NATIONWIDE says it will be bringing disabled-friendly features to every branch in the country.

The building society, which employs about 2,000 people in its Pipers Way headquarters and in branches in Swindon, is introducing Helping Hand features.

These include Braille banknote sizers, cheque and credit card templates, and an easy-grip pen for people with painful joints.

There are also clipboards and a mouldable pad so wheelchair users can write on their laps.

Branch employees have received disability awareness training.

Valerie Webb, the chairwoman of Nationwide's disability action group, said: "The Helping Hand unit has been well received by our employees who now have these additional tools to help them deliver improved customer service to disabled people."