How to make web pages accessible

Government Digital Service (GDS) advice on tables says:

'Tables should only be used to present data. Do not use tables for cosmetic changes to layout, for example to present a list because you think it looks better that way'.

When you use a table to present data on a web page, it must have:

• No split, merged, or empty cells
• A formatted header row
• A reading order that makes sense

Why tables need to be accessible

Inaccessible tables are difficult for people using:

• A mobile or tablet - over 60% of www.norfolk.gov.uk users use these devices
• Screen readers - they need tables set out in a certain way to understand them
• Only a keyboard - some people are not able to use a mouse and only use a keyboard to navigate

How to make tables accessible on a web page

Read Web AIM's guidance on how to create accessible tables.