No smiling faces in this snap! Our MP Brian Matthew met with representatives from Lloyds Bank yesterday to raise concerns about the closure of the branch in Devizes. Get in Brian, but it looks like we’ll be returning to the era of stuffing our cash into mattresses again….
Brian said he “discussed the impact on vulnerable customers who may need extra support with their banking and on local businesses for whom a local branch is helpful.”
Lloyds explained they are going to provide a fortnightly drop-in session to assist their customers with banking queries. They have also promised to ensure customers are aware of and supported through the transition. Hello? This is Devizes; expect fortnightly queues!
Have you ever tried to train a pensioner how to online bank?! It took me five years to show my mum how Facebook works!
We’ve come to the point where you’re made to feel guilty paying with cash, as the shop worker thrusts their card reader in your face. I’ve just about sussed online banking. It’s those pesky parking meters that send me into all kinds of flustered senior moments.
If we must face a cashless society, can we not wait for a generation to pass? It isn’t fair on them. I’d like to send these young entrepreneurs a hundred years ahead in time and ask them to work out quantum web diagnostics in fourth dimensional realities… or some other Dr Who type malarkey!
A charity trustee stated how important the branch is for depositing regular cash collections. “Once the branch has gone, it will mean travelling to a Lloyds branch in another town,” they expressed their concern. “Small businesses, clubs, charities still deal in cash and need the convenience and security of a local branch.”
Another comment said you need a branch for registering a lasting power of attorney, as you cannot do that online and must rely on the postal service. Well, I say that’s risking it a bit; can’t even get Auntie Doris’s birthday card delivered within a six month schedule!
Others have suggested a banking hub for all major banks. But yeah, that takes a united community effort; I’ll wait!
“I will be following up to ensure this happens,” Brian concluded about the fortnightly drop-ins and promises of training customers. “I will also be looking into access to cash in the town to ensure there is still sufficient provision for those who prefer to pay in this way.”
I’m glad we voted in this guy, he da man, but for now, it looks like the future of traditional banking is doomed here in Devizes. What’s that under your matress, Auntie Doris?!
Fortnightly Banking Drop-in Sessions Replaces Devizes’ Lloyds….
devizine.com 