Barclays has explained a policy that applies at all its branches. A customer contacted the bank as they were shocked to see a sign at their local branch.
Posting on social media, the customer shared a picture of the sign, which was on a stand-up chalk board. The message read: “It’s quiet time. 9.30am to 10.30am. A dedicated hour that is easy on the eyes and ears by reducing noise, lighting and other distractions in branch. This is to support our neurodivergent customers.”
The customer was unimpressed by the sign, telling Barclays “you’re a bank not a kindergarten”. Barclays responded to explain the reason for the policy.
The bank assured the customer they were “absolutely right” that Barclays operates as a bank rather than a preschool centre. The group also said: “All our branches have a quiet hour between 9:30am and 10:30am on the days they’re open so that our neurodiverse customers feel supported in a quiet space. We use a sign like this so that the message is as clear as possible too.”
Barclays also sent the customer a link to the group’s website with more information about how the services they provide tailored for neurodiverse people. Neurodiversity refers to people who have brain processes, ways of learning or behaviours that are different from some others.
This includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia. Some Barclays branches have private meeting rooms and accessible quiet areas, if customers need these services to bank comfortably.
You can also book an appointment online if there is a specific matter you want to talk to someone about. These appointments are usually for 30 minutes, although you have a longer meeting depending on the issue you want to discuss.
Customers can also call Barclays to make an appointment, on 0345 734 5345. Lines are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm and on Saturdays from 9am to 5pm.
What features doe the Barclays app and online banking have for neurodiverse people?
The Barclays app and online banking have also been designed to make it as accessible as possible. In the app, you can invert the screen colours on your device and it also has voiceover technology.
You can also log in using your unique fingerprint or face recognition, if your device has these functions, so you don’t have to use your passcode every time.
Customers can also talk to Barclays face to face using the video-banking service in the app, although you will have to download the separate video banking app to do this.
With online banking, you can adjust the size of text and screen contrast when you are logged in. You can also change your other settings to suit your needs.
