Financial institutions have a reputation for not being the most accessible, with many requiring assistances to access services. A number of UK banks have been on a journey to improve accessibility, especially of their digital applications, this includes HSBC and Barclays. This recent article in Forbes discusses how Chase is working on accessibility.

Chase have implemented Aira, a visual interpreter service that blind and low vision users can access for free and get assistance via their mobile phone. Below is a video demonstrating how an Aira call works. The Aira agent guides the man using the camera on their smart phone, showing him how to get into the building and access the cash machine.

Chase worked with Gallaudet University in Washington DC to open a branch nearby. Gallaudet is the world’s only institution of higher learning for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Through the partnership, Chase has been able to make the branch more accessible and embed this learnings in other branches.

Ensuring accessibility, is more than just meeting legal compliance, it is an opportunity to improve services for all customers and grow your customer base.