Access to banking is critically important, and high street bricks and mortars banks provide a crucial service for those that prefer to bank in person.
Face to face appointments are important, particularly when looking to take out a mortgage or a loan, and Michael Gove MP visited Nationwide Building's Camberley branch to hear about the help and services they offer.
For many, the shift to online-only options for everyday activities such as paying for parking, booking travel and paying bills, is a struggle, with Digital Poverty Alliance stating that approximately 11 million people in Britain struggle accessing and using online services. Those most by impacted by these changes are often the most vulnerable, such as people with disabilities, the elderly and those on lower incomes. A survey by Age UK estimates 40% of the over 75s don’t use the internet at all.
For these people, access to a person they can talk to in-branch about their finances and carry out transactions is essential.
Commenting, Michael said:
"Earlier today, I visited Nationwide Building Society’s Camberley branch to mark 50 years since it first opened on the High Street in 1973.
"I had a tour of the branch and spoke to the team there about their commitment to my constituents. I also heard about the help that they are providing to customers struggling with the cost of living, and the work Nationwide is doing to support first time buyers.
"Access to banking is critically important for my constituents, and that is why I’m delighted that Nationwide Building Society has promised to keep its branch network open, including here in Camberley."
Pictured, Michael Gove with members of Nationwide Building Society's Camberley branch
