BARP and Central Bank Conduct BiMPay Training for Seniors

More than 70 seniors are now comfortable navigating BiMPay, the Central Bank of Barbados' national instant payment system, following a four-day training programme delivered in partnership with the Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP). The sessions formed part of BARP's wider digital literacy initiative for its members.

“This partnership speaks to the Central Bank’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen can benefit from the introduction of BiMPay. It's about making sure our seniors are not left behind as Barbados advances its digital payments landscape,” said Novaline Brewster, the Bank’s Director of Communications, Information, and Outreach. “We've already seen a number of participants download the app and link their accounts, which tells us the training was successful," she revealed.

Steve Alleyne, CEO of BARP, also stressed the importance of the initiative. “Digital literacy for older Barbadians isn't a nice-to-have anymore, it's essential. Programmes like this give our members the confidence to navigate an increasingly digital landscape, from banking to staying connected with family. BARP will continue to prioritise partnerships that put our members first." 

The training was delivered in two parts. Part one covered what BiMPay is, its key features, and how to onboard safely. Part two was a hands-on session, with facilitators guiding participants step by step through using the app and staying protected online.

Participants responded well to the practical format, with many seniors saying the hands-on portion made the process feel simple and manageable. "I would suggest people go on it. It's a really easy system and straightforward. Everything is right there," said one participant following the practice session.

The facilitators also noted that the participants were very engaged with the material and were working through the various transactions with confidence by the end of the sessions.

"Overall, it has been a rewarding experience, and it shows that BiMPay is for everyone," said Sherri Bishop, Deputy Director, Communications and Outreach, reflecting on the programme as a whole.

The training was led by Bishop and Natasha Beckles, Senior Communications Officer, alongside Brewster, Omari Taylor from the Bank’s Management Information Systems Department and interns Devari Springer-Lewis and Khalia Greenidge. The Bank’s representatives remain in contact with participants and have committed to providing additional support and training as seniors continue to adopt BiMPay for everyday transactions.

The training makes up part of an ongoing partnership between the Bank and BARP aimed at building digital literacy among Barbadian seniors, equipping them with the confidence and skills to navigate mobile apps and digital transactions safely and independently.