I have slightly adapted them for internal use with the consent of the RNIB and over the past year have publicised their use through our intranet, gentle reminders and advice to individuals and mass emails. We also included them as one of our Disability Equality Scheme objectives. I am now working on changing the default document templates on our computer systems from the basic Microsoft Times New Roman formatting to 'Arial' to promote wider use but this will require policy changes in our IT Dept so is taking a bit longer. One significant gain was getting the secretariat to produce all meeting minutes in 12 point Arial.

Another accessibility initiative we are promoting is to provide alternative Rich Text Format or 'Word' versions for all documents published as PDF. This enables the widest use of screenreader software. The take up on this has also been quite good.

Overall, we have found that promoting Clear Print and document accessibility is a good way to spread the message of accessibility generally - it makes people think about their potential readership and the feedback has been universally positive. Many people who have mislaid their reading glasses for just a moment report immediate benefits!

We have had success in the way we have approached it: 1. make a policy decision, 2. Don't make a fanfare about it, but roll it out gradually and using key publications (e.g. minutes) - let the clearer communication send its own message.

I'm a great fan but unfortunately I'm still struggling with the default format for my emails!!

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Anthony Houldsworth
Diversity and Disability Advisor
The Institute of Cancer Research
Sir Richard Doll Building
15 Cotswold Road,
Sutton, SM2 5NG
DL: 020 8722 4129
Tel: 020 7352 8133 Extn 4129
Fax: 020 8722 4048
Email: [log in to unmask]

>>> [log in to unmask] 06/07/2007 08:57:49 >>>

Dear all

We are having discussions about font sizes used in external documents. I know that guidance is that we should use 12pt as a minimum in order to reach as many people as possible and that is what I have advised.

I have been asked to find out what other institutions do so any information would be gratefully received.

If you want to reply off-line my contact details are below.

Penny

Penny Alder

Equality and Diversity Advisor

Human Resources Department

University College for the Creative Arts at Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, Maidstone and Rochester

Tel:+44 (0)1252 892997

Web: www.ucreative.co.uk

Formed on 1 August 2005 through the uniting of two leading specialist art and design institutions: Kent Institute of Art & Design and The Surrey Institute of Art & Design, University College.

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