Primary typeface

The primary typeface is Roboto. Knowing that 60% of people accessing our services have a disability, it is critical that everything is clear and accessible. Roboto is a sans serif typeface that’s welcoming, but professional and clear.

Roboto is a free font and is available at Google fonts

Secondary typeface

The secondary typeface is Arial. This is used when Roboto is unavailable. For example, on letters and email correspondence.

Accessibility

Use the following checkpoints to ensure that all communication is accessible.

• use plain language and a minimum type size of 12 point, preferably 14 point
• justify type on the left
• don’t print sentences in block capitals
• allow for a half space between sub bullets
• avoid light fonts; use medium or bold
• use bold rather than upper case for emphasis
• avoid use of all upper case in both text and headings
• avoid underlining
• avoid use of italics or any mix of fonts
• word spacing should be even and left justified
• avoid hyphenation – words should not be divided or split across a line break
• the space between lines should be generous
• an ideal average line length should be between sixty and seventy characters per line
• avoid printing text over busy design – keep layouts clear and clean
• keep text and design separate – group information logically
• guide the user with a contents page and index
• do not range text around images
• allow a good margin around columns and use a vertical rule if space is tight
• page numbers and headings should be consistent
• use matt rather than glossy paper
• provide sufficient space for completion of boxes on forms, including ‘tick’ boxes
• make sure that numerals are clear