Bank of Ireland UK is launching a new service to improve access to financial services for deaf and hearing impaired customers, partnering with specialist service provider SignVideo, a Sorenson company in the UK.
For the first time, the service, which can be accessed through both the Bank of Ireland UK and SignVideo by Sorenson websites, will enable customers who use sign language to talk to a Bank of Ireland UK colleague about their banking needs using their computer, tablet or smartphone. Through the web link, customers using the service will be connected to a qualified SignVideo by Sorenson interpreter who will relay the conversation in real time to a Bank of Ireland UK contact centre colleague.
Launching the new service, Gail Goldie, Chief Executive, Bank of Ireland UK said: “Delivering accessible and inclusive services that meet the needs of all customers is important to us and we are delighted to partner with SignVideo to ensure deaf and hearing impaired consumers feel valued and included when banking with us.
“Finance impacts so many aspects of life and we continue to challenge ourselves to ensure as many customers as possible have access to banking solutions that enable them to maintain their financial independence.”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Bank of Ireland UK as we continue advancing crucial communication services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people globally,” said Jorge Rodriguez, CEO of Sorenson, the company that revolutionised communication between deaf and hearing people 20 years ago with the introduction of the first videophone designed specifically for sign language communication. “This announcement represents a significant step in our journey to deliver inclusive communication service. We encourage all industries to join us in providing accessible, inclusive services that directly impact people’s lives and change the way business is conducted.”
Across the UK it is estimated that 151,000 people use British Sign Language, with some 25,000 estimated as using sign as their primary language. Recognising the importance of communicating with its customers in their primary language, the partnership with partnership with SignVideo by Sorenson provides increased banking choices for Bank of Ireland’s deaf and hard-of-hearing customers.
Bank of Ireland and SignVideo by Sorenson interpreter services are available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Irish Sign Language users can also use the service, an ISL interpreter can be made available upon request.
Full details on the service, including information on how to use for customers is available at: https://www.bankofirelanduk.com/help-and-support/help-and-guidance/accessibility-supports/
The launch of the new SignVideo service builds on the Bank’s existing range of accessibility supports including in-branch video interpreter services, Relay UK partnership and hearing loops in all branches.
Bank of Ireland UK is also a member of Signing Banks – www.signingbanks.uk – working in partnership across the financial services industry to improve access for deaf consumers.