Press Release
Chip and PIN cards
15 February 2006
On Wednesday 15th February 2006, Chip and PIN cards are being introduced across the country. For some disabled people and those with long term health conditions, these cards may prove difficult or impossible to use.
Natalie Salmon, Head of Goods and Services at the DRC said today:
"We are concerned about the confusion that seems to be reigning - inconsistent information from bank staff and inconsistent information from retail staff.
"The Disability Discrimination Act means that retailers and banks have to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people who are unable to use PIN cards or find it physically difficult to key in their numbers.
"Adjustments could be accepting a chip and signature card instead of a chip and PIN card or adapting the service area so that customers with a visual or mobility can easily use the PIN machines.
"In refusing to make changes, retailers and banks could be breaking the law and may face court action if they don't accept alternative methods of payment
"We are currently investigating a number of cases of potential discrimination and will not hesitate to pursue legal proceedings if we believe companies are in breach of the law. This could result in fines of up £50,000."
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