Handling cash

Handling cash can be a challenge if you're blind or partially sighted because it's often difficult to tell the difference between denominations.

There are many ways to make it easier to handle and store your cash.

"To try and keep things simple, I withdraw only £5 and £10 notes from the bank. I always place the notes in separate sections of my wallet to make it easier for me when paying. It also makes me more confident that I'm handing over the correct notes and that I'm aware of how much cash I have in my wallet."

Notes

Note checkers and note detectors can help you to identify and store notes.

Note gauges

You can ask your bank for a note gauge, which will allow you to work out the difference between notes.

Rosalie Visick had this to share: "Barclays provides a single piece of plastic which has a narrow 'ledge' at the back against which notes can be held. It is dark blue and has the denominations marked in a paler blue and braille. Lloyds TSB produces a black gauge marked with clear white denomination figures into which notes can be slotted."

Note checker

You are also able to purchase your own note checker from our online shop. The note checker works by simply inserting the note lengthways until it fits into the checker.

There are "steps" on the other end of the checker which, when a note is lined up, will indicate the value of that note. The steps are ordered to identify £5, £10, £20 and £50.

Note detector

Alternatively, you can get a note detector, which is a small device that identifies different notes and lets you know by using a unique vibration for each denomination. It will detect the £5, £10, £20 and £50.

There is also a version to identify Euros for when you're out of the UK. You can purchase note detectors from our shop or by calling 0303 123 9999.

Using your fingers

If you prefer not to use products to identify your bank notes, perhaps "The Arthur Pearson method" is better for you.

Simply slide the note between your first and second finger. The ten pound note will be the same length as the first finger, the five pound will be shorter, and the twenty pound longer.

Obviously not everyone has the same length fingers, but with a little experimentation you can find what is right for you. The big problem may be ensuring that you have a £5, £10 and £20 note for comparison all at the same time!

Coins

RNIB has a range of simple coin holders including, £1, 50p, 20p and 10p coins. These all cost £1.27 and can be purchased from our shop or from our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.

There are also coins holders which act as key fobs, in addition to storing your coins. These can also be purchased from our shop or from our Helpline on 0303 123 9999.

Last updated: 31 January 2012

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