We’ve recently taken the very difficult decision to close 17 of our branches. Here we’ll explain more about why we’ve made the decision to close a branch and tell you about the services and support that will be available to members after the branch has closed.
Why we’re closing branches
Following a detailed review of our branch network we can see the way members are using our branches has changed. People are visiting us less and less each year, reducing the number of times they visit, and using alternative ways to manage their money - over the telephone and online.
In some of our locations there are days where we have very few members transacting in our branches. In others, less than 30% of members have transacted in the branch in the last 12 months. We also have decreasing customer numbers and savings balances in some branches. Whilst we know it doesn’t suit everyone there is a continuing trend towards having the ability to transact digitally and we’ve seen this trend continue post the pandemic.
We have a responsibility to our members to make sure we have an efficient branch network and that we operate in locations where members need and use them the most. We’ve been very thoughtful, and done a significant amount of analysis, to understand the impact branch closures will have. We have looked at the distance to an alternative Nottingham branch, whether there are other financial service providers on the high street or whether we are the last remaining branch. We’ve also considered the impact on colleague morale of working in branches where they have little to no interaction with members.
What happens next
We’re writing to all members to inform them of the closures – you can read the letter here.
For those members impacted directly by a closure we are sharing details of their new branch and will work with them to provide all the necessary support and answer any concerns they might have. We recognise that for some members their new branch may not be convenient and if we can’t find a way to help them with their savings, we’ll help them find other suitable savings options elsewhere.
Which branches are closing and what it means for me
Click on a branch below to learn more about why it’s closing, including the next nearest branch and alternative ways we can help.
If you need more information or have questions please visit your nearest branch or contact us using one of the options here.
Last updated on: