Appointeeship | Becoming a DWP Benefits Appointee
Opening a bank account as an appointee and your role and responsibilities
As digital payments continue to replace cash, most people now use contactless cards or mobile phones to make purchases. But for many older people and those with learning or physical disabilities, using a smartphone can be confusing or physically difficult.
That’s where payment rings and other wearable devices can make a real difference — providing a simpler, safer, and more inclusive way to pay.
At Money Carer, we believe wearable payment technology can play a vital role in promoting financial independence and inclusion — and that major payment networks like Mastercard and Visa should do more to support these solutions.
Payment Rings vs Mobile Phones
| Feature | Payment Ring | Mobile Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Just tap your hand — no screen, PIN, or app needed. | Requires unlocking, app navigation, and PIN or fingerprint. |
| Accessibility | Great for people with dexterity, memory, or learning challenges. | Can be difficult for those unfamiliar with smartphones. |
| Security | Uses secure tokenization; no personal data stored. | Strong security, but relies on device settings and internet. |
| Maintenance | No charging or software updates. | Requires daily charging and regular updates. |
| Independence | Promotes autonomy and confidence. | Often requires technical help or support. |
Why Payment Rings Are More Accessible
1. Simple for Everyday Use
For people who struggle with touchscreens or apps, simplicity is everything. A payment ring doesn’t need a phone, password, or internet connection — just a quick tap at the checkout to complete a secure payment.
2. Helps People with Dexterity Problems
Many older people or those with conditions such as arthritis, tremors, or limited hand mobility find it difficult to hold or insert a card into a reader. A payment ring eliminates that challenge.
Because the ring is worn on the finger, there’s no need to fumble with wallets, purses, or small buttons. Simply bringing the hand close to a payment terminal is enough. This makes wearables particularly helpful for people who might drop cards or struggle with small, fiddly objects.
3. Always Ready to Go
Payment rings are battery-free and waterproof, so they’re always ready to use — unlike phones that need charging or software updates. That reliability is crucial for users who may not be comfortable managing devices.
4. Safe and Secure
Every transaction uses encrypted NFC technology and tokenization, which protects card information. Even if the ring is lost, it can be deactivated instantly without exposing personal details.
The Role of Payment Networks in Inclusion
At Money Carer, we believe global payment processors like Mastercard and Visa must take a broader view of accessibility.
While mobile payments are convenient for many, they exclude people who cannot use or afford smartphones — particularly older adults and those with learning disabilities.
By supporting and investing in wearable payment options, payment networks can help build a financial system that includes everyone. This means recognising wearable payments not as a novelty, but as an essential assistive financial tool that gives people independence, confidence, and dignity.
Moving Toward a More Inclusive Future
Technology should empower everyone — not just the tech-savvy. Wearable payments like rings, bracelets, and key fobs show how innovation can make life easier for those often left behind by digital banking.
For carers and families, these tools provide reassurance and control. For the people using them, they bring freedom, dignity, and a sense of ownership over their daily spending.
At Money Carer, our mission is simple: to make financial independence and inclusion accessible to everyone — regardless of age, ability, or experience with technology.
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As digital payments continue to replace cash, most people now use contactless cards or mobile phones to make purchases. But for many older people and those with learning or physical disabilities, using a smartphone can be confusing or physically difficult.
That’s where payment rings and other wearable devices can make a real difference — providing a simpler, safer, and more inclusive way to pay.
At Money Carer, we believe wearable payment technology can play a vital role in promoting financial independence and inclusion — and that major payment networks like Mastercard and Visa should do more to support these solutions.
Payment Rings vs Mobile Phones
| Feature | Payment Ring | Mobile Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | Just tap your hand — no screen, PIN, or app needed. | Requires unlocking, app navigation, and PIN or fingerprint. |
| Accessibility | Great for people with dexterity, memory, or learning challenges. | Can be difficult for those unfamiliar with smartphones. |
| Security | Uses secure tokenization; no personal data stored. | Strong security, but relies on device settings and internet. |
| Maintenance | No charging or software updates. | Requires daily charging and regular updates. |
| Independence | Promotes autonomy and confidence. | Often requires technical help or support. |
Why Payment Rings Are More Accessible
1. Simple for Everyday Use
For people who struggle with touchscreens or apps, simplicity is everything. A payment ring doesn’t need a phone, password, or internet connection — just a quick tap at the checkout to complete a secure payment.
2. Helps People with Dexterity Problems
Many older people or those with conditions such as arthritis, tremors, or limited hand mobility find it difficult to hold or insert a card into a reader. A payment ring eliminates that challenge.
Because the ring is worn on the finger, there’s no need to fumble with wallets, purses, or small buttons. Simply bringing the hand close to a payment terminal is enough. This makes wearables particularly helpful for people who might drop cards or struggle with small, fiddly objects.
3. Always Ready to Go
Payment rings are battery-free and waterproof, so they’re always ready to use — unlike phones that need charging or software updates. That reliability is crucial for users who may not be comfortable managing devices.
4. Safe and Secure
Every transaction uses encrypted NFC technology and tokenization, which protects card information. Even if the ring is lost, it can be deactivated instantly without exposing personal details.
The Role of Payment Networks in Inclusion
At Money Carer, we believe global payment processors like Mastercard and Visa must take a broader view of accessibility.
While mobile payments are convenient for many, they exclude people who cannot use or afford smartphones — particularly older adults and those with learning disabilities.
By supporting and investing in wearable payment options, payment networks can help build a financial system that includes everyone. This means recognising wearable payments not as a novelty, but as an essential assistive financial tool that gives people independence, confidence, and dignity.
Moving Toward a More Inclusive Future
Technology should empower everyone — not just the tech-savvy. Wearable payments like rings, bracelets, and key fobs show how innovation can make life easier for those often left behind by digital banking.
For carers and families, these tools provide reassurance and control. For the people using them, they bring freedom, dignity, and a sense of ownership over their daily spending.
At Money Carer, our mission is simple: to make financial independence and inclusion accessible to everyone — regardless of age, ability, or experience with technology.
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