North west least likely to have cash access

More regions of the north west struggle to access cash than anywhere else in the country, a new report by Fair4All Finance has found.

Who is affected?

Less than half of the residents in the following six north west local authorities can find a cash point within a mile:

• Rochdale – 37%
• Bolton – 38%
• Burnley – 39%
• Oldham – 42%
• Hyndburn – 43%
• Blackburn with Darwen – 44%

Cash accessibility crisis

Although most towns struggling are in the north west, Peterborough tops the list as one of the most financially-neglected towns.

Just 21% of residents here are able to access cash nearby.

Following closely are Middlesbrough (23%) and South Tyneside (27%).

Why does it matter?

For many, cash isn’t just a way to pay for things like coffee or their bus fare; it’s essential for budgeting and vulnerable households.

Over 3 million people depend on cash for most or all purchases – it’s the main spending method for 1.5m adults.

We’re using more cash too, as the cost-of-living crisis forces us to tighten our budgets.

 But not having enough cash points available can make things even harder for those who are already facing challenges.

What’s being done?

The government has pledged to establish 350 banking hubs in communities where banks have closed.

One recently opened in Darwen after more than three years without a high street bank.

These hubs, operated by the Post Office, aim to provide essential banking services to those in need.

Under FCA rules, banks must make sure residents can still access cash before closing any branches or ATMs.

If a town loses all its banks, the banks need to provide a cash access hub. You can find more details about these hubs in our guide.