Rural communities in Dorset suffering due to bank closures
50 bank branches have closed in Dorset in the last 5 years.
Citizens Advice Dorset is warning about the impact bank closures will have on our rural communities.
They've carried out a survey and found 37% of people said their ability to manage their finances have been impacted by bank closures. That means they have limited access, and longer travel times.
They're calling on Post Offices to increase their range of available banking services at local branches, and to create a greater awareness of the range of services available.
Rovarn Wickremasinghe, from Citizens Advice Dorset Research & Campaigns Group said:
“The closure of 1 in 3 banks, has resulted in people having limited access to banking services, which is a particular concern for the older generation and the vulnerable in rural locations.”
“Post Offices offer basic banking services including cash withdrawals, balance enquiries and cash and cheque deposits, but over half of the respondents asked (64%) did not use these services, possibly because they weren’t aware that they are available.”
WHY NOT USE ONLINE BANKING?
While internet banking is an option for many, 22% of people who responded to the CAB survey said they're not able to use online services.
They said either they lack the skills or a good enough WiFi connection necessary for it.
Since 2013 the temporary closures of Post Offices have almost doubled. For many people in rural communities, the Post Office is a life line.
Citizens Advice is urging the government to invest now in the Autumn Spending Review to ensure that the Post Office network is able to thrive and to continue to provide essential services, including a full range of banking services.