Audit checklist
- Identify the website or service covered by the statement.
- Name the standard used: WCAG and/or EN 301 549.
- State the current conformance status honestly.
- List known non-accessible content and remediation plans.
- Provide an accessibility feedback contact.
- Include preparation, last review and next review dates.
- Keep the statement updated after fixes and re-scans.
What an accessibility statement should include
A useful statement is concrete. It names the site, the standard, the assessment method, the current status, known limitations, feedback contact and enforcement or escalation route where applicable. It should also say when it was prepared and when it will be reviewed again.
Do not claim full compliance if the audit found unresolved issues. A partial statement with a real remediation plan is more credible than a perfect statement contradicted by obvious barriers.
Language and country context
EU countries implement accessibility requirements in national law. In practice, the statement should be understandable to the users and authorities in the target country. For multilingual sites, keep statements aligned with the localized user journey and the country where the service is offered.
A statement is not a one-time document
Update the statement after meaningful fixes, redesigns, new templates and new audits. Keep historical evidence: scan dates, findings and verification results. This shows a maintained accessibility process rather than a one-off compliance theatre exercise.
FAQ
Can I publish a statement before everything is fixed?
Yes, if it is honest. State known limitations and the planned remediation. Do not claim full conformance while critical issues remain.
How often should an accessibility statement be updated?
At least after each significant audit or release, and commonly annually as part of a regular review cycle. Some national rules specify update expectations.
Does Axively provide legal advice?
No. Axively provides technical audit evidence and statement drafts. Legal wording and scope should be reviewed by your legal or compliance adviser when risk is material.