Accessibility
Special Links is a list of native links. Accessibility therefore depends on correct link semantics, descriptive names, visible focus, and explicit context change cues for new-tab destinations.
For designers
Section titled “For designers”- Keep link text and focus states clearly visible against the footer surface. Source: WCAG 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum).
- Distinguish links by more than colour alone (underline and/or icon cues). Source: WCAG 1.4.1 Use of Color.
- Ensure focus indication is clearly visible and distinct from hover. Source: WCAG 2.4.7 Focus Visible.
- The recommended limit is 33 characters (total per row) for accessibility reasons, ensuring that links remain on a single line and maintain readability. If one link exceeds 33 characters, the remaining links should use fewer characters so that the total length still fits within one line. From an accessibility and usability perspective, if all links exceed the recommended limits and cause wrapping or layout issues, this scenario is not supported.
For developers
Section titled “For developers”Build items as native <a href> links. Use links only for navigation destinations (internal or external), not for in-page actions. When a link opens in a new tab/window, communicate this in the accessible name and pair target="_blank" with rel="noopener".
Focus order
Section titled “Focus order”Tab order follows document order through each link in the group.
- First link
- Second link
Labelling elements
Section titled “Labelling elements”Link
Use native <a href>. The visible link text is the accessible name unless replaced/extended by aria-label. Names must describe destination and stand on their own in a links list.
Source: WCAG 4.1.2 Name, Role, Value.