Accessible written information resources for adults with intellectual disability : compiling the evidence to inform good practice

Background: The 2006 United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities enshrines the right to access to information, and obliges signatory states to promote the “design, production and distribution of accessible information…” (Article 9). Furthermore, the United Nations’ 2030 Development Agenda focuses on establishing, among other things, “just, peaceful and inclusive societies by promoting public access to information” (Goal 16). While the importance of easy access to information is universally agreed, what defines accessible written information (AWI), and the extent to which information that is purported to be accessible remains in contention. Method: As the precursor to a larger project, a systematic review of the peer-reviewed literature was conducted. This was complemented by a review of the grey literature. The process was informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), and the Social Care Institute of Excellence (SCIE). Three primary research databases were used (Web of Science, Academic Search Complete, and ProQuest), as well as Google Scholar. Results: There was a paucity of empirical evidence to guide good practice. Many elements combine to make information accessible, including use of language and images as well as the formatting of documents and the materials used for the production of documents. However, there is no clear consensus that using pictures with text improves comprehension, even though this is common practice. Conclusions: Without accessible information, the rights of people with disability cannot be upheld. Using easy language and pictures is a good start. However, the creation of truly accessible information is far more complex. Technology might provide part of the answer, and better enable the individualisation of information. However, working with communication partners appears very important. Further research, to provide an evidence based for practice is required.