Following the news that Barclays will be closing their Wallington branch, I’ve had several residents get in touch to express their concerns over what this will mean for accessing their accounts.
I was keen to schedule a meeting with the bank as soon as possible, and so appreciated the team coming up to Westminster due to the various Parliamentary commitments. It soon became clear that this was a sign of how keen they are that as many local customers as possible are aware of what they have planned once the branch does close, and how they can still access their accounts in person.
During our discussion, Barclays outlined their reasons for closing the branch, which I do believe itself is unfortunate. However, I was enormously encouraged with what the bank is going to do and have in place once the closure happens.
It is incredibly important, especially when considering the demographics of those who live in our area, that there remains the option to speak to a bank representative – whether about savings or accessing their account. After all, not everyone banks on the Internet, and some may just feel more comfortable speaking about an issue face-to-face.
I believe that Barclays’ plans will hopefully ensure that anyone needing access to their account and seek advice in person will still be able to. This is because their post-closure programme includes several elements that should cater to as many different people as possible.
Included in this is a roll-out of a full-time, committed hub within a community asset manned by a permanent Barclays’ staff member, who will do much of what they would behind the conventional bank counter at the moment. Especially reassuring is that this will be open five days a week. This model has been in use for a while now across towns close by and has been incredibly successful.
Barclays will also continue to visit Dobbie’s on Woodmansterne Lane with their mobile banking bus every other Tuesday and Saturday. Again, this will be staffed by experienced team-members who will be able to assist with any queries customers have, and offer a wide range of advice on products, such as mortgages, savings accounts, and others.
Local customers will also continue to be able to draw out and pay in cash from their accounts across all Post Office branches for free. Barclays are also planning to work with me on making sure the local Wallington Post Office is fully able to handle any increase in footfall and those using the counter services. This is something that I have already been pressing for, and will continue to do so in light of Barclays’ decision. Barclays has also provided a useful leaflet detailing the various banking functions that can be done at the Post Office.
The team have also underlined that all customers – both personal and business banking – who are identified as vulnerable will be contacted over the next three months ahead of the bank closure to explain their post-shuttering programme.
I will continue to work with Barclays’ to ensure that their plan is rolled-out and will be sure to communicate these updates with residents.
As always, if there’s anything that I might be able to help with, please do get in touch!