AIB partners with AsIAm to make all branches autism-friendly

Eva Osborne

AIB has partnered with Ireland’s autism charity, AsIAm, to make all of its 170 branches around Ireland as user-friendly as possible for people with autism.

Every AIB branch has received Autism Friendly Accreditation from AsIAm to ensure they are as accessible and inclusive as possible for autistic people.

The branch sensory environment has been enhanced to include changes in lighting to make the public areas of its buildings warmer and more accessible.

Dedicated quiet spaces and sensory kits are also available at each location. In addition, the bank is providing sensory maps on its website showing the layout of each of its branches to help customers plan their visit.

It also plans to partner further with AsIAm in providing specialised customer support training in Autism Understanding and Acceptance to colleagues across the branch network.

AIB’s managing director retail banking, Geraldine Casey said: “AIB has the largest branch network in Ireland and with the support of AsIAm, we are delighted to say that all of our branches have been enhanced to make them as user friendly as possible for autistic people, making AIB the first Irish bank to receive the accreditation for all its branches.

"Our branches play an important role in communities around Ireland and our people are committed to ensuring that they are as inclusive and welcoming as possible for all.”

AsIAm’s chief executive, Adam Harris, said: “We are absolutely delighted to see AIB leading the way as the first Irish financial institution to provide Autism support in every branch.

"This is a landmark step toward true inclusion and accessibility, ensuring that Autistic individuals and their families can navigate everyday banking with confidence, dignity, and understanding."