No Bank Holiday on Accessibility: Blind and Partially Sighted People Still Locked Out of Financial Services

Date posted: 22nd August 2025

Despite the digital revolution in banking, blind and partially sighted (BPS) people are being left behind. Many online banking services and apps remain inaccessible, denying thousands the ability to manage their money independently and securely. 

This is not just inconvenient—it’s unjust. 

Over 70% of UK adults bank online or via apps. Yet RNIB research shows more than half of BPS people are dissatisfied with their provider, and 22% cannot bank without help. That’s not equality—it’s exclusion. 

Andrew Law, who is a blind charity professional said: “It is remarkable that I cannot have full independence in managing my own personal finance due to modern day barriers brought in by banks and other institutions. Solutions are readily available but require the major banks to change their culture of inaccessible design.” 

The barriers are growing: 

  • Digital services are increasingly inaccessible. Registration often demands sight, and security features are used as excuses to sidestep inclusive design. 
  • Bank branches are vanishing. Replaced by shared hubs, they offer limited face-to-face support—vital for BPS people navigating complex onboarding processes. 

This flies in the face of the Equality Act 2010. 

We demand action 

  • Inclusive design from the start—apps and websites must allow BPS people to register and bank independently. 
  • Retain accessible services like user-friendly phonelines. 
  • Enforce higher standards, backed by the Financial Conduct Authority. 

Change is possible 

Fintech firm HyperJar is already working with Thomas Pocklington Trust to improve accessibility. Others must follow. 

Mike Bell, Head of Public Affairs at Thomas Pocklington Trust, says:
“It’s not an equal society if BPS people still rely on others to access their finances. Regulators must act now.” 

Help us push for change. Write to your MP today.

Demand equal access to financial services for blind and partially sighted people. Banking must work for everyone. 

Read more here.

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