Banks’ failing technology unacceptable for consumers

Citizens Advice has stressed the need for banks to invest in technology in order to make sure consumers aren’t left without access to their cash as some customers were this weekend.

Citizens Advice Chief Executive Gillian Guy said:

“Banks need to put customers first by investing in technology to make sure people aren’t stranded without access to their money.  Failing systems that undermine the fundamentals of day to day banking, meaning people can’t withdraw cash or pay by card, is just not acceptable.   It is important that banks take steps to make sure their infrastructure is up to scratch to avoid the farcical situation that customers experience this weekend.”

Notes to editors:

  1. The Citizens Advice service comprises a network of local bureaux, all of which are independent charities, the Citizens Advice consumer service 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 see the Citizens Advice website .

  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.

  3. To find your local bureau in England and Wales, visit citizensadvice.org.uk . You can also get advice online at adviceguide.org.uk

  4. You can get consumer advice from the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 06 or 03454 04 05 05 for Welsh language speakers

  5. Citizens Advice Bureaux in England and Wales advised 2.3 million clients on 5.4 million problems from October 2013 to September 2014. For full 2013/2014  service statistics see our quarterly publication Advice trends

  6. Citizens Advice service staff are supported by more than 21,000 trained volunteers, working at over 3,000 service outlets across England and Wales.