Cash Access UK opens new banking hub in Earlestown

The hub, launched by Cash Access UK, is now operating at 30 Bridge Street in Earlestown, delivering essential banking services for both businesses and individuals.

The site offers a counter service run by the Post Office, allowing customers of all major banks and building societies to carry out everyday cash transactions.

Gareth Oakley, CEO of Cash Access UK, said: "I’m happy to announce that the new banking hub in Earlestown is now open, giving local residents renewed access to cash and in-person banking services.

"The hub is available for everyday banking transactions every day of the week, and for more specific or complex enquiries, a community banker will be on-site to assist on designated days."

Community bankers are also available throughout the week, with each day dedicated to a different bank.

This allows customers to discuss more complex banking needs with a representative from their own bank.

The schedule is as follows:

- Monday: NatWest

- Tuesday: Lloyds (from October 14)

- Wednesday: Halifax (from October 15)

- Thursday: Barclays (from October 16)

- Friday: Santander

Cash Access UK said it is working to secure a permanent location for the hub in Earlestown but will continue operating from the temporary site in the meantime.

This is the second banking hub to open in Merseyside, following the launch of a similar service in Prescot.

What is a banking hub?

Banking hubs are shared spaces on the high street designed to support communities that have lost access to traditional bank branches.

They are part of a wider effort to protect access to cash and essential banking services, particularly for people who rely on in-person support.

The hubs are funded by a group of the UK’s largest banks, including Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, Santander, and HSBC.

Cash Access UK operates as a not-for-profit organisation, delivering shared services where they are most needed.

Despite the decline in cash use, an estimated five to six million adults in the UK still rely on cash for their day-to-day transactions.

Small businesses are also able to use the hub for services such as cash withdrawals, deposits, and coinage.

The decision to open a banking hub is made by LINK, the UK’s cash machine network.

LINK assesses the impact of bank branch closures and determines where additional services are required.

Communities can also request an assessment from LINK if they believe they need improved access to cash.

The full address of the Earlestown banking hub is 30 Bridge Street, Earlestown, WA12 9BA.

Hubs typically open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Cash Access UK is supported by a wide range of banking groups, including AIB NI, Bank of Ireland UK, Barclays, Danske Bank, HSBC UK, Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest Group, Santander, TSB, and Virgin Money.

For more information about the banking hub or to find updates on its location, residents can go online.