We helped Parasport connect and engage with more people through a web experience optimised for people with visual, hearing or mobility impairments. The site was put through its paces just two days after launch when a mention on TV generated a 20-fold increase in visitors.
The Challenge
Parasport is a charity which believes there is a sport for everyone. Developed by ParalympicsGB, one of their key aims is to create a buzzing community of players, parents and coaches involved with para sport. The web experience is packed full of information and listings, covering inclusive activities and events for disabled and able-bodied people alike.
When Toyota took over as the new corporate sponsor, the charity undertook a rebrand. They called Coherence to redesign and build their website, making it WCAG 2.1 AA compliant – ensuring it could be explored and understood easily by people living with impairments to their sight, hearing, movement, memory or thinking.
With the user at the forefront we approached the project through the lens of a potential or active participant. Content had to be focussed, clear and consistent as well as accessible through a wide variety of devices. We optimised the experience for assistive technologies such as screen readers and speech recognition software to ensure an accessible experience for all.
Our Approach
- User-Centric Design
We approached the project from the perspective of potential or active participants in para sports. This meant focusing on clear, consistent content that was easy to navigate. The website was designed to be accessible on a wide range of devices and optimised for assistive technologies such as screen readers and speech recognition software.
- Accessibility Compliance
To meet WCAG 2.1 AA compliance, we ensured the website was fully accessible to users with various impairments. This included designing for ease of navigation, ensuring content was clear and focused, and making sure the site worked seamlessly across desktop and mobile devices.
- Mobile-First Approach
Recognising the importance of mobile access, we adopted a mobile-first design strategy. This ensured that users accessing the site on smartphones—80% of visitors in the first week—had an equally seamless experience as those using larger screens.
Testimonial
“Working with Parasport to create a fully accessible website was an incredibly rewarding experience for our team at Coherence. Ensuring the site met the highest standards of accessibility while delivering a smooth, engaging experience for users was critical. The surge in traffic just days after launch showcased the robust design and performance of the site. We’re proud to have contributed to Parasport’s mission of inclusivity, making their digital platform truly accessible for everyone.”
Julian Tedstone
Managing Director, Coherence
The Outcome
The charity was mentioned in a popular Channel 4 show, just two days after launch. As a result, traffic suddenly increased 20-fold. The site coped easily, with no performance issues, and with 80% of people accessing the site on a smartphone in the first week, it was clear that our mobile-first approach was a success.
About Parasport
Parasport, developed by ParalympicsGB, is a charity dedicated to promoting inclusivity in sports. Its mission is to create a vibrant community of athletes, parents, and coaches involved in para sports by providing resources, event listings, and information on inclusive activities for disabled and able-bodied people alike.
