Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Bournemouth

Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Bournemouth

Bournemouth Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Develop and implement assistive technology solutions to enhance accessibility for Parliament staff.
  • Company: Join the UK Parliament's Digital Delivery team, transforming democracy through technology.
  • Benefits: Enjoy up to 35 days annual leave, flexible working, and a great pension scheme.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusion and equality in the workplace.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference by promoting digital confidence and independence for users with accessibility needs.
  • Qualifications: Extensive knowledge of assistive technologies and accessibility standards required.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

The Assistive Technology specialist will develop and deliver initiatives to strengthen the assistive technology offer and support and enable Members (MPs and Peers) and Parliamentary staff with different accessibility needs in their work day-to-day. The role will sit at the intersection of technology, accessibility, and customer support.

Working in partnership with the Providing Digital Technology 'Value Stream' (multi-disciplinary working group), you will lead on the provision, development, and implementation of assistive technology solutions, ensuring accessibility is embedded into our provisioning and digital support offer. You will build internal capability and familiarity with a wide range of assistive software and hardware solutions. You will support the End User Service and other customer-facing teams to develop the skills needed to be able to recommend appropriate technologies, including assistive technologies to customers with accessibility requirements. You may also be required to provide support installing and using assistive technologies.

  • Assess, recommend, and oversee assistive technology solutions (e.g. screen readers, voice input systems, alternative input devices, magnifiers) tailored to meet the diverse needs of users.
  • Conduct expert in-depth user assessments to determine optimal assistive technology configurations that enhance accessibility and user independence.
  • Partner with multi-disciplinary teams to embed accessibility considerations at every stage of product design and development, in line with WCAG and UK accessibility legislation.
  • Collaborate with PDS's customers in both Houses (Commons and Lords) and the Administration to deliver tailored training and support, promoting digital confidence and independence among users of assistive technologies.
  • Provide expert advice on reasonable adjustments, inclusive procurement practices, and end-to-end lifecycle management of assistive technologies.
  • Lead and co-ordinate accessibility audits of software, systems, and hardware with a strong focus on compatibility with assistive technologies.

What You Need

  • Extensive knowledge of assistive technologies and accessibility standards (WCAG 2.2, EN 301 549).
  • In-depth understanding of common operating systems, digital platforms and how assistive technologies integrate.
  • Able to assess the accessibility of tools and systems.
  • Interest in emerging Assistive Technology solutions and understanding their potential in the organisational setting.
  • Ability to understand and assess individual accessibility requirements.
  • Can select appropriate technology to provide inclusive experiences and remove barriers.
  • Able to diagnose issues with Assistive Technology tools and propose effective solutions.
  • Able to engage with a broad range of colleagues and stakeholders including users, reasonable adjustment specialists, and occupational health.
  • Experience advocating for accessibility outside of your team and managing differing perspectives.
  • Excellent planning and organisational skills with a methodical approach to prioritising work to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to work well within the immediate team (the Digital Accessibility Team) and the wider networks (e.g. Communities of Practise, Champions Network), upholding the values of equality, inclusion, and diversity.
  • Ability to develop strong relationships with assistive technology suppliers, specialist partners, and internal teams and stakeholders.
  • Able to keep up to date with advances in technology and manage the lifecycle of assistive technology solutions.
  • The ability to pass security clearance, backed by the right to work in the UK.

About The Team

The Digital Delivery team in PDS is working to digitise our democracy by designing, supporting, and improving our products and services with the aim of making these easier and better for users. Our work spans a range of back-end and front-end products aimed at meeting the needs and expectations of Members of Parliament and their staff, alongside other important groups including Parliamentary staff, government officials, journalists, and the public. You will be part of the Digital Accessibility Team, contributing to the delivery of the Digital Accessibility Strategy, designed to deliver an inclusive digital environment where everyone can access Parliament's information and services.

About Us

UK Parliament is steeped in history and tradition. It is an important part of UK life and we need to ensure as many people as possible can engage with its work. This is why we are at the start of a huge transformation programme powered by technology. The Parliamentary Digital Service (PDS) works with the House of Commons and the House of Lords with all their IT and digital needs. We are here to realise the digital ambitions of a modern Parliament and welcome you to join us in building a digital democracy.

Our Package

Please refer to our Candidate Information Pack for a full list of our benefits which include:

  • Up to 35 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays.
  • Generous maternity pay policy up to 6 months full pay.
  • Great pension scheme options (contributory and non-contributory).
  • On-site subsidised gym, nursery, catering, post office, travel office and GP.
  • Flexible options including hybrid working and family friendly policies.

How To Apply

Please make sure you're clear on the requirements of the role. These can be found in the Job Description and Candidate Information Pack. You will need to upload a CV and show how you meet criterions 1 and 2. Our application process is anonymous, so please remove any personal information from your CV.

Apply By: Interviews: 9th December 2025 Format: Presentation + Panel Interview (Remote)

Our Culture

For our people, we provide an amazing opportunity to bring their talents to an institution that sits right at the heart of society in the UK. We are helping to change UK Parliament and strengthen democracy. What matters here is your potential for growth and your commitment to playing your part in our ongoing success.

We are passionate about providing an environment which promotes inclusion, diversity and equality. Regardless of your age, gender, ethnicity, beliefs or any of the other things that make you, you. We welcome applications from people who feel under-represented in the workforce. This includes those who may feel disadvantaged because of their socioeconomic circumstances.

Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Bournemouth employer: PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE

UK Parliament offers a unique opportunity for an Accessibility Specialist to contribute to a transformative digital journey at the heart of democracy. With a strong commitment to inclusion and diversity, employees benefit from generous leave policies, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. Join us in making Parliament accessible for all while enjoying a range of on-site amenities and a comprehensive benefits package.

PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE

Contact Details:

PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Bournemouth

Get to Know the Company Culture

Before jumping into applications, it’s super helpful to understand the vibe at PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE. Check out their social media, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and see how they engage with customers. It'll give you clues on their values and help tailor your conversation during interviews.

Join Customer Support Communities

Dive into online communities like those on Reddit or LinkedIn where customer support pros hang out. Participating in discussions or asking questions can make you more visible to potential recruiters and help you learn about job openings at companies like PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE before they even post them.

Attend Job Fairs or Networking Events

Look out for local job fairs or events specifically for customer support roles. This is your chance to meet hiring managers face-to-face, and you might even get the opportunity to interview on the spot!

Show Off Your Skills with Customer Interactions

In the customer support world, showcasing your communication skills is key. Consider creating a short video introducing yourself or even doing a mock call to showcase your abilities. It's a memorable way to stand out, especially if you can share this during your interview process!

We think you need these skills to ace Accessibility Specialist (Assistive Technology) in Bournemouth

Assistive Technology Knowledge
Accessibility Standards (WCAG 2.2, EN 301 549)
User Assessment Skills
Technical Integration Skills
Problem Diagnosis and Solution Proposal
Stakeholder Engagement
Advocacy for Accessibility

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, clear communication is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had in customer-facing roles and your ability to resolve issues. Don't shy away from including specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers – this really shows your potential in the role.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you want to work at PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE specifically. Mention any unique aspects of our company that resonate with you and how your skills can enhance our customer support. This personal touch will set your application apart from the rest!

Highlight Any Relevant Tools or Tech Skills:If you've used customer support software like Zendesk or Freshdesk or have experience with CRM systems, make sure to mention these in your application. Being familiar with industry-standard tools can be a big plus for us when we’re reviewing applications, as it shows you can hit the ground running!

Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills:Customer support roles often require a knack for problem-solving. In your application, share examples of past experiences where you've tackled tough situations or resolved conflicts effectively. This will give us a good sense of how you handle challenges—an essential skill for success at PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE!

How to prepare for a job interview at PARLIAMENTARY DIGITAL SERVICE

Show Off Your People Skills

In customer support, it's all about communicating effectively. Prepare to share instances from your past experiences where you handled difficult customers or resolved conflicts. We want to hear how you empathised and found the best solutions, so think of specific examples to back up your stories!

Know the Tools of the Trade

Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk, and make sure to review how you’ve used any similar systems in the past. During the interview, being able to discuss your hands-on experience with software or ticketing systems can really set you apart from the competition, so don’t skip this prep!

Show Genuine Enthusiasm

As this is a full-time role, employers want someone who isn’t just looking for any job, but wants to grow within customer support. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping customers and your desire to develop your skills. Show them why you're passionate about this field!

Practice Common Scenarios

Be prepared for role-playing scenarios where you might have to reassess a solution with a frustrated customer or explain a complex process in simple terms. Practising these common scenarios can help us feel more confident and demonstrate our practical skills effectively during the interview.