Asda has become the first retailer in the UK to introduce talking cash machines to its stores.

It has teamed up with Barclays to install the specially designed ATMs, which have earphone sockets so the blind or partially sighted can plug earphones in and listen to the options read out.

The retailer said that the service, which has already been rolled out to 80% of its cash machines, would also benefit those with disabilities such as dyslexia.

The service has been launched in response to the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s Make Money Talk campaign. “Audio ATMs will benefit thousands with visual impairments,” said Kirsty Ward head of Asda Money.

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