Accessibility Specialist

Employer 1
Parliamentary Digital Service
Directorate 1
Products
Band / Grade 1
B1
Salary 1
£41,340 - £47,975
Contract Type 1
Fixed Term
Contract Length 1
18 Months - FTC
Location 1
Hybrid (on-site and remote)
Security Level 1
Counter Terrorism Check (CTC)
Job Description 1
B1 - Accessibility Specialist JD (Product).docx – 76KB
Converted File B1 - Accessibility Specialist JD (Product).docx.pdf – 83KB
Additional File 1
Candidate Information Pack.pdf – 1125KB
1

The Opportunity

Put accessibility at the heart of all we do by supporting accessibility initiatives across the Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS). Working alongside people within the product directorate, you will help to embed accessibility across digital touchpoints and journeys, and support teams to design and deliver digital products and services in an inclusive and accessible way. As part of this new team, you’ll be involved in work of national importance, helping UK democracy function more efficiently and more transparently. Supporting the development and delivery of a Parliament-wide accessibility strategy and roadmap, you can expect to:

act as a subject matter expert for digital accessibility, providing expert consultancy to Product teams
support a culture of responsibility for accessibility, complementing existing accessibility initiatives and providing coaching and mentoring
contribute to the review of internal processes, helping to integrate accessibility into digital standards and the full lifecycle of products and services
support the upskilling of product teams and provide input to training and coaching
work closely with user research, design, training, HR and insight functions to drive a deeper understanding of user needs
contribute to accessibility networks within and outside Parliament

What You Need

We’re looking for people who are passionate about creating accessible and inclusive services and who have the interpersonal skills to build relationships and bring people together. You’ll be aware of best practice and compliance requirements (WCAG) and be equipped to advocate for those affected by accessibility barriers. You will also:

be aware of technical solutions to a range of accessibility issues, including assistive technologies
have a strong user focus and be able to engage with customers and stakeholders to gather evidence to support decision-making
have experience of shaping communications relevant to the audience, including the ability to train and coach others
be ready to influence and challenge others and to resolve disputes

About The Team

The Product Directorate in PDS is working to digitise our democracy by designing, supporting, and improving our products and services with the aim of making things easier and better for users. Our work spans a range of back-end and front-end products and services aimed at meeting the needs and expectations of Members of Parliament and their staff, alongside other important groups including Parliamentary staff, government officials, journalists and the public.

About Us

UK Parliament is steeped in history and tradition. It is an important part of UK life and we need to ensure as many people as possible can engage with its work. This is why we are at the start of a huge transformation programme powered by technology. The Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS) works with the House of Commons and the House of Lords with all their IT and digital needs. We are here to realise the digital ambitions of a modern Parliament and welcome you to join us in building a digital democracy.

Our Package

Please refer to our Candidate Information Pack for a full list of our benefits which include:

up to 35 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays
generous maternity pay policy up to 6 months full pay
great pension scheme options (contributory and non-contributory)
on-site subsidised gym, nursery, catering, post office, travel office and GP
flexible options including hybrid working and family friendly policies

How To Apply

Please make sure you're clear on the requirements of the role. These can be found in the Job Description and Candidate Information Pack. You will need to upload a CV and show write a response in 500words to the question "What are your credentials in Accessibility? And why is Accessibility important to you?". Our application process is anonymous, so please remove any personal information from your CV.

Apply By: 7th January 2024 at 23:55

Interviews: W/C 15th January

Format: Panel Interview (Remote)

Our Culture

For our people, we provide an amazing opportunity to bring their talents to an institution that sits right at the heart of society in the UK. We are helping to change UK Parliament and strengthen democracy. What matters here is your potential for growth and your commitment to playing your part in our ongoing success.

We are passionate about providing an environment which promotes inclusion, diversity and equality. Regardless of your age, gender, ethnicity, beliefs or any of the other things that make you, you. We welcome applications from people who feel under-represented in the workforce. This includes those who may feel disadvantaged because of their socioeconomic circumstances.