Barclays Bank’s Response ‘Constructive’

Michael has said discussions with Barclays regarding the announced closure of their Farningham branch have been ‘constructive’.

‘There is a regrettable trend away from high street banks to online banking, which is understandable but can leave local businesses and customers dependent on the bank with few other options’, Michael said.  ‘That’s why it’s important that Barclays now support the community in delivering alternative banking provision.’

In their letter to Michael, Barclays said 74 customers have been identified as being dependent on the Farningham branch.  Barclays have assured Michael that they will contact each of these customers to ensure they have a better understanding of the alternative banking options available.

‘I welcome the support Barclays plans to provide in our area during this transitional period’, Michael said.  ‘Our job now is to ensure that customers and businesses do receive this support and that local premises that can offer full banking services for customers and businesses are able to do so.’

Michael has contacted Barclays for a further meeting.  He hopes to organise an event in the constituency whereby customers dependent on the Farningham branch are trained in accessing alternative banking safely and securely.