Nationwide launches 'Easy Read' guides to improve banking accessibility

With an estimated 1.5 million people in the UK living with a learning disability, the initiative seeks to remove barriers to financial independence. Customers can access Easy Read materials as printable PDFs on Nationwide’s website or request printed copies at any of the society’s 605 branches.

Expanding accessibility efforts

The launch of Easy Read follows the introduction of Speak Easy, a set of communication cards designed to assist customers with communication challenges. These cards, developed in collaboration with organizations like the Stroke Association and the British Institute of Learning Disabilities (BILD), help users manage banking tasks such as reporting fraud or lost cards. The initiative has been recognized for its impact, earning a nomination in the ‘Accessible Product’ category at the 2025 Scope Awards.

Nationwide has also taken steps to support Deaf customers by partnering with Signly, a British Sign Language (BSL) technology company, to provide BSL translations on its website.

Commitment to inclusive banking

Kathryn Townsend, Head of Customer Vulnerability at Nationwide, emphasized the importance of ongoing accessibility improvements. “We are delighted to be working with Mencap on this important initiative that will really support those with learning disabilities with their day-to-day banking needs,” she said.

Harry Roche, Mencap’s Accessibility Officer, highlighted the significance of the project: “Making reasonable adjustments is a small change that can make a huge difference.”

With these efforts, Nationwide continues to lead the way in ensuring banking is inclusive, fair, and accessible to all.