Appearance
The look and feel of this web site is largely determined by using templates and CSS (Cascading Style Sheets). The style sheets contain instructions about displaying the various elements on the page such as font size and colour for text and headings. The use of templates ensures that text can only be entered into pre-determined areas of the page. This means that the pages have a unified appearance and font styles and sizes are consistent throughout the site. Thus the main guidance we offer to Information Providers concerns written style.
Written Style
There are several fields on the record input form that are free text for you to enter your own description - this is your chance to tell the world what you do! However, please keep language neutral and factual. Statements such as "the best in Aberdeenshire" will be removed, although "meets all government standards" would be quite acceptable. We retain the right to edit your records for clarity, accuracy and meeting our style guidleines as laid out on this page. These will be regularly revised.
- Use Plain English to communicate information clearly
- Aim to use sentences that are no longer than 20 words
- Use one paragraph per subject
- Use bullet points for lists
- Use the terms - People with Disabilities, Visually Impaired, Hearing Impaired, Learning Disabilities
- Do not use the word disabled to describe an object, for example, "disabled toilets " - instead say "toilet facilities for people with disabilities"
- Do not use subjective terminology, for example, this is a wonderful service
- Wherever possible avoid using a personal tone as in "you can"
Our Style Glossary gives more detailed guidance on language, grammar and spelling and will also be regularly reviewed, revised and added to. It is a tool used by the Grampian CareData team when editing records and has been published to assist you if you wish to use it.