Forest Pathways

Who, what and why are Forest Pathways.

We are a digital accessibility organisation in the Forest of Dean working with the Barnwood Trust, Forest Voluntary Action Forum (FVAF), and Digital Accessibility, Inclusion, Support and Innovation (Daisi).

We have spent many months and Barnwood many years researching digital accessibility in the Forest of Dean. We examined:

Physical

The physical aspects of accessing the internet, broadband, fibre optic and mobile access in the Forest of Dean and how does this compare county wide and nationally. Generally poor.

Mental

How people engage with digital services. Many elderly people struggle with fear being the top concern.

Technical

What is the state of websites relevant to the Forest of Dean. How accessible are they. Again poor on the whole.

Forest Pathways want the Forest of Dean to be playing a crucial role in ensuring that the digital world is inclusive and accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. Starting here in the forest we are working tirelessly to advocate for accessibility, educate and inform the public, and promote the development and implementation of accessible technologies and practices.

Here are some of the key reasons why digital accessibility organizations are important:

Promoting Inclusion and Equity. Digital accessibility organisations champion the inclusion of people with disabilities in the digital realm, ensuring that they have equal access to information, communication, and opportunities. This fosters a more equitable society where everyone can fully participate in the digital age.
Enhancing User Experience: Digital accessibility organizations strive to improve the overall user experience for everyone, including those with disabilities. By advocating for accessible design principles and practices, they contribute to the creation of user-friendly products and services that cater to diverse needs and abilities.
Addressing Legal Requirements: In many countries, there are legal mandates requiring organisations to make their digital products and services accessible to people with disabilities.

Digital accessibility organizations help organizations understand and comply with these legal requirements, avoiding potential legal disputes and ensuring that their digital offerings are accessible to all.
Driving Innovation and Growth: By promoting accessibility, digital accessibility organizations encourage businesses and organizations to innovate and develop inclusive solutions that cater to a broader audience. This can lead to new market opportunities, increased customer satisfaction, and a stronger competitive advantage.
Educating and Raising Awareness: Digital accessibility organizations play a vital role in educating the public, businesses, and policymakers about the importance of digital accessibility. They raise awareness of accessibility issues, dispel misconceptions, and promote understanding of the benefits of inclusive design.
Advocating for Policy Changes: Digital accessibility organizations advocate for policies and regulations that support the development and implementation of accessible technologies and practices. They engage with government agencies, industry leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure that accessibility is prioritized in the digital landscape.
Providing Resources and Support: Digital accessibility organizations offer a wealth of resources and support to individuals, organizations, and policymakers. They provide guidance, tools, and training to help individuals with disabilities access digital content and empower organizations to create inclusive products and services.

In conclusion, digital accessibility organizations are indispensable advocates for a more inclusive and accessible digital world. Their efforts promote equity, enhance user experience, drive innovation, and contribute to a more just and accessible society for all.

Wye Dean Wellbeing

Forest Pathways

Physical

Mental

Technical

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