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Easy Read Standards

Purpose

Easy Read standards exist to establish a consistent and measurable benchmark for Easy Read quality. Without standards, the term "Easy Read" can be applied to documents of widely varying quality, undermining its credibility and effectiveness as an accessibility tool.

Scope

Easy Read standards apply to any entity producing or commissioning Easy Read documents. In New Zealand, standards are maintained by Whaikaha — the Ministry for Disabled People. Internationally, standards are informed by Inclusion Europe's Easy-to-Read Guidelines and other national frameworks. Standards may vary across jurisdictions.

Components

  • Sentence length guidelines: typically no more than 10–15 words per sentence 

  • Vocabulary restrictions: preference for common, everyday words; technical terms must be explained

  • Image pairing: a supporting image or symbol for each key concept or page 

  • Layout requirements: left-aligned text, large font (minimum 14pt), generous line spacing 

  • Reading level targets: typically equivalent to a reading age of 9–11 years

  • Structure guidelines: numbered sections, clear headings, one idea per page or section

Outputs

A verification framework that allows producers, commissioners, and reviewers to determine whether a document genuinely meets the Easy Read threshold and is appropriate for use with the Easy Read audience.

Relationships

Authority and Intellectual Property

In New Zealand, Easy Read standards are maintained by Whaikaha — the Ministry for Disabled People. Internationally, Inclusion Europe and the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) publish relevant guidance. Standards are not proprietary to any commercial entity.

Version control

First published:

17 June 2026 at 12:44:48 pm

Last reviewed:

27 June 2026 at 9:39:17 am

Pricing

Pricing

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