Banking on Inclusion: CI&T and Project Nemo Redefine Financial Access
The prototype is a direct response to the Project Nemo report, Safe Spending for Adults with a Learning Disability, published earlier in June, developed by Firefish, sponsored by Nationwide and commissioned by Project Nemo, with support from
The report exposed a stark reality: 38% of people with learning disabilities need ongoing help with everyday spending, and 32% do not have a bank account in their own name. It also highlighted how complex banking processes, inaccessible tools, and a lack of personalised support leave many financially excluded and at risk.
CI&T’s team engaged directly with individuals with lived experience — people with learning disabilities, carers, and accessibility experts — to design an app that addresses these challenges head-on.
For the first time, this community has had a direct voice at the design table—an opportunity to share their needs and perspectives with the financial services industry. This marks a significant shift from the past, when individuals with learning disabilities had little choice but to accept what was offered. Now, their input provides valuable, practical insights that can help shape more inclusive and responsive banking services.
In only six weeks,
While primarily designed for adults with learning disabilities, its advanced features and versatile configurability also significantly benefit neurodiverse individuals and anyone seeking greater confidence and support in managing their finances.
Some of these features include:
- Supported decision-making: Users maintain complete control of their accounts; supporters can view and offer encouragement, but never act without explicit permission.
- Personalised onboarding: The app adapts to each user's confidence, habits, and accessibility needs.
- Calm mode: Reduces sensory overload and simplifies the interface during stressful moments.
- Emergency pot: A protected fund for unexpected needs, with optional spending locks and supporter assistance.
- Supporter Oversight: Trusted third parties receive real-time alerts and offer support while users remain in control.
- Learning over time: The app evolves with users, gradually unlocking more features as confidence grows.
“The path to true innovation is paved with diversity, accessibility, and inclusion," said
"I'm incredibly thankful to the
Some of the individuals with firsthand experience who collaborated on the prototype’s development included
The app is not only a practical tool, but also a statement of intent. It demonstrates how the financial sector can and should evolve to serve everyone, not just those who fit the standard mould. It also shows that inclusive innovation doesn’t require compromise, only the will to involve those most affected from the start.
The launch marks a milestone in the movement for financial accessibility, a practical, purpose-driven solution that turns research into action and empowers a community that has waited too long to be included.
With this launch,
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About Project Nemo
Project Nemo is a catalyst for change. A grassroots, not-for-profit campaign accelerating disability inclusion within fintech, led by
https://projectnemo.co.uk/
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250623974228/en/
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