Irish financial institution Bank of Ireland has introduced series of new accessibility measures across its branch network, including neuro-inclusive branch accreditation and communication cards designed to make everyday banking easier for customers with additional support needs.

The lender said 37 branches have now achieved neuro-inclusive accreditation, with further seven due to complete the programme by end of year, enhancing customer experience through calmer, more accessible branch environments according to Business Plus.

The initiative will continue into 2027 as the bank upgrades more locations. In a separate move, all 168 Bank of Ireland branches across the Republic will now offer new Speak Easy communication cards, making it the first bank in Ireland to introduce the initiative nationwide.

The cards feature simple images, colours, and phrases to help customers communicate common banking requests, including checking account balance, reporting lost debit card, or seeking assistance with online banking. This visual communication tool aims to reduce anxiety and confusion during face-to-face banking interactions for customers who may struggle with verbal communication.

The neuro-inclusive accreditation has been awarded by auticon, an autistic-majority IT consultancy and social enterprise. The assessment examined branch consistency, accessibility, capability, and staff confidence, with employees also receiving specialist neuro-inclusion training to better support neurodivergent customers throughout their banking interactions.

Jane Kealy, Director of Group Customer Outcomes at Bank of Ireland, stated, "The launch of Speak Easy Cards, alongside our neuroinclusive branch spaces, is another important step in our ambition to be a truly inclusive and accessible bank. We want every customer to feel supported in managing their financial needs, and initiatives like these can help build confidence and make banking easier for everyone."

Alan Durcan, Distribution Director at Bank of Ireland, noted, "It is an important step in making branch banking easier to navigate and more welcoming for customers. From how a branch environment feels, to how customers communicate with us, thoughtful design and simple tools can make a real difference."

The latest accessibility measures build on range of existing supports already available to Bank of Ireland customers, including ATMs with high-contrast screens and audio guidance, SignVideo services for customers who use sign language, access to Irish Text Relay Service, participation in JAM Card and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower schemes, and banking information available in Braille, large print, and audio formats.