UNION BANK OF INDIA'S 'UNION ACCESS' INITIATIVE REDEFINES INCLUSIVE BANKING

NO INDIAN LEFT BEHIND

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In an era where digital and financial inclusion is paramount, the Union Bank of India (UBI) has positioned itself as a leader in creating a truly barrier-free banking ecosystem. This commitment is best encapsulated in its ambitious digital accessibility initiative, 'Union Access,' launched on 19 May 2022, to coincide with the 11th Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD).

Designed to empower persons with disabilities (PWD) and senior citizens, 'Union Access' is not just a digital accessibility programme but a comprehensive, multifaceted strategy that has redefined accessibility standards in the Indian financial sector and an enabler of equal financial access to persons with disabilities.

The 'Union Access' programme was conceived with a clear mission: to ensure that every customer, regardless of their physical ability, can manage their finances with ease, dignity and independence. Recognising the diverse needs of its vast customer base, UBI aligned its initiatives with global standards, aiming to meet the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) notified “Indian Standards on ICT Accessibility” and the global Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

The initial launch in 2022 was marked by several foundational steps, which included:

Unveiling a booklet on “Inclusive Social Media” to integrate accessibility best practices into the bank’s public communications.

Launching an intensive E-Learning course on “General Awareness on Disability, Inclusion and Accessibility” for all staff members to cultivate an accessibility-first culture internally.

Conducting mass awareness through a social media on accessibility.

These steps cemented the bank's commitment to building a culture of inclusion from the ground up, recognising that technology alone is insufficient without dedicated, trained personnel.