As part of its commitment to make it easier for all customers to bank with them, particularly through the use of technology, HSBC have equipped all of their ATMs in Malta and Gozo with voice-enabled technology, making it easier for people with visual impairment to use these machines.

All ATMs have audio jacks that customers can plug their standard headsets into to hear spoken instructions in both Maltese and English. For further security, the ATM screen is blanked out during the transaction ensuring privacy. This functionality makes it easier for visually impaired customers to access services such as withdrawing and depositing cash. In addition to Talking ATMs, all HSBC ATMS offer the choice of viewing the screens in larger fonts, a service which is very useful for elderly people or people with low vision.
The roll out of this technology to the whole HSBC network makes good on a commitment  made in 2016 when the Bank organised a number of practical, hands-on sessions to show customers how to use this functionality. These sessions were organised with the cooperation of the Malta Society of the Blind, Gozo Aid for the Visually-Impaired, Torball Society of the Blind, and Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability.
Dan Robinson, Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, said: “This is a great initiative that I and the bank are very proud of. We are committed to making it easier for our customers to get their banking done simply and conveniently and we get great feedback on our Talking ATM functionality. So it’s brilliant that we can deliver on the requests we have had to increase the availability of this technology.”
Oliver Scicluna, Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disability, said: “I believe that HSBC Bank Malta have done an excellent job in making sure that full access is given to all their ATM users including persons with visual impairment and the blind. This proves well that the Bank opted to address a social concern apart from their legal obligation.”
Additional information about this service is available via www.hsbc.com.mt/atm  or by calling HSBC Contact Centre on 23802380.