Natwest set to close 32 bank branches – which areas will be affected? | Personal Finance | Finance
This comes after many of its outlets saw a decline in footfall during the pandemic with many customers opting to use online banking instead of visiting their local branch. The next batch of closures will predominantly affect NatWest and Royal Bank of Scotland branches. Some 32 branches are set to be shut down within the next 12 months, according to NatWest.
Due to concerns about how older customers will be impacted by the closures, the bank promised to “contact vulnerable customers to ensure they can continue to bank with us in the way which suits them best”.
Recently, Natwest has introduced a new postal cash delivery and Companion Card service nationally for their customers who are most in need of support.
A NatWest spokesperson said: “As with many industries, most of our customers are shifting to mobile and online banking, because it’s faster and easier for people to manage their financial lives.
“We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren’t right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no one is left behind.
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“We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online, so we are investing to provide them with support and alternatives that work for them.”
The following branches are affected by Natwest’s latest restructuring:
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Billericay
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Borehamwood
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Bulwell & Hucknall
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Chelsea
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Gillingham Kent
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So far, it is unknown how many jobs will be affected by NatWest’s latest round of bank branch closures.
Last year, the financial institution reduced the number of people it employed in its retail business division when it ended, ending 550 jobs and closing one of its London offices.
At the time, a NatWest spokesman explained: “We have taken the decision to invite applications for voluntary redundancy and will support those colleagues who apply with a comprehensive support package.
“There will be no compulsory redundancy as a result of this announcement.”
