Which? responds as Santander announces 111 branch closures

Gareth Shaw, Which? Head of Money, said:

“The bank branch network continues to shrink at an alarming rate, often leaving entire communities without somewhere to withdraw cash or speak to someone face-to-face about sensitive financial matters. This announcement means Santander has now closed 470 branches since 2015.

“Although many consumers can benefit from digital banking, shutting branches has a significant impact on those who still rely on them for essential banking services like withdrawing cash, particularly if they are vulnerable.

“Banks look set to continue to make these changes without having put in place suitable alternatives, and despite the regulator asking firms to reconsider branch closures during lockdown. The government must urgently set out its plans for introducing legislation protecting access to cash.”

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