How to access bank accessibility services as a d/Deaf customer

As a d/Deaf person, interacting with bank employees may sometimes be challenging. However, there are several tips you can use to communicate effectively with bank employees and access the financial services you need.

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Before you go:

1. Be Prepared Before visiting the bank, be prepared by bringing any necessary documents or information with you. This will help to expedite the process and ensure that you have all the information you need to make informed financial decisions.
2. ‍Research the banks accessibility features Before visiting the bank, research the bank's accessibility features to ensure that they can accommodate your communication needs. This may include offering Sign Language interpreters, closed-captioning, or other accessibility features.
3. ‍Choosing the right time: Consider choosing a time to visit the bank when it's less busy. This will allow you to communicate with bank employees more easily and ensure that you have enough time to get your questions answered.
4. ‍Consider bringing a friend or family member: If you're unsure about how to communicate with bank employees or need additional support, consider bringing a friend or family member with you. They can help you to communicate your needs and ensure that you understand the information being presented to you.
5. ‍Request an interpreter: If you use Sign Language as your primary means of communication, you can request a Sign Language interpreter to assist you. Many banks provide Sign Language interpreters free of charge for d/Deaf customers. Make sure to inform the bank in advance if you need an interpreter so that they can arrange for one to be present during your visit.
6. ‍Use a notepad or phone app: If you prefer to communicate in writing, bring a notepad or phone app to write down your questions or comments. This will allow you to communicate more effectively with bank employees and ensure that you don't forget any important information. If you write things in advance it might help you remember what are the most important things you need.
7. ‍Familiarise yourself with banking terminology: It's important to familiarize yourself with banking terminology, as it can be complex and confusing. This will help you to understand financial concepts and procedures and communicate more effectively with bank employees.

At the bank:

1. Inform the bank of your communication needs: When you first enter the bank, inform the bank employees of your communication needs. Let them know if you use Sign Language or if you need written communication. This will help the bank employees to accommodate your needs and provide you with the appropriate services.
2. ‍Be Assertive: It's important to be assertive when communicating with bank employees. Let them know if you don't understand something or if you need more information. Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for clarification if you are unsure about something. The bank employees are there to assist you, and it's their job to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the financial services being offered. There is a difference between being assertive and angry. You might feel very frustrated but try and stay calm.
3. ‍Use written communication: If you prefer written communication, you can communicate with bank employees using a pen and paper or a mobile device, such as a phone app . You can also request that the bank provide written materials, such as brochures or instructions, to help you understand financial concepts and procedures.
4. ‍Use visual aids: If you are a visual learner, you can ask bank employees to provide you with visual aids, such as diagrams or charts, to help you understand financial concepts. You can also request that bank employees use visual alerts, such as flashing lights or visual displays, to notify you of important information.
5. ‍Use video relay services: If you prefer to communicate using sign language, you can use video relay services (VRS) to communicate with bank employees over video chat. VRS allows you to communicate with a sign language interpreter who will interpret your conversation to the bank employee over the phone or computer. You can download VRS apps on your mobile device or computer, or you can use a VRS phone.
6. ‍Familiarise yourself with banking terminology: It's important to familiarize yourself with banking terminology, as it can be complex and confusing. This will help you to understand financial concepts and procedures and communicate more effectively with bank employees.

Follow Up:

1. Use text messaging: Many banks now offer text messaging as a way to communicate with customers. This can be a convenient way to get quick answers to your questions or receive notifications about your account.
2. ‍Follow up: After your visit to the bank, follow up with bank employees to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the information presented to you. This will help to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings and ensure that you are able to make informed financial decisions.
3. ‍Consider using online or mobile banking: Online and mobile banking can be a convenient way to access financial services without the need for in-person communication. Many banks offer online and mobile banking services that are accessible to d/Deaf customers. You can manage your finances from the comfort of your own home, without the need for an interpreter or written communication

In conclusion, there are several tips that d/Deaf customers can use when interacting with bank employees to ensure effective communication and access to financial services. By choosing the right time, being prepared, familiarizing yourself with banking terminology, using text messaging, researching accessibility features, considering bringing a friend or family member, and following up, you can ensure that you have a positive and successful experience at the bank.

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