Macclesfield agency appointed to help build NHS online services

Macclesfield based UX design and development agency, Sigma, has been appointed to support the NHS improve the accessibility and inclusivity of its online products and services.

Sigma will help the NHS launch its first Digital Accessibility lab, allowing the NHS’s developers to test their technology and ensure it is suitable for users with disabilities.

The lab will be based in Leeds and Sigma will work with the NHS digital team to fix common accessibility barriers on its apps and websites before release. UX specialists from the Macclesfield agency will help the NHS staff decide considerations in ensuring websites and apps are inclusive, as well as support on software and tools available.

Hilary Stephenson, Managing Director at Sigma UK, said:

It is great to work with NHS Digital and assist its developers with accessibility, and the experience of visitors to its websites and apps. Considering its products are some of the most widely used in the UK, the Accessibility Lab is vital to ensuring as many people as possible can use the technology it develops, seamlessly. Not only are the websites and apps used frequently but they are important to maintaining and improving the health and wellbeing of millions.

“The public sector is undergoing a major digital transformation and it is important to ensure that no demographic or single service user is left behind, and that all platforms are fully optimised to maximise accessibility.”

Matt Edgar, Director of Design and User Research at NHS Digital, said:

NHS services are for everyone, so it is important to make sure they can be accessed by all users, regardless of their level of ability. Accessibility and inclusion must be at the heart of all our design and development. That goes for the services we deliver for health and social care staff, patients and the public. The new facility at Bridgewater Place will allow us to create products that meet and exceed the accessibility standards for website and apps.

“We’re looking forward to making full use of the equipment in the lab and guidance from Sigma in order to make sure our online products and services are compatible with assistive technology, and can be accessed by as many members of the public as possible.”