LLOYDS BANK HAS announced an easier way to deposit cheques in a move that has been welcomed by West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin.
Customers can now pay in cheques via freepost, as well as through Post Offices and Banking Hubs until 2030.
Dame Harriett Baldwin wrote to Lloyds to raise concerns in Pershore and Upton after customers complained it was no longer accepting cheques at Banking Hubs.
Lloyds confirmed it had stopped accepting cheque deposits through Post Offices and Banking Hubs this year, but changed position to cater to elderly and vulnerable customers against a backdrop of declining high street banking. Dame Harriett praised the new postal deposit system and Lloyds for listening to its customers.
Dame Harriett said: “I know lots of local people still use cheques to send and receive money. Whilst many banks have offered alternatives, not everyone uses online banking or is able to travel to larger towns to bank in-person.
“I am pleased that Lloyds has done the right thing and introduced free, postal cheque deposits and I hope that customers take full advantage.
“On the Treasury Select Committee we have closely examined trends in physical banking services and the changing face of the high street.
“Sadly many banks have abandoned our towns despite my pleas, but the Post Office and Banking Hubs remain an option for anyone who prefers a face-to-face service.”