**Make your content readable for everyone by writing at a grade 8 level or below.** Use short sentences, active voice, and common words instead of complex terminology. Tools like Hemingway Editor help you measure and adjust readability instantly.
**Structure information with clear headings, bullet points, and white space.** Screen readers and people with cognitive disabilities navigate content more easily when you break up dense paragraphs. Each section should focus on one main idea, making your writing scannable and digestible.
**Describe images, links, and visual elements with descriptive text.** Write alt text that conveys meaning, not just what’s visible. Instead of “chart,” explain “bar chart showing 40% increase in remote work, 2020-2023.” This practice aligns with broader inclusive writing practices that benefit all readers.
**Choose fonts, colors, and formatting that accommodate visual impairments.** Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background, avoid color as the only way to convey information, and use minimum 16px font sizes for body text.
The demand for accessibility writing continues growing as organizations recognize that inclusive content reaches wider audiences and meets legal requirements. Canadian freelance writers who master these techniques position themselves for steady work across government, education, healthcare, and technology sectors. You’re not just following guidelines—you’re opening doors for millions of people who deserve equal access to information. This specialized skill set commands competitive rates while creating meaningful impact, making it one of the most rewarding niches in freelance writing today.
What Accessibility Writing Actually Means for Freelancers
The Different Types of Accessibility Content You Can Create
Accessibility writing opens doors to diverse content opportunities across industries. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your freelance portfolio, there’s a format that matches your strengths.
**Plain language guides** transform complex information into easy-to-understand content. You might simplify government documents, rewrite technical manuals, or create user-friendly instructions for products and services. This work requires clear thinking and the ability to break down complicated concepts.
**Alt text writing** describes images for screen reader users. From social media posts to website graphics, every image needs a concise, meaningful description. This specialized skill is increasingly in demand as organizations prioritize digital inclusion.
**Accessible social media content** goes beyond alt text. You’ll craft posts with proper capitalization in hashtags (like #AccessibilityMatters instead of #accessibilitymatters), add emoji descriptions, and ensure your messaging works for everyone. Social media managers increasingly seek writers who understand these nuances.
**Video captions and transcripts** are essential for multimedia content creation. You’ll transcribe spoken words accurately, add sound descriptions, and format content for readability. With video dominating online spaces, this skill set offers steady work opportunities.
**Inclusive marketing copy** reaches broader audiences by avoiding ableist language and stereotypes. Companies need writers who can create compelling campaigns that celebrate diversity authentically.
Each content type builds on core accessibility principles while offering unique creative challenges. Start with formats that align with your current skills, then branch out as you gain confidence. Many successful accessibility writers combine multiple specialties, creating diverse income streams while making digital spaces more welcoming for everyone.
Why Companies Are Scrambling to Hire Accessibility Writers
The demand for accessibility writers is surging across Canada, and there are compelling reasons why organizations are actively seeking these specialized skills right now.
First, there’s the legal landscape. Ontario’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) requires businesses to make their communications accessible, and similar legislation exists across other provinces. Companies face real consequences for non-compliance, making accessibility writers essential team members rather than nice-to-have additions.
Beyond avoiding penalties, there’s a significant market opportunity. Approximately 22% of Canadians live with disabilities—that’s nearly 6.2 million people. When your content isn’t accessible, you’re potentially excluding almost a quarter of your audience. Smart businesses recognize that accessibility writing isn’t just about compliance; it’s about reaching more customers and building genuine connections.
Brand reputation matters more than ever in today’s transparent digital world. Companies understand that their commitment to inclusion speaks volumes about their values. Accessible content demonstrates respect for all users and strengthens public perception, which directly impacts consumer loyalty and trust.
Perhaps most encouraging is that many organizations are moving beyond checkbox compliance toward authentic inclusion. They’re recognizing that accessibility benefits everyone—clearer language, better organization, and thoughtful design create superior experiences for all readers.
This shift creates a golden opportunity for writers willing to develop accessibility skills. You’re not just finding work; you’re becoming part of a meaningful movement that makes information available to everyone, regardless of ability.
Core Principles That Make Your Writing Truly Accessible
Writing in Plain Language Without Dumbing Down
Plain language isn’t about oversimplifying ideas—it’s about making your writing accessible to the widest possible audience. When you write clearly, you’re not “dumbing down” content; you’re respecting your readers’ time and cognitive energy.
Start with short sentences. Aim for 15-20 words per sentence on average. Break complex ideas into digestible chunks. Compare these two versions:
**Complex**: “The implementation of user-centric methodologies necessitates a comprehensive understanding of diverse accessibility requirements.”
**Plain**: “To design for all users, you need to understand different accessibility needs.”
Choose active voice whenever possible. “The team created the guidelines” beats “The guidelines were created by the team.” Active voice creates momentum and clarity.
When technical terms are necessary, define them on first use. Don’t assume everyone knows what “screen reader” or “alt text” means—explain these concepts briefly.
Replace jargon with everyday words. Say “use” instead of “utilize,” “help” instead of “facilitate,” and “show” instead of “demonstrate.”
Here’s the beautiful part: plain language benefits everyone. Non-native English speakers understand your content more easily. Readers skimming on mobile devices grasp key points faster. People with cognitive disabilities, learning differences, or brain fog can engage with your work. Even subject-matter experts appreciate clarity—they’re often reading quickly between meetings.
Think of plain language as a bridge connecting your expertise with your audience’s needs. You’re not sacrificing sophistication; you’re choosing precision over pretension.
Structuring Content for Screen Readers and Scanners
Think of screen readers as virtual tour guides that help people navigate your content. When you structure your writing thoughtfully, you’re essentially creating clear signposts that make everyone’s journey smoother—including people using assistive technology.
Start with proper heading hierarchies. Use H1 for your main title, H2 for major sections, and H3 for subsections. Never skip levels—jumping from H1 to H3 confuses screen readers and their users. Think of it like organizing chapters in a book; everything follows a logical order.
Your link text deserves special attention. Instead of “click here” or “read more,” use descriptive phrases like “download the accessibility checklist” or “explore remote writing opportunities.” Screen reader users often tab through links to scan content quickly, so each link should make sense on its own.
Bullet points and numbered lists are your friends. They break up dense paragraphs and help readers—both sighted and using assistive tech—digest information in manageable chunks. White space isn’t wasted space; it gives eyes and minds room to breathe.
Keep your flow logical. Each paragraph should connect naturally to the next, creating a clear path through your ideas. When you write with structure in mind, you’re not just making content accessible—you’re making it better for everyone. Many freelancers discover that accessible writing actually improves their overall craft, leading to more satisfied clients and better-paying opportunities.
Creating Descriptions That Paint Pictures
Great accessibility writing transforms visual and audio content into vivid experiences for everyone. When you craft alt text for images, think beyond simple labels. Instead of writing “woman at computer,” try “smiling freelance writer typing at a sunlit desk with a coffee mug nearby.” This paints a complete picture that captures mood and context.
Video transcripts offer another fantastic opportunity. Include not just dialogue, but meaningful sounds and visual cues: “[upbeat music plays]” or “[speaker gestures enthusiastically].” These details create an immersive experience for people using screen readers or those who prefer reading.
**Before:** “Image of chart”
**After:** “Bar chart showing freelance writing income increasing 40% from January to June, with the steepest growth in April”
Audio descriptions for video content work similarly. You’re essentially becoming the eyes for your audience, describing key visual elements during natural pauses in dialogue.
Here’s the exciting part: many organizations desperately need writers who can create these descriptions well. Content creators, educational platforms, and media companies are actively seeking freelancers with this skill. Start practicing with your own blog images or volunteer to write descriptions for non-profits. You’ll quickly build a portfolio that showcases your ability to make content truly accessible.
Building Your Accessibility Writing Skills From Scratch
Free Resources Every Canadian Writer Should Bookmark
Building your accessibility writing skills doesn’t have to break the bank. Canada offers excellent free resources that can transform your understanding and expertise in this growing field.
Start with the **Government of Canada’s Digital Standards**, which outlines accessibility requirements for federal digital content. These guidelines offer real-world examples of how Canadian organizations implement inclusive practices. The Accessible Canada Act resources provide clarity on legal requirements you’ll encounter when working with clients.
The **Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)** website features comprehensive guides, even if you’re outside Ontario. Many Canadian businesses follow these standards nationwide, making them invaluable for freelancers anywhere in the country.
Don’t miss the **CNIB’s Clear Print Guidelines**—a goldmine for writers creating print materials. These practical tips help you format documents that work for readers with low vision, and clients genuinely appreciate this knowledge.
For web content, explore free **WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) tutorials** through W3C’s WAI resources. Yes, they’re technical, but start with the “Easy Checks” section for quick wins.
Join online communities like the **Canadian Accessibility Network** and LinkedIn groups focused on accessibility in Canada. These spaces connect you with other professionals, share job opportunities, and provide support as you build your expertise. Fellow writers often share client leads and answer questions—you’re not learning this alone.
Bookmark these resources today and revisit them regularly. Your future clients will notice the difference in your work, and you’ll feel confident tackling accessibility projects that truly matter.
How to Practice When You Don’t Have Clients Yet
You don’t need paying clients to start building your accessibility writing expertise. In fact, practicing on your own helps you develop skills and create portfolio samples that’ll impress future clients.
Start by conducting accessibility audits of existing websites. Choose content from popular brands or local Canadian businesses and document where they fall short—missing alt text, complex jargon, poor heading structure, or confusing navigation descriptions. Then rewrite those sections to be more accessible. This exercise sharpens your eye for spotting issues while demonstrating your problem-solving abilities.
Volunteering is another powerful way to gain experience. Reach out to nonprofits serving people with disabilities, community organizations, or accessibility advocacy groups. Many operate on tight budgets and would welcome help reviewing their websites, newsletters, or social media content. You’ll build meaningful work samples while making a genuine difference.
Download a free screen reader like NVDA (for Windows) or use VoiceOver (built into Macs and iPhones) to experience content as blind and low-vision users do. Navigate through websites with your eyes closed, listening to how the screen reader interprets the content. This firsthand experience is invaluable—you’ll quickly understand why clear headings, descriptive links, and simple language matter so much.
Create before-and-after samples showcasing your rewrites. These tangible examples prove your skills to potential clients better than any description could.
Finding Clients Who Value Accessibility Writing
Industries Actively Seeking Accessibility Writers
The demand for accessibility writers is growing across multiple sectors, creating exciting opportunities for Canadian freelancers ready to make a difference.
**Government agencies** lead the pack, as they’re legally required to make all public-facing content accessible under various accessibility laws. Federal, provincial, and municipal departments need writers who understand WCAG standards and can create documents, websites, and communications that serve all citizens equally.
**Educational institutions** are investing heavily in accessible content as they embrace inclusive learning. Universities and colleges need accessibility writers to develop course materials, online learning platforms, and student resources that work for learners with diverse abilities.
**Tech companies** recognize that accessibility isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business. They’re hiring writers to create user guides, help documentation, and product descriptions that reach wider audiences. Many startups are building accessibility into their products from day one and need skilled communicators.
**Healthcare organizations** must ensure patients can understand critical health information regardless of their abilities. From hospital websites to patient education materials, this sector offers steady work for accessibility-focused writers.
**Financial services** companies face strict regulations around clear communication and need writers who can make complex financial concepts accessible to everyone, including people with cognitive disabilities.
**Nonprofits** serving disability communities are natural clients, though budgets may be smaller. They value writers who genuinely understand their mission and can amplify their message inclusively.
Marketing Yourself as an Accessibility Specialist
Once you’ve developed your accessibility writing skills, it’s time to let potential clients know! Start by updating your portfolio with samples that demonstrate inclusive language, plain language techniques, and your understanding of disability inclusion. If you don’t have published examples yet, create spec pieces or offer to review existing content for accessibility issues.
Revamp your LinkedIn profile and freelance platform bios to highlight relevant keywords like “accessible content,” “plain language writer,” “WCAG compliance,” and “inclusive communications.” Many organizations actively searching for inclusion writers use these terms.
Consider adding a dedicated section to your website explaining your accessibility expertise. Share what you’ve learned about disability inclusion, any relevant courses you’ve completed, or certifications you’ve earned. This positions you as knowledgeable and committed to the field.
Don’t forget to network! Join accessibility-focused groups on social media and engage in conversations about inclusive content. Many Canadian organizations value writers who genuinely understand and care about making information available to everyone. Your authentic interest in accessibility will shine through and attract the right opportunities.
Real Success Stories From Canadian Writers
Sarah Chen from Vancouver had been writing marketing content for five years when she discovered accessibility writing in 2021. “I took an online course on WCAG standards and started reaching out to tech companies,” she shares. Within six months, Sarah landed three retainer clients who needed ongoing accessibility audits and content remediation. Her income increased by 40%, but more importantly, she found deep satisfaction in her work. “Knowing that my writing helps people with disabilities access information that was previously unavailable to them—that’s incredibly fulfilling,” she says. Today, accessibility writing makes up 60% of her business, with clients eagerly referring her to other organizations.
Meanwhile, Toronto-based writer Marcus Williams took a different approach. After his sister, who uses a screen reader, struggled with a government website, Marcus decided to specialize in plain language and accessible document design for public sector clients. He started small, offering free accessibility reviews to local nonprofits to build his portfolio. Within a year, he secured contracts with two municipal governments and a federal agency. “The demand far exceeds the supply of qualified writers,” Marcus explains. His rates are now 25% higher than his previous general copywriting work, and he has a waitlist of clients. Best of all? “I go to bed knowing I made someone’s day easier. That’s worth everything.”
Both writers emphasize that accessibility work offers steady income and meaningful impact—a rare combination in freelancing.
Common Mistakes That Make Content Less Accessible
Even well-intentioned writers stumble into accessibility traps. Recognizing these common mistakes helps you avoid them and create truly inclusive content.
**Vague language** confuses readers who process information literally. Instead of “click here” or “learn more,” write descriptive links like “download the accessibility checklist” or “read our guide to inclusive language.” This clarity helps everyone, especially screen reader users who navigate by jumping between links.
**Information overload** overwhelms readers quickly. Long paragraphs packed with multiple ideas create cognitive barriers. Break content into digestible chunks—aim for 3-4 sentences per paragraph. Use bullet points for lists and give readers breathing room with white space.
**Relying solely on visual formatting** excludes people using assistive technology. Don’t use color alone to convey meaning (like red text for errors). Don’t write “see the graph below” without describing what the graph shows. Always pair visual cues with text alternatives.
**Generic alt text** wastes an opportunity to inform. “Image123.jpg” or “photo” tells readers nothing. Instead, describe the image’s purpose: “Bar graph showing 65% of Canadians prefer accessible websites.” For decorative images, use empty alt text (alt=””) so screen readers skip them.
**Forgetting cognitive disabilities** limits your audience reach. Complex sentences, jargon, and assumed knowledge create barriers. Neurodiverse-affirming writing means using plain language, defining technical terms, and structuring content logically with clear headings.
The good news? Fixing these mistakes improves readability for everyone. Your colleagues scanning emails during lunch breaks appreciate concise paragraphs. International readers benefit from simple vocabulary. Busy clients love descriptive headings that help them find information fast. When you write accessibly, you’re not just accommodating disabilities—you’re becoming a better communicator overall.
Accessibility writing isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart career move that opens doors to meaningful work and dedicated clients who value inclusion. As you’ve seen throughout this article, making your content accessible doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your writing process. Start small today. Choose just one or two techniques we’ve covered—maybe it’s adding alt text descriptions to your images or breaking up long paragraphs—and practice them in your next project.
The beauty of accessibility writing is that your skills compound over time. Each accessible piece you create builds your expertise and portfolio, making you more attractive to organizations prioritizing disability inclusion. Better yet, you’re expanding opportunities for clients who genuinely appreciate writers who understand their needs.
Remember, behind every screen reader and assistive device is a real person who deserves to access information as easily as anyone else. When you write with accessibility in mind, you’re not just following best practices—you’re changing someone’s day, helping them learn something new, or enabling them to make an informed decision. That’s the kind of impact that makes freelance writing truly rewarding. Your words have power. Make sure everyone can experience them.