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Ally Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement for Ally

University College Dublin (UCD) is committed to making its accessibility tool, Anthology Ally accessible, in accordance with the European Union (Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications of Public Sector Bodies) Regulations 2025.

This accessibility statement applies to the Anthology All, an accessibility Tool (Version 1 as on 02 December 2025) hosted by University College Dublin.

Getting the most from this site

Anthology Ally is a tool that enables students to access accessible learning content in the format of their choice.The tool is integrated within the UCD Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) Brightspace and can only be accessed from within specific modules. Instructors have access to the Ally reports that enable them to gain insights into the accessibility scoring of module content in the UCD VLE, and rectify any accessibility issues that arise from the uploaded learning materials. 

For more information contact UCD Access & Lifelong Learning: (opens in a new window)all@ucd.ie

Compliance status

Anthology Ally is compliant with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level A and AA.

Advanced Technical Information

For information on accessibility features please go to the following link: 

(opens in a new window)https://help.blackboard.com/Ally/Ally_for_LMS/Administrator/Accessibility_in_Ally

Evaluation Methods

The tool underwent testing on a representative sample of user flows, features, and components to assess conformance to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2. This test was conducted on a representative sample of workflows including instructor feedback, alternative formats, and Administrator reports and configuration using manual and automated testing tools and techniques, and assistive technology. The tools and applications utilised throughout testing included NVDA, Google Chrome, Axe Dev Tools, WebAim’s Contrast Checker, browser inspection tools, and Stylus browser extension.

Content not in scope of this documentation

  • third-party content
  • reproductions of items in heritage collections that cannot be made fully accessible

Preparation of this accessibility statement

This statement was prepared by UCD IT Services at University College Dublin on 09 October 2025 

 Version 1 published: 4th December 2025.

Feedback and contact information

If you have any concerns in relation to how the Anthology Ally is compliant with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Level A and AA we would appreciate it if you could contact UCD IT Services as a first port of call to discuss any concerns by logging a call via www.ucd.ie/ithelp and selecting “Get Help”.

Anthology Ally 

UCD strives to be a model of inclusion. We respect and value student diversity in all the modules we offer. Our learning environment is designed inclusively, so that it can be accessed, understood, and used to the greatest extent possible, removing all barriers. Students are provided with equal opportunities to access, participate, and succeed, regardless of background, personal circumstances, age, disability, or pace of study. UCD is a university for all where diversity and inclusion are woven into the fabric of our institution at every level. Students are encouraged to approach staff to discuss their learning needs. Any information disclosed will be treated with confidentiality and respect (UCD 2022c).

Students with documented disabilities can register with the UCD Access office - (opens in a new window)disability@ucd.ie. Please try to alert Module Coordinators if you need any specific accommodation at the start of the module. Students without documented disabilities who may need accommodations can discuss this with Module Coordinators  privately or set a meeting to discuss specific needs (UCD 2022d).

Enforcement procedure

If you experience barriers in accessing this platform or its content and are not satisfied with the way we respond to support your access, you can contact, 

The Workplace Relations Commission -
(opens in a new window)Contact Workplace relations | Advice on (opens in a new window)making a complaint under the Equal Status Act

How we are improving accessibility

University College Dublin has invested in digital accessibility in the following ways.

  • Ensuring accessibility is a key criterion in all digital procurement. 
  • Investing in the ALLY system to provide automated accessibility checking and reporting of both our digital platforms and the content uploaded to them.
  • Optional staff training and development in digital accessibility practices.
Support Hub Homepage

Further Support

The UCD IT Support Hub is where you can log a call with our UCD IT Helpdesk team, find an answer in our Knowledge Base of articles, or request an additional service or access.

UCD IT Services

Computer Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.

Contact us via the UCD IT Support Hub: www.ucd.ie/ithelp