The National Bank of Ukraine has adopted the key proposals of the public union “League of the Strong” on the Guidelines on the rules of inclusive financial services in Ukrainian institutions. The adopted changes ensure that the recommendations are in line with the current state building codes on inclusiveness, the correct use of terminology and a comprehensive approach to the organization of accessible space. This was reported by Daria Sydorenko, executive director of the public trade union League of the Strong.
“These changes are an important step towards the creation of a truly barrier-free network of financial service providers, where every citizen of Ukraine, regardless of their health disabilities, will have equal access to financial services. We are grateful to the National Bank of Ukraine for its constructive cooperation and implementation of our proposals. We hope that these recommendations will be effectively implemented,” emphasized Daria Sydorenko, Executive Director of the League of the Strong.
The League of the Strong’s proposals ensured that the Recommendations include the requirements of DBN B.2.2-40 “Inclusiveness of Buildings and Structures”, which applies not only to the premises of financial institutions, but also to the surrounding areas and entrance groups that provide access to such premises for people with limited mobility. This amendment will facilitate equal access to financial services for all citizens.
The approved methodological recommendations include, in particular, requirements for the arrangement of areas for servicing customers who use wheelchairs, which would ensure the possibility of free maneuvering in the premises of financial institutions.
In addition, the recommendations include a checklist for checking the accessibility of premises and an indicative action plan for their adaptation to the needs of people with disabilities, as well as a checklist for the inclusive friendliness of an institution’s employees and tips for comfortable service for people with various disorders of the body organs and systems.
The Guidelines on Rules for Inclusive Financial Services in Ukrainian Institutions are available on the website of the National Bank of Ukraine.