Following the announcement that the NatWest Branch in Berkhamsted will be closing on 25th January, Gagan Mohindra arranged a meeting with NatWest representatives in Westminster to raise concerns that he had received from Berkhamsted residents.
With just under 80% of Berkhamsted-based NatWest customers using online banking, and the branch itself only having one regular customer (defined as a person visiting once a month for the last 12 months), NatWest have taken the decision to close the branch.
Whilst the branch will be closing, NatWest confirmed the following after Gagan asked how they will be protecting vital banking services in Berkhamsted:
- A dedicated ‘Vulnerable Customer Line’ has been introduced for those who are vulnerable or have disabilities to access support.
- They have worked with the Berkhamsted Post Office branch for the last 3 months to provide services. They have walked customers to the branch and held events to inform customers of services that remain available. Customers can deposit over £3,000 at the Post Office and withdraw £500 in cash.
- Free ATM availability remains in the local Tesco Store.
Following the meeting, Gagan commented: "I am pleased that NatWest has continued to put in place services that are accessible for those who prefer in-person banking. I know that many of my constituents in Berkhamsted and beyond have raised fears about access to cash. I was pleased that during our meeting, I was told that NatWest remains committed to the Cash Action Group which champions the use of cash across the country."
