowledgment
- 5 working days: Full response with solution or timeline
6. Enforcement and Compliance
If you’re not satisfied with our response, you can contact:
Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)
Website: www.equalityhumanrights.com
Post: EHRC, Arndale House, The Arndale Centre, Manchester, M4 3AQ
7. Useful Resources
Assistive Technology
Accessibility Support
- AbilityNet – Technology support
- Scope – Disability equality
- RNIB – Sight loss support
- RNID – Hearing loss support