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Websites - accessibility

This site's layout takes into account users who are visually impaired or have difficulties using a mouse, we have strived, where possible to achieve maximum compatibility with popular screen reading software, and can be navigated easily using just a keyboard. If you have any problems finding the information you require try using the keyword search located at the top of the left-hand navigation on every page.

This site is compatible with the BrowseAloud screen reading software. BrowseAloud can be used in conjunction with InternetExplorer and Microsoft Windows, it is available for free from the BrowseAloud website (http://www.browsealoud.com/).

Please note that unless otherwise stated all links will open within the same browser window.

Careful consideration has also been given to the design of this site which should make it compatible with most other screenreading software.

W3C

In general, the site conforms or exceeds WAI double AA rating. Where documents are made available in other formats, conformance has not been achieved.

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Access Keys

"Access keys" have been included to assist users with disabilities when navigating their way through the web site. Essentially keyboard shortcuts, access keys provide quick and easy access to common pages without the need for a mouse.

• Windows based computers Pressing "ALT" and the access key will give focus to that specific link on the page. If you press return, you will then be taken to that page.
• Macintosh based computers Pressing "CTRL" and the access key will automatically send you to that specific page.

The access keys used on this site are:

• Section
  • Access key 'h' Home
  • Access key 'c' Your Council
  • Access key 'r' Residents
  • Access key 'b' Business
  • Access key 'l' Leisure
  • Access key 't' Tourism
• Main Navigation
  • Access key '1' Advice & Benefits
  • Access key '2' Business
  • Access key '3' Community & Living
  • Access key '4' Council & Democracy
  • Access key '5' Education & Learning
  • Access key '6' Environment & Planning
  • Access key '7' Housing
  • Access key '8' Jobs & Careers
  • Access key '9' Leisure & Culture
• Other Functions
  • Access key 's' Site Search
  • Access key 'z' A-Z of Services
  • Access key 'a' Accessibility Page
  • Access key 'n' Skip Navigation
  • Access key 'q' QuickLinks

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Increasing text size

Some users might find screen text easier to read by increasing the size at which text is displayed. To do this you should simply adjust your browser's settings.

• If you use Microsoft Internet Explorer, go to the View menu, select Text Size and then either Larger or Largest.
• If you use Netscape Navigator, go to the View menu and choose Increase Font until the text is the size you require.

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Changing colours

Changing the site's background colour can be particularly useful for users who rely on magnification technology as white can produce an uncomfortable glare. It is also possible to change the colour of body text on the site. Both can be achieved by changing preferences in your browser:

• If you use Microsoft Internet Explorer, go to the Tools menu, select Internet Options, select Colors and make changes to text and background colours in the Colors panel.
• If you use Netscape Navigator, go to the Edit menu, select Preferences, open the Appearance menu and select Colors. You can set the colour of text and background from here.

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Removing the 'style' or Text-only mode

This site has been designed with alternative browsing methods in mind, if you wish to disable the style-sheet, or, you are using a browser without stylesheet support, you will still see the content we have made available.