Widespread bank and building society closures in the UK have sparked concern for older and vulnerable people who are less able to use online and mobile banking services.
For some, visiting a branch to register Power of Attorney would be preferred over going online, but options are available at the high street banks?
A GB News reader who is concerned about the impact branch closures will have on people who need a Power of Attorney contacted our money team, explaining their local bank branch was closing.
GB News has investigated how people can register Power of Attorney at different high street banks.
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HSBC UK now has a branch network of 327 branches
PA
HSBC UK
HSBC UK, having closed 736 branches since January 2015 according to Which?, has vowed not to announce any more bank branch closures in 2024.
HSBC UK now has a branch network of 327 branches.
There are two ways to register a Power of Attorney with HSBC UK – online or by visiting an HSBC UK branch.
An HSBC UK spokesperson told GB News: “We are always looking at ways we can improve our services for our customers which is particularly important when handling life events.
“At the moment customers can register as a Power of Attorney through our online channel or go into a branch.
“We are currently reviewing our Power of Attorney registration process and exploring other ways to support this process, such as by telephone.”
NatWest
NatWest says to register a Power of Attorney, customers can apply online or visit any NatWest branch.
However, if more than one attorney is being added, the applicant will need to visit a NatWest branch and bring the Power of Attorney document along. They will also need an item to confirm identity and another document showing proof of address.
NatWest Group, which is the owner of NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland and Ulster Bank, has closed 1,330 branches since January 2015, according to Which?.
GB News has contacted NatWest asking for comment.
Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Banking Group, comprising Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland, has closed 1,057 branches since January 2015, Which? data shows.
For those affected by branch closures, Lloyds Bank offers an alternative to going online.
In some circumstances, it may be possible to register over the phone, the website says.
GB News understands that in most circumstances, the representative can register a Power of Attorney on the phone, by post or in a branch.
In some cases, such as where the Power of Attorney states representatives need to act jointly, they can register in a branch or by post.
The bank will need to see the Power of Attorney document, as well as identification for all of the representatives registering, which can be accepted through the post, in the branch or via a document upload link sent by the bank.
Once registered, representatives will be able to act on behalf of the customer by getting in touch by phone, post or in a branch. If they have a UK mobile number, they can also register and use internet banking via the desktop website.
Santander
Santander has closed 477 bank branches since 2015, Which? data shows, but the bank says it remains committed to the current network of 445 branches.
Customers can book an in-branch appointment to register a Power of Attorney, but there are also alternative options.
For those unable to travel to their local branch, they can register a Power of Attorney by:
- Downloading and completing the postal registration form, which can then be returned by post to Santander’s Power of Attorney registrations team. These can also be delivered by their nominated Power of Attorney to their local branch.
- Calling the Power of Attorney helpline and requesting a postal form
- Completing the online registration form.
Barclays has closed 1,130 branches, Which? said
PA
Barclays
Barclays has been named the individual bank to have reduced its branch network the most, with 1,130 sites having now closed, Which? said.
Barclays says representatives can register Power of Attorney online or in a branch.
The bank lets people book an appointment with the bank at a branch or Barclays local, and appointments will last around an hour.
The website explains people can submit their Power of Attorney details and documents using the online form.
Alternatively, Barclays directs people to call the bank, although representatives who don’t already bank with Barclays will need a smartphone or tablet to verify their identity without visiting a branch.
The website says: “If you are having difficulty using the online form and you are unable to come and see us, you can call us on 0345 075 7475 and choose option one.
“We will explain your options to register your authority and what you need to send us.
“If you do not already bank with us, you will need identity documents such as a passport or a photocard driving licence.
“You will also need a smartphone or tablet to verify your identity. If this is not an option, then you can verify by visiting a branch.”
GB News has contacted Barclays asking for comment.
