News Archive - Audio Website

Thurrock Council's award winning website is now even more accessible after new audio software was added.
Residents of Thurrock with speakers or headphones on their computer will now be able to hear as well as view important information on www.thurrock.gov.uk without having to buy expensive software.
Thurrock Council is providing a choice of two services, ReadSpeaker and Browsealoud, which work in very different ways and will give residents the freedom to select the service that works best for them.
The costs of bringing in this new software is being kept low because it has been arranged through a negotiated discount with neighbouring authorities, emergency services and other partner organisations in the Essex Online Partnership.
Leader of Thurrock Council, Terry Hipsey, who has responsibility for IT, said: "Thurrock Council is already rated as having one of the most accessible web sites in the country after it was awarded the RNIB 'see it right' logo.
"I am proud to say the site is now even better and I am glad even more residents of Thurrock will be able to benefit from the vast amount of useful information on the site."
Thurrock Council's Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Business, Culture, Leisure and Central Services, Councillor Gareth Davies said: " "The new audio service will not only help visually impaired residents, but can also act as a teaching tool to residents who have difficulties with both literacy and learning.
"The new software will add to the Council's range of accessible services by removing barriers for residents wanting to use the web."