It's important everyone can use our website, whether it's to bank online, learn something new or contact us. Here's what we're doing to make it as easy as possible. You'll also find some technical guidelines to help you make sure you're set up correctly.
Accessibility guidelines
Our website adheres to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0. These guidelines are stipulated by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to ensure websites are accessible to everyone.
This means that:
- we only use strong colour contrasts
- headings are used correctly to make them readable by screen readers
- links do what they say. We don't use 'click here'
- tables are laid out in tabular form with headings and summaries
- we use style sheets to determine the presentation of our website - this assists those using screen readers
- we use alternative text on images, so they can be described by screen readers
You can also use a screen reader when contacting us via Chat.
Supported browsers
If you're having technical difficulties accessing the website, you may need to update your browser.
When using a screen reader, an out of date browser may cause problems with forms and buttons.
Here's a list of the browsers and operating systems we currently support:
Supported browsers
- Microsoft Edge
- Chrome (latest version)
- Safari (9 and above)
- Firefox (latest version)
Supported operating systems
- Windows 8 and 10
- Mac OS X 10.9 and above
Windows 7
In January 2020, Microsoft ended its support for Windows 7.
This means they have stopped offering security updates or fixes. As a result it's no longer one of our supported operating systems for online banking.
What to do if this affects you:
- upgrade to a newer operating system, if possible
- don’t use your Windows 7 device for online banking or shopping
- use another device, such as a tablet, if you have one. Or download our mobile app
You can find out more from Microsoft about what to do if you're still running Windows 7 on your computer.
These details are correct as of January 2020.
Pop-up settings
After a certain period of inactivity, online banking will sign you out for your security. A pop-up message will give you 60 seconds to confirm whether you'd like to stay signed in.
This message will not appear if you have pop-ups blocked. You can check this in your browser settings.
When using Chat with a screen reader you'll need to tab through to the end of the tabbing order to hear this message. We're currently working to make sure this message is surfaced more clearly.
More information on digital accessibility
There are organisations and charities who can offer further help with different types of digital accessibility.
AbilityNet is a charity that provides free support with digital accessibility. The AbilityNet website has lots of helpful tips, including simple ways to make your devices easier to use.
Sight loss charity RNIB also has information on desktop accessibility if you're blind or partially sighted.