Easy Read is a way of presenting text in a highly simplified and visual way. It’s particularly designed for people with intellectual and learning disabilities, low English proficiency or low literacy.
An Easy Read document is split into 2 columns. Images are placed on the left, paired with directly relevant text on the right. This image is carefully selected to help convey the meaning of the text.
The text is also set at a larger font size than usual.
Here is an example of a text and image pair:
More examples of Easy Read pages: Easy Read hub.
Easy Read pages are often printed, so the layout works well as a handout.
Easy Reads are useful for lots of people. They display vital information in a convenient format that is approachable and easy to scan.
However, Easy Reads may not suit all audiences. A target user group might prefer another format, such as a checklist or a video.
Before creating Easy Reads
Easy Read resources require careful consideration in the choice of language and images.
It is important to question what the best format is for your audience. If you are not sure whether you need an Easy Read, undertake or review your user research to find out.
Easy Read documents should also be tested with your intended audience before being published, to ensure they are fit for purpose.
To ensure the content is created correctly, it should be developed in collaboration with an Easy Read vendor. Agency partners can obtain these services from vendors listed on buy.nsw.gov.au.
If you do decide to proceed with creating Easy Read content, refer to the instructions on creating an Easy Read page in the CMS.
More information
- Easy Read - Australian Government Style Manual
- Easy Read | Online Accessibility Toolkit – Government of South Australia
- Accessible communication formats - GOV.UK
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