ERIC Number: EJ1460634
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Mar
Pages: 10
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1354-4187
EISSN: EISSN-1468-3156
Available Date: 2024-09-19
"I Forgot My Numbers and the Machine Swallowed It Up": Adults with Learning Disabilities Share Their Perspectives on the Shift to a Cashless Society
Paul Watts1,2; Janet Hoskin2,3; Radhika Upadhyay1; Emma Tapley1; Gosia Kwiatkowska2
British Journal of Learning Disabilities, v53 n1 p103-112 2025
Introduction: This paper examines the experiences of people with learning disabilities in the United Kingdom as society transitions towards cashless transactions and services. It is a significant study because it highlights the need to understand their digital financial experiences. Methods: This study employed an inclusive, interpretivist approach, focusing on participatory methods. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse data from focus groups including 40 people with learning disabilities across 3 day services. This original study included co-researchers with lived experience of learning disabilities who assisted in data collection and analysis. Results: Four key themes emerged: heterogeneity of preferences for cash versus digital payments; the urgent need for support and training in digital financial literacy; balancing safeguarding and fostering independence; and accessibility challenges in physical and online banking environments. Conclusions: The shift to a cashless society poses significant challenges for people with learning disabilities, requiring tailored support and training in digital finance. Financial institutions should be cognisant of these needs, suggesting that systemic changes are required for improved financial inclusion. The study highlights the importance of including people with learning disabilities in the design of digital financial tools and policies, to support their financial autonomy and independence.
Descriptors: Adults, Learning Disabilities, Attitudes, Disabilities, Foreign Countries, Monetary Systems, Financial Literacy, Banking
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2191/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United Kingdom
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1School of Health Sport and Bioscience, University of East London, London, UK; 2Rix Inclusive Research, University of East London, London, UK; 3School of Education and Communities, University of East London, London, UK