Deaf News: Nationwide offers customers BSL access to their services for first time

A new service has been launched via SignVideo Live (who are also a supporter of this site) will allow British Sign Language (BSL) users to take full advantage of the services that Nationwide has to offer.

The free service can be accessed via a link on Nationwide’s website which will enable customers who are deaf and hard of hearing to access a BSL interpreter through video. From here, the interpreter will connect the customer to the customer services helpline, relaying the call live like any regular call.

Currently there are 11 million people confronting deafness and hearing loss in the UK, with approximately 150,000 BSL users. This emphasises the need for a customer experience where those who use BSL can confidently and independently manage their finances.

Video relay service is becoming increasingly popular in the customer services industry and complements Nationwide’s goal to provide an all-inclusive service for its customers. Available on computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones, the service is easily accessible in whichever way the customer chooses to use it.

Mandy Griffin, Nationwide’s Head of Customer Experience, said:

“We are very proud to be partnering with SignVideo to provide our deaf and hard of hearing customers with the services they need to help them manage their finances. The service is another great asset, alongside our wider Specialist Support Programme1, which enables our members to receive extra support when it matters most.”

Jeff McWhinney, Chairman and Founder of SignVideo, said:

“We are encouraged to see more financial institutions like Nationwide considering how they can serve their deaf BSL customers. SignVideo are thrilled to launch this service with Nationwide, which allows equal and immediate access to their helplines for the BSL community. We are proud of Nationwide for being one of the UK’s leading building societies in setting the benchmark for accessible customer services in the finance industry. The UK BSL community will be delighted that this service is now available.”.