PTSB achieves Business Working Responsibly Mark and launches initiatives to support people with physical disabilities and those who are neurodiverse.
Following a comprehensive programme of work, PTSB has been recertified with the Business Working Responsibly Mark (‘the Mark’) from Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI) and is one of only 40 companies across Ireland to have achieved this certification.
In addition, the Bank has introduced a number of customer and colleague initiatives, including Voice Guidance functionality nationwide to support visually impaired customers and a new Employee Resource Group (ERG) focussing on physical disabilities and neurodiversity.
The Mark is the only independently audited standard for Sustainability in Ireland and is audited by the National Standards Authority of Ireland, based on the international standard for social responsibility.
The Mark, first received by the Bank in 2020, represents a standard for sustainability that goes beyond legal compliance by fostering a culture of responsible business through continuous improvement, ongoing accountability, and leadership.
PTSB’s recertification highlights the achievements and progress made by the Bank through delivery of its Sustainability Strategy, which includes a focus on four pillars aimed at integrating EESG consideration into all areas of the business.
Progress made, aligned to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, includes;
Building on its commitment to deliver exceptional experiences to its customers by leveraging technology, PTSB has also introduced Voice Guidance functionality on all PTSB ATMs and SSBMs nationwide and is the only bank in Ireland with this support available for visually impaired customers.
Additionally, the Bank is rolling out new PTSB Debit cards to customers following its recent rebrand. These cards will include a small notch on the right side of the card which makes it easier for visually impaired customers to identify which way to use their card in ATM and Chip and PIN machines.
The Bank has also launched a new Employee Resource Group (ERG), ADAPT (Abled and Disabled Allies Partnering Together), which focuses on physical disabilities and neurodiversity. ADAPT will support in increasing awareness and education, providing practical supports in creating an accessible workplace for all colleagues.
Partnering with The Irish Centre for Diversity, ADAPT is delivering disability awareness training to colleagues across the Bank. The addition of this new ERG is a further step towards creating a more inclusive PTSB – one that represents modern Irish society.
PTSB has also renewed its Just a Minute (JAM) card partnership which supports customers with a learning difficulty, autism or communication barrier. This is alongside the introduction of Easy To Read photo guides for customers with intellectual disabilities, with training underway using Lámh hand signs.
”It is clear that immediate action is needed to secure a sustainable future. Achieving the Business Working Responsibly Mark is a demonstration of our Purpose in action, and PTSB’s recertification is testament to the achievements and progress made by the Bank.
We are committed to building a sustainable organisation that is fit for the future, enabling us to play our part in addressing the global climate crisis, but also elevate our social impact, enhance our culture, and deliver what matters most to our customers and colleagues. The Bank commits to delivering an exceptional experience to all customers, colleagues and communities, especially those in our communities who might require additional support or are vulnerable.”
“We are delighted that PTSB is being recertified with the Business Working Responsibly Mark. They showed leadership throughout the entire process demonstrating their dedication to all EESG aspects of sustainability. They are one of our most active members by fully participating in our Low Carbon Pledge to decarbonise their operations, our Elevate Pledge to improve diversity and inclusion within their workforce and being in our Leaders Group to champion and instil best practice in areas of sustainability. As an organisation PTSB always strive for continuous improvement and for this we commend them and look forward to continuing to work with them.”
The Voice Guidance functionality announced today supports all transactions available through PTSB’s nationwide ATM and SSBM fleet, excluding lodgement services.
