Celebrating Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2025

The internet is part of almost everything we do now. It’s how we work, shop, learn, connect and share information. It has opened up opportunities that once would have been impossible for many.

But not everyone experiences the online world in the same way. Around one billion people across the globe live with a permanent or temporary disability. For these individuals, a poorly designed website can be more than frustrating. It can create real barriers, cutting them off from important conversations, services and communities.

Unfortunately, digital accessibility still has a long way to go. According to the WebAIM Million Report, 94.8% of website homepages have at least one accessibility issue. Problems such as low-contrast text, missing alt text on images, empty links and unlabelled form fields are still far too common. These might seem small to some, but they can completely prevent others from being able to use a website at all.

This is why Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) matters.

What is Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)?

Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) is held every year on the third Thursday in May. In 2025, it will take place on Thursday 15 May.

GAAD began in 2012 when a group of developers, designers and accessibility advocates recognised the need to raise greater awareness around digital inclusion. Since then, it has grown into an international event, encouraging people and organisations to:

• Host events, workshops and webinars that promote accessibility best practices
• Prioritise inclusive design when developing websites, apps and digital services
• Share resources and training to help others improve accessibility
• Work alongside disability advocacy groups to help remove barriers online

GAAD is a reminder that accessibility is everyone’s responsibility. Even small changes can make a big difference to someone’s experience online.

If you would like to take part, you can find out more about events and initiatives at the Global Accessibility Awareness Day website.

Creating a More Inclusive Digital World

Awareness is only the first step. True progress happens when we turn that awareness into action. For website owners, that means taking a closer look at how your site works for every visitor, not just the majority. It means thinking about whether everyone can find information, use your services and interact with your content in the way you intend.

If you’re not sure where to begin, an accessibility audit is a good place to start. Our audit shows you how your website measures up against the latest Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and how it performs with assistive technologies.

We present our findings in a detailed report that highlights any barriers we find, what they mean and shows how they could affect users with disabilities. You’ll also receive a structured remediation plan, giving you a clear pathway towards a more accessible and inclusive website.

If you would like to find out more about our accessibility audit services or how we can support you in building a more accessible website, please contact us.