Filmster Network (“we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to ensuring digital inclusion and accessibility for all users, irrespective of ability, impairment, or assistive technology preference. This Accessibility Policy outlines our commitment, design standards, implementation practices, testing approaches, and ongoing responsibilities to provide an accessible experience across our website, applications, tools, documentation, and collaborative features (collectively, “the Platform”).
This Policy aligns with recognised international accessibility standards, including the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 at level AA, UK accessibility regulations, and relevant global accessibility best practices.
1. Our Commitment to Accessibility
Filmster Network believes diversity and inclusion extend to the digital experience. Accessibility is a fundamental principle in our design, development, content creation, and support processes. We aim to:
- Ensure that all users can perceive, navigate, interact with, and contribute through the Platform.
- Provide equitable access to features such as collaboration workspaces, project tools, profiles, media playback, and interactive elements.
- Continuously identify and remove barriers that might limit access for users with disabilities.
2. Standards and Guidelines
2.1 Accessibility Standards
We commit to meeting the following accessibility standards:
- WCAG 2.1 Level AA as a baseline for all public-facing and interactive content.
- ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) best practices for dynamic content and custom widgets.
- Where applicable, accessibility outcomes aligned with Section 508 (US), Equality Act 2010 (UK), and other regional legislation.
2.2 Inclusive Content Principles
Accessible content creation principles include:
- Clear, concise language with appropriate structure and headings.
- Alternative text for meaningful images and media descriptions.
- Closed captions and transcripts for audio and video content.
- Sufficient colour contrast and scalable typography.
- Keyboard accessibility for all interactive controls.
3. Design and Development Practices
Filmster Network embeds accessibility into the product lifecycle:
3.1 User-Centred Design
- Accessibility requirements are defined early in feature planning and user experience frameworks.
- Design prototypes are evaluated for accessibility considerations prior to implementation.
3.2 Frontend Implementation
- Semantic HTML and ARIA landmarks are used where appropriate.
- Interactive elements are operable via keyboard navigation.
- Focus indicators, skip links, and logical tab sequences are standard.
3.3 Media Accessibility
- Videos include captions and, where feasible, audio descriptions.
- Transcripts are provided for audio content.
- Media players support accessible controls and keyboard operation.
3.4 Assistive Technology Compatibility
We test and optimise for compatibility with assistive technologies, including but not limited to:
- Screen readers (e.g., NVDA, JAWS, VoiceOver)
- Keyboard navigation
- Magnification and high-contrast modes
- Speech recognition tools
4. Accessibility Testing and Quality Assurance
4.1 Automated and Manual Testing
Accessibility testing is integrated into our release process:
- Automated tools check against WCAG 2.1 AA criteria.
- Manual testing with assistive technology simulations.
- Expert reviews by accessibility auditors.
4.2 User Feedback and Correction
We value input from users with lived experience of disability:
- Users may report accessibility issues via the accessibility feedback form or support channels.
- Reported issues are prioritised and responded to promptly.
- Remediation timelines are communicated transparently.
5. Ongoing Monitoring and Improvement
Accessibility is not a one-time project; it is an ongoing commitment:
- Periodic accessibility audits are conducted across the Platform.
- Updates to accessibility standards are monitored, and compliance is maintained.
- Internal training and awareness programmes support inclusive design practices among product, design, and engineering teams.
6. Exemptions and Limitations
In rare cases, certain content or third-party integrations may temporarily fall short of WCAG 2.1 AA criteria due to technical constraints.
In these cases:
- We will document accessibility limitations and provide alternative experiences where possible.
- We will prioritise remediation in future releases.
Such exceptions do not diminish our overall commitment to accessibility.
7. Reporting Accessibility Issues
Users can report accessibility concerns or request assistance at any time. Reports should include:
- The URL or specific location in the Platform where the issue occurred.
- A description of the barrier encountered.
- Information about device, browser, or assistive technology used (optional).
Submit reports to:
Accessibility Support
Email: accessibility@filmster.network
We aim to respond to all accessibility reports within 5 business days and provide updates on remediation progress.
8. Training and Organisational Responsibility
Filmster Network ensures that staff and contractors involved in product design, content creation, quality assurance, and project leadership receive ongoing accessibility training, including:
- WCAG principles and success criteria
- Assistive technology use and testing
- Inclusive language and content creation
- Accessibility risk assessment and mitigation
Accessibility performance is part of our internal quality benchmarks.
9. Third-Party Content and Integrations
Where the Platform integrates third-party content, tools, or services:
- We encourage partners and vendors to meet comparable accessibility standards.
- Where compliance cannot be fully guaranteed, we strive to provide accessible alternatives or mitigations.
- Users will be informed where third-party components may not fully conform to WCAG criteria.
10. Legal and Regulatory Context
This Policy aligns with regional and international legal obligations, including:
- Equality Act 2010 (UK)
- UK Accessibility Regulations (Public Sector Bodies)
- EU Web Accessibility Directive and related standards
- Accessibility obligations under GDPR and related privacy frameworks
- Relevant provisions of US accessibility law and guidance
Where local law provides stronger protections or requirements, the more protective standard applies.
11. Review and Policy Updates
We will review and update this Accessibility Policy at least annually or when accessibility standards evolve significantly. Updates will be reflected in the “Last updated” date at the top of this document and, where material changes occur, communicated to users.
12. Contact Information
For accessibility support, feedback, or queries:
Accessibility Team
Filmster Network Limited