Liberty Bank and the non-governmental organization Partnership for Human Rights announced the introduction of a standard in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and released a public access assessment report.
With the initiative of Liberty’s new team, an audit was conducted by the NGO Partnership for Human Rights to improve access to banking products for people with disabilities, and an accessibility assessment document was developed.
In the private sector and commercial banks, it was the first time that the international valuation methodology was used. Liberty invited experts, civil society, and people with disabilities to lead the process. A group of experts was guided by similar methodologies and, by synthesizing analogs, a thorough report was created, which will contribute to the improved services of persons with disabilities in the bank. Based on the evaluation document, a Liberty Work Plan will be developed that will make banking services accessible to persons with disabilities, and the service standards will be fully aligned with the standards of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Based on the evaluation, a Liberty Work Plan will be developed that will make banking services accessible to persons with disabilities
“Our team’s efforts are aimed at transforming Liberty, introducing innovative banking products, and improving its service,” says Tea Leshkasheli, Deputy General Director, Operations Director. “The Liberty strategy ‘New Liberty for a New Life’ envisions caring for people. Our vision is to improve the lives of people and their families in Georgia and offer them simple and affordable banking products and services.
In the process of transformation, it is important for us to create an adapted environment and offer services and products tailored to their needs
“Liberty is the third systemic bank with the widest network. We have been serving people with disabilities and their families for many years. In the process of transformation, it is important for us to create an adapted environment and offer services and products tailored to their needs. I am glad that experienced experts and people with disabilities are involved in this process who will help us to manage the processes properly and create an action plan.”
“Liberty Bank’s initiative to critically evaluate its activities in order to start positive changes was sincere and case-oriented,” notes Ana Abashidze, NGO Partnership for Human Rights. “This is why we are happy to be involved with them in this work. With this initiative, the Bank began to implement systemic changes. We are also obliged to work with all important actors. When the private sector initiates such changes it is critically important and supportive of raising human rights standards. Working in partnership is the shortest and most effective way to quickly address the challenges faced by people with disabilities.”
