More than 400 ATMs have already gone live with the new facility, while over 1,000 machines with talking functionality will be launched by the end of 2013, with a further 1,000 planned for 2014.

Simply plugging a headset into the ATM, customers can use the machine and the service will be available for Link and Visa card holders from all banks.

High-contrast screens have been designed to assist partially-sighted customers in banking transactions, according to the bank.

Co-operative Bank payments head David Fawell said that the bank is committed to implement talking and high contrast services on our cash machines.

"Our aim is to extend this out to over 2,000 cash machines which is three quarters of our entire estate by the end of 2014," Fawell added.

Launch of the talking ATMS has been supported by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), which advises and supports the blind and partially sighted population.