And finally…Barclays super sizes card readers for older and disabled customers

The bank said that with over five million people experiencing some form of sight loss or dexterity issues, the developments will help customers access services more easily and further protect them from fraud.

A card reader, or ‘PINsentry’, is a small handheld device that provides an extra level of protection for customers logging into online banking from home or verifying themselves within a bank branch.

Following feedback that some customers, particularly older ones, found the card reader difficult to see and use because of its size, Barclays has developed a fully accessible talking card reader with bigger buttons and screen to meet a broader range of access needs. This was tested in conjunction with customers and AbilityNet to ensure it was easy to use.

Barclays said it has also made an enhancement to its existing popular range of high-visibility debit cards. In addition to the high contrast and brightly coloured designs and tactile notch for easy orientation, the three-digit security number on the reverse of the card has been made bigger after customers told Barclays they were struggling to see it.

Ashok Vaswani, chief executive of Barclays UK, said: “We are always looking for new ways to support our customers and make their finances even more secure.

“Often it’s when you think about how to meet specific needs that you find solutions that help the widest range of people and customers, which is why we thread this thinking through every business decision we make. This new development is yet another example of how we are responding to the needs of our customers.”

Nigel Lewis, chief executive of AbilityNet said: “As a leading advocate of accessible digital design, we know that putting the user at the centre of the design process delivers better products and services to every customer, not just people with disabilities. Barclays commitment to accessibility, shown most recently by the launch of the large card reader and improved high-visibility debit card, will have a positive impact on the lives of the millions of people who use their services every day.”