17 May 2005
Europe's first ATMs specially catered for the blind and people with visual impairments have been introduced at various locations in Glasgow and Belfast.
The pioneering audio cash machines make use of assistive technology known as Text to Speech and could be set for wholesale UK roll out if the initial introductions prove successful.
The machines, which are being piloted by Northern Bank, are operable through a jack fitted to the front of the ATM that blind people can use to plug a set of headphones into.
The machines then use an automated voice to guide visually impaired people through the required processes such as pass number entering and various services such as checking balances or withdrawing cash.
The Royal National Institute for the Blind said it was delighted with the new machines.
David Mann, RNIB campaigns officer, said: "ATMs are really difficult to use for blind or partially sighted people because all the information is displayed visually.
"I have learned to use my own bank's machines by memorising where all the buttons are but that still doesn't help me if anything goes wrong - if there are insufficient funds in my account, or if the machine is not dispensing ten pound notes etc - and I can't use the ATMs for any other bank."
Mr Mann continued to describe the new technology as "a real breakthrough" and called for other banks to adopt the assistive technology as soon as possible.© DeHavilland Information Services plc
Keep up to date with industry and Nomensa news by signing up to Nomensa newsletters.
