BANKS and building societies are closing dozens of branches across the UK this month – and HSBC is among them.
It is closing 11 branches in April as it transitions from in-person to online banking.
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It comes as Barclays, Halifax and Lloyds also plan to shut up shop on a number of branches too.
The data comes from LINK, the UK’s largest cash machine network, which reveals when the closures are planned for.
Barclays is set to close 22 branches in April while Halifax is closing six and Lloyds half a dozen.
Natwest is closing six branches while Nationwide is pulling down the shutters for good on one.
This is the list of HSBC branches closing in April:
- Abergavenny, Monmouthshire – April 18
- Alton, Hampshire – April 25
- Bexhill-On-Sea, East Sussex – April 18
- Blandford Forum, Dorset – April 18
- Cromer, Norfolk – April 18
- Downend, South Gloucestershire – April 25
- Leominster, Herefordshire – April 25
- Market Bosworth, Leicestershire – April 25
- Shaftesbury, Dorset – April 25
- St Austell, Cornwall – April 18
- St Ives, Cornwall – April 18
What can I do if my bank closes?
Banks have been closing hundreds of branches across the UK as customers transition from in-person to online banking.
But it can mean those without access to a computer or mobile phone are stuck without one near them.
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If you’ve found yourself in this situation, there are ways to get around it.
You can always switch banks to one that has a branch nearer you.
You can do this via the Current Account Switch Service (CASS), which is free to use.
You just have to join the new bank and they will handle the switch for you, given they are signed up to the service.
You will need to choose your switch date and organise moving any bank statements across though.
Some banks offer new customers switching bonuses to make the swap too – so you can earn yourself some free cash.
If you don’t want to switch banks, you can use Post Office branches to carry out most basic banking tasks.
But bear in mind you won’t be able to open a new bank account or take out personal loans and mortgages.
Some banks offer customers mobile banking services too.
This is where a bus drives to your area offering the same services you can usually get in a physical branch.
You should contact your bank or building society to see what they offer.
Other banks set up portable hubs in village halls and libraries where you can go and speak to members of staff and sort out any queries.
