I am one of the countless individuals who still rely on Santander Bank's physical branches. Despite the ongoing digitalization, not everyone is fully equipped or comfortable to transition into a completely digital banking system.Cash equals freedom, privacy and an alternative if card machines are down.

I am neurodivergent – ordinary tasks can sometimes be overwhelming for me. Having a brick and mortar bank like Santander provides much-needed comfort and convenience when dealing with essential tasks such as paying in cheques. However, this issue goes beyond personal need.

Cleveleys, being a retirement town, houses a considerable population of senior citizens who still conduct their transactions in cash, mainly due to technological unfamiliarity or a deeply ingrained habit from simpler times. They deserve to have their form of banking preserved.

Furthermore, the closure of the Santander branches would inevitably lead to job losses. This exacerbates the current unemployment issues which already stand at 4.9% in the UK (source: Office for National Statistics, Q4 2020).

Closing Santander's physical branches amounts to more than just a shift in banking practices. It would trigger a ripple effect of unintended consequences, impacting vulnerable communities. Therefore, we strongly urge Santander to reconsider their decision and keep their branches open.

Please sign this petition if you, too, believe in the importance of keeping physical banking accessible.