Easy Read guidance

Easy Read is a format that helps to make written information more inclusive and easy to understand. It follows a specific format whereby content is split into blocks that contain simplified copy, alongside clear images that support the words chosen.

This format makes digesting information much easier for people that have learning disabilities or people that find reading and writing hard. It can also be really helpful when English is not someone's first language.

Easy Read copy

The language used in Easy Read surveys should be easy to understand and interpret.

This means:

• Write simple, short sentences
• Avoid using jargon
• Focus on using softer language that is more encouraging, for example ‘You are on Page 1 of 4. Please keep going.’ rather than ‘Page 1 of 4’.
• Use direct language 'We will send you a letter' rather than only 'a letter will be sent'
• Include no more than 15-20 words per key statement or section
• Each block of text should only try to convey one thing
• Use bold and bullet points where appropriate to highlight important information
• Avoid italics and embedding content
• Don’t link to any content that is not Easy Read
• Have a maximum of 10 pages in the survey

Easy Read images

Choosing the right image is very important. When done right, Easy Read images should be understood by anyone, regardless of whether they can speak the language or if they can read. However, when it comes to more complex surveys and consultations, images alone are limited in how much they can convey which is why images and copy are best together.

There are a few options when it comes to choosing images. These include:

• Use the default images provided by Citizen Space
• Work with Easy Read specialists such as Easy Read Online or Easy and Clear to create images for the survey
• Use a supplier, such as Photosymbols who provide an image bank

Find out more

To find out more about how best to create an Easy Read activity, have a look at UKAAF guidelines.