Lloyds to cut 60 bank branches

Unite, the union representing staff at Lloyds Banking Group (LBG), has today (March 23) said more local communities will have their heart ripped out following the announcement of a further 60 bank branches.

The decision by LBG to close another 60 much valued bank branches which serve small business, the vulnerable, disabled and elderly, will deny access to cash and much needed banking services. This announcement will result in 124 job losses.

Caren Evans, Unite national officer said, “Lloyds Banking Group must not be allowed to abandon 60 more local communities where bank branches play an essential role. The 124 employees who work tirelessly in their communities are dedicated to serving the banking needs of the most vulnerable who depend on their skilled services.

“When a bank branch closes the heart of the local community is ripped out and the results are devastating,” she added. “Unite is clear that simply leaving an ATM in place of a vibrant bank branch is wholly insufficient.

“The banking sector needs to answer some serious questions about its corporate social responsibilities and the government cannot stand back and allow the relentless closure of banks to continue until no more local banking services remain.”

The 60 branch closures announced today are from all over the country. All the branches will close by the end of 2022.The Unite LBG branch closure taskforce will now review each branch earmarked for closure.

In October 2021 LBG announced the closure of 48 bank branches and in June 2021 the closure of 44 local bank branches.

Unite is dedicated to advancing the jobs, pay and conditions of its members and will fight back against any efforts to diminish workers’ living standards.

By Saba Edwards