BBC launch accessible newsreader

The BBC have launched a new accessible newsreader service on selected pages of their website. The newsreader provides access to the content from the BBC Newsround website to single switch users.

"We're really pleased to be able to provide some good quality regularly updated and age-appropriate content to this audience, particularly as it is exactly the same content that is available to everyone else," said Ian Hamilton, Senior Designer at BBC Future Media & Technology. "Key features are a highly simplified scanning interface, fully voiced text, and being fully configurable, including fonts and colour-schemes. Although designed primarily for switch users it will also hopefully be of benefit to people who may have learning or cognitive difficulties, and people on the autistic spectrum in particular, due to things like the simplified interface, simultaneous text & speech, and connection with real-world events."

A further phase of development is booked in to add more optional functionality.

See the newsreader at www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/newsreader

 

Last updated: 14/05/09