How can I make social media posts Easy Read?

Making your social media posts easy to read involves several strategies:

1. Use Clear and Concise Language: Keep your sentences short and straightforward. Avoid using complex words or jargon that may be difficult to understand.
2. Utilise Bulleted or Numbered Lists: Organize information into lists to make it easier for readers to scan and digest key points.
3. Include Visuals: Incorporate images, videos, or infographics to visually reinforce your message and enhance understanding.
4. Provide Context: Offer brief explanations or summaries to provide context for your posts, especially when discussing complex topics.
5. Use Plain Language: Opt for simple, everyday language that is accessible to a wide audience. Avoid slang or abbreviations that may be unfamiliar to some readers.
6. Highlight Important Information: Use formatting techniques such as bold text or emojis to draw attention to key points or calls to action.
7. Consider Accessibility: Ensure that your posts are accessible to individuals with disabilities by providing alternative text for images and using features like closed captions for videos.
8. Engage Your Audience: Encourage interaction and feedback from your followers by asking questions or prompting them to share their thoughts and experiences.

By implementing these strategies, you can create social media posts that are easy to read, engaging, and accessible to a diverse audience.

How are people that struggle to read excluced from social media?

People who struggle to read can face exclusion from social media platforms for several reasons:

1. Complex Language: Social media content often includes complex language, slang, or abbreviations that may be difficult for individuals with low literacy levels or cognitive disabilities to understand.
2. Visual Content Dominance: While images and videos are prevalent on social media, they may not always include alternative text or captions, making them inaccessible to individuals who are blind or have visual impairments.
3. Limited Accessibility Features: Some social media platforms may lack robust accessibility features, such as screen reader compatibility or adjustable font sizes, making it challenging for users with disabilities to navigate and interact with content.
4. Inaccessible Interfaces: Complex or cluttered interfaces can pose barriers to individuals with cognitive disabilities or learning difficulties, making it difficult for them to access and engage with social media content.
5. Digital Divide: Socioeconomic factors can also contribute to exclusion, as individuals from marginalized communities may lack access to reliable internet connections, devices, or digital literacy skills necessary to participate fully in social media.

Addressing these challenges requires social media platforms to prioritise accessibility by implementing features such as plain language guidelines, alternative text options for images, customizable interface settings, and inclusive design practices.

Additionally, promoting digital literacy and providing resources for individuals with diverse needs can help bridge the gap and create a more inclusive online environment.