Post Office alters new keypads

The keyboards were part of a Post Office update

Newly installed keypads used to pay pensions and benefits at 17,000 post offices across the UK will need alterations because they break disability discrimination laws.

The Post Office has admitted it knew the equipment failed to comply.

The keyboards were installed at every counter in the country and were designed to allow people to collect their benefits and pensions in cash.

It is part of a government plan to get rid of giros and order books and get everyone paid electronically into bank accounts.

But people with visual, mental or physical impairments found the new keyboards difficult to use.

A spokesman for the Post Office told BBC News Online that keyboard "guards" would be fitted that make the pads easier to use for people with disabilities.

The change to electronic benefits payments has a two year overlap during which time people can still be paid over the counter.

In January, the Post Office announced it was finally moving into 21st Century payment methods by accepting debit cards.

Before, parcels and postage had to be paid for in cash or cheques.

However the update was in part reliant on computer upgrades which the company has accepted are not working.