A new website transforming how adults with learning disabilities access information is now live in Jersey on gov.je.
The site, which has been reviewed by service users, improves how information is presented to make sure it is in an accessible and easy to understand format.
The project was undertaken as Islanders with learning disabilities struggled with complex information on gov.je and needed help to understand it.
The Adult Learning Disability Team has worked with the Government of Jersey’s Web Services Team in consultation with service users to create the site which delivers ‘easy read’ content in HTML format. Easy read, which is a global standard, is useful for people with learning disabilities and those with other conditions affecting how they process information. It presents information as a combination of images and clear, understandable text.
When asked what he thinks about the new website which he helped design, service user Harvey said: “Gobsmacked! Can’t wait to show my friends and family.”
Robert Gardner, Head of Learning Disability Services in Adult Social Care in Health and Community Services, said: “I am immensely proud of what has been delivered as a new website for the Learning Disability Service, but also in the way it has been designed and delivered in terms of service user and provider involvement at every stage.
“The development of this website is significant in terms of its design and its robust testing by individuals with a learning disability, parents, carers and key stakeholders who ensured that with proper consideration, we have developed a more inclusive website that works for all users than was previously designed.”
Rosalind Angier, Lead Speech and Language Therapist at Health and Community Services, said: “Developing this website has been a labour of love for everyone involved, but we have learned so much. It is brilliant that it is now ‘live’ and we are very grateful to everyone that helped and supported us along the way. We couldn’t have done it without you! I am proud that we are moving towards greater communication inclusivity.”
Aimee Harris, Alternative and Augmentative Communication Officer, said: “It feels such a huge achievement for this website to now be ‘live’. Every small detail has undergone extensive research and we have been in constant consultation with our clients throughout this process. Some of our clients are able to access the website independently, some with various levels of support and for some it might be using the resources available. Our hope is that it opens the doors for anybody requiring alternative communication. I would like to say a big thank you to Charlene Brown from the Web Services Team for her dedication and support in creating this website.”
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Karen Wilson, said: “Everyone has the right to receive really good information in a way in which they can understand. This is a fantastic website and I would like to congratulate all of those who have been involved in its look, feel and content.”
The website can be found here.
Pictured: Left to right – Aimee Harris, Rosalind Angier, Royston Le Corre, Dermot Harrison, Charlene Brown, Harvey Betram, Holly Morison
