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LINK and Citizens Advice to investigate access to cash

1 February 2012

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Today LINK, the UK cash machine network, Citizens Advice and Citizens Advice Scotland have launched a new research project on access to cash.

The research will look at how people access their cash (whether it’s through cash machines, banks or other ways), how much of a problem it would be if they could only use a cash machine provided by their own bank and if the cash machine they use most regularly charges a fee.

It will also explore whether different people face particular problems in getting their money.

Anyone who would like to take part in the research can fill in a survey at their local Citizens Advice Bureau or complete it online at www.adviceguide.org.uk

Citizens Advice Chief Executive Gillian Guy said: “

We want to understand more about how people get hold of their own money, whether there are any obstacles that stand in their way and, if so, what could be done to make it easier.

“Our network of bureaux allows us to get really good feedback and information from over 3000 communities across the country – so we expect to get some insightful findings.”

John Howells, LINK CEO commented, “

Cash still accounts for the majority of payments in the UK and easy access to cash is vital for the UK economy. This is especially so for people on lower incomes and those who rely heavily on cash to live their lives.”

John added,

“Citizens Advice helps millions of people each year by providing free, independent, confidential and impartial advice and are therefore a natural partner for LINK to do this work with.”

The research will take place between February and March this year and the results will be available in the summer.

Citizens Advice

Notes to editors

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, and national charity Citizens Advice. Together we help people resolve their money, legal and other problems by providing information and advice and by influencing policymakers. For more information in England and Wales see www.citizensadvice.org.uk
  2. The advice provided by the Citizens Advice service is free, independent, confidential, and impartial, and available to everyone regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or nationality. For online advice and information see www.adviceguide.org.uk
  3. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.1 million clients on 6.9 million problems from April 2011 to March 2012. For full 2011/2012 service statistics see our quarterly publication Advice trends
  4. Out of 22 national charities, the Citizens Advice service is ranked by the general public as being the most helpful, approachable, professional, informative, effective / cost effective, reputable and accountable (nfpSynergy’s Brand Attributes survey, May 2010).
  5. Most Citizens Advice service staff are trained volunteers, working at around 3,500 service outlets across England and Wales.