2.1 Some links open in a new tab without informing users in advance (Observation)
2.1.1 Some links open in a new tab without informing users in advance
Throughout the site, there are some links (such as the feedback link in the header and the Legal Aid Checker on the Start page), that open in a new tab without warning users visually or programmatically.
This could be problematic for screen reader users who might not realise that a new tab has been opened. They would expect to navigate to the previous page using the back button in the browser or shortcut commands; this is not possible when the page opens in a new tab. This could confuse users and may lead them to get frustrated and abandon the process.
It can also be disorienting for some users with cognitive disabilities, who would expect the page to behave in a certain way. When pages behave unpredictably, it poses problems for these users.
FIGURE 2.1: Links that open in a new tab on the Start page
2.1.2 Recommendation
If opening a page in a new tab/window is required, all users should be informed in advance. This could be achieved by including the warning as part of the link text:
<a>feedback (Opens in a new tab) </a>Note that this is how other links are presented on the site, such as the links within the Related Content section.
2.1.4 Spot check: April 2024
This issue is unresolved. Some links still do not warn users in advance that they open in a new tab. Please refer to the above recommendation.