Accessibility compliance is a starting point, not a destination. A multi-year partnership helped LFRS build the knowledge, processes and confidence to make inclusion a sustained organisational commitment rather than a sporadic checkpoint.
- Who: Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service
- What: Multi-year accessibility support
- How: WCAG compliance checking, accessibility user testing and accessibility training
- Result: WCAG compliant internal and external digital services and a accessible-first culture
Background
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) is committed to delivering inclusive digital services for all users, whether that’s staff accessing internal systems or residents finding safety advice online.
What we did
We began our work with LFRS in 2022, carrying out a comprehensive WCAG audit of their existing public website. The aim was clear: ensure compliance with the Public Sector Bodies (Websites and Mobile Applications) Accessibility Regulations (PSBAR) and deliver an accessible service to all. Our audit uncovered key issues around navigation, screen reader compatibility, and colour contrast. We translated these into actionable improvements prioritised by impact and ease of implementation.
In early 2023, our focus shifted inwards. We conducted accessibility reviews of internal systems used by staff, recognising that inclusive access doesn’t stop at public-facing platforms. These reviews looked at usability across a range of needs and devices, ensuring day-to-day tools met the same high accessibility standards.
Later that year, as LFRS began developing a brand-new website, we were embedded in the process from day one. Working closely with their development agency, we carried out regular WCAG compliance checks during the build, supported iterative improvements, and led inclusive user testing. This ensured accessibility was built in from the ground up, not retrofitted at the end.
Finally, in 2025, we delivered a comprehensive programme of accessibility training to help embed inclusive thinking across the organisation. These sessions were delivered both remotely and in person, reaching teams across the organisation. We covered everything from writing accessible content and designing for neurodiversity to testing techniques and legal requirements.
Outcomes and impact
We’ve helped LFRS go beyond compliance. Their new website meets WCAG 2.2 AA standards, offers a vastly improved user experience for all audiences, and reflects their commitment to inclusion and service accessibility.
But the transformation goes deeper. Accessibility is now seen not as a compliance task, but as a shared responsibility. The training sessions have sparked meaningful change. Content creators, designers, and developers now consider access needs as standard, and senior stakeholders have championed accessibility as a strategic priority.
Because accessibility isn’t just about meeting regulations. It is about ensuring vital services are available to everyone, including people with disabilities, older adults, and those using assistive technology. And when public sector organisations like LFRS lead by example, they raise the bar for everyone.
“The training was delivered in a really engaging way and the content was specific to those who attended the course. Everyone I have spoken to has said that the training was interesting and they got something out of it. In less than three hours, I have been asked if this training could be repeated for other members of staff!”
Richard Edney, Communications Manager
More about these services
Find out more about our accessibility support packages