Concerns about the accessibility of touch screen card machines for blind and visually impaired individuals were raised in the House of Lords, highlighting the importance of compliance with the Equality Act.
In a recent debate within the House of Lords, concerns were raised regarding the accessibility of touch screen card machines for blind and visually impaired individuals. Former Labour Home Secretary, Lord Blunkett, who has been blind since birth, addressed the challenges faced by visually impaired people when using these devices. He was joined by the Conservative peer Lord Holmes of Richmond in calling for improvements to ensure these machines comply with the Equality Act by being accessible to all users. Treasury Minister Baroness Vere responded, indicating that the financial services industry, in collaboration with charities such as the Royal National Institute for the Blind, is actively working to enhance the accessibility of card machines. She referred to the publication of accessibility guidance and the role of the Financial Conduct Authority in ensuring that organizations prioritize support for vulnerable customers.
The debate was marked by a lighter moment provided by former police chief Lord Mackenzie of Framwellgate, who humorously recounted not reporting his wife’s stolen credit card because the thief was spending less than her. Despite the amusement this brought to the House, Baroness Vere of Norbiton stressed the importance of reporting theft and following proper procedures.
The discussions in the House of Lords underscored the broader issue of inclusivity in digital financial services, highlighting ongoing efforts to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities and ensure that financial services are accessible to everyone.
