Nationwide has rolled out a new service across more than 500 of its branches. The banking provider has unveiled access guides for all its branches, offering customers clear information regarding disabled access.
The announcement was made on Facebook by Nationwide, stating that one in four people in the UK have an access need. Nationwide has collaborated with AccessAble to introduce detailed visual access guides for all 605 branches, ensuring clear information on disabled access prior to visiting.
In a video shared alongside the announcement, Kathryn Townsend, the Head of Customer Accessibility at Nationwide, explained the partnership with AccessAble to develop the guides. These guides, accessible via Nationwide’s branch finder, include information on step-free access, hearing loops, lowered counters, and British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters.
Nationwide disclosed that more than 500 branch guides are already available, with all 605 branches expected to be published by the end of May. Additionally, Nationwide has committed to keeping all 605 branches operational until at least 2030.
In the Facebook video, Tanvi, a Customer and AccessAble Ambassador, expressed appreciation for Nationwide’s collaboration with AccessAble, emphasizing the value of the provided information for individuals with access needs.
Michael, a Nationwide customer, commended the decision to maintain branches open until 2030, highlighting the importance of in-person banking for individuals with disabilities.
Dr. Gregory Burke, Founder and Executive Chair of AccessAble, emphasized the significance of clear accessibility information as a fundamental consumer right, enabling disabled individuals to plan and promoting dignity and independence. He praised Nationwide’s commitment to publishing Detailed Access Guides for every branch and urged other businesses to follow suit in ensuring accurate, consistent, and reliable accessibility information.