The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has taken a pioneering step in promoting inclusivity and accessibility

ReciteMe software offers a suite of features designed to cater to diverse needs, including the option for content to be read aloud in a natural voice. This functionality not only aids individuals with visual impairments but also supports those with dyslexia, making information more accessible and comprehensible.

Furthermore, ReciteMe boasts the capability to translate content into over 100 languages, effectively breaking down language barriers and expanding the reach of the BSB website to the one in ten people in the UK who do not speak English as their first language. This multilingual functionality enhances the website's accessibility and ensures that legal information is accessible to all members of society.

The software's versatility extends to reading aid tools tailored to assist individuals with learning disabilities. Additionally, its styling and customisation features provide flexibility in adapting the website's appearance, catering to the needs of neurodivergent individuals.

Mark Neale, Director General of the Bar Standards Board, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasising the organisation's commitment to promoting equality, access, and inclusivity. Neale underscored the significance of the software in bridging accessibility gaps and facilitating equitable access to legal information for individuals with disabilities, those whose first language is not English, and neurodivergent individuals.

The integration of ReciteMe software underscores the BSB's dedication to fostering an inclusive legal profession and ensuring that legal resources are accessible to all members of society. By embracing innovative solutions, the BSB sets a precedent for other legal regulators to follow suit, advancing accessibility and inclusivity within the legal sector.