Cash Access UK: 50th bank hub opens aiding communities nationwide with easy access cash amid branch closures

Cash Access UK, an organisation created to help safeguard access to cash, has said the 50th banking hub has opened.

The group said that it hopes to reach 100 by the end of the year, with its most recent hub opening in Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders. As more and more bank branches close, the hubs fill in the gaps for communities and make it easier for small businesses to bank cash.

The Post Office runs a counter service where customers can conduct routine banking transactions. Each hub has a private area where customers can consult with staff representing their respective banks for more complex matters.

Banks participating in each hub operate on a rotational basis, ensuring the presence of staff from different banks on varying days. Gareth Oakley, CEO, Cash Access UK: “In a short space of time, we’re very proud of the difference the hubs are making.

“If you visit the more established hubs, you will also see how they are bringing energy and life back to these communities too.”

Ross Borkett, banking director at Post Office, said: “This is a significant milestone for both Cash Access UK and all of our postmasters who operate the banking hubs.”

Bim Afolami, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said: “I look forward to seeing more hubs opening in the coming months.”

Hubs are recommended by cash access and ATM network Link, which reviews communities based on criteria including number of shops, transport links and deprivation.

Recommendations are then delivered by Cash Access UK, a not-for-profit organisation, which is owned and funded by nine major banks. From the day a Hub is recommended, it typically takes about 12 months to open.

In locations where it proves difficult to find a suitable property, Cash Access UK can open temporary hubs, giving more time to secure a permanent home for the hub. The 50th banking hub has been established as a temporary hub in Exchange Street, Jedburgh.