ATM provider Link has today added thousands of Post Office branches to its smartphone app in a bid to help people find their nearest cash machine amid an ongoing access crisis.
Link, the UK’s main cash machine network, has updated its ATM locator to include thousands of Post Office locations across the country.
The app, launched in 2017, will allow you to see both the locations of 62,500 Link ATMs as well as branches in the Post Office network, where consumers can conduct their everyday banking services over the counter, deposit money and withdraw cash for free.
It means despite thousands of ATMs disappearing over a funding row , people will be able to find the locations for around 11,000 more free ATMs - and cash services - at their fingertips.
Many of these will also be closer to home - with 99% of people living within three miles of a Post Office and 93% of people one mile.
The app shows you where your nearest ATM or Post Office is and has the ability to filter your search results, for example by finding ATMs that provide audio assistance and ATMs that dispense £5 notes.
It also includes top tips on how to stay safe when using an ATM. For Post Office branches, the app will also provide opening times, so customers can make sure their visit is seamless and convenient.
Mary Buffee, at Link said: “Millions of people rely on cash and for thousands of consumers, the LINK ATM app has been a handy tool for locating the nearest ATM.
"The Post Office allows customers to withdraw cash from their account, so it is sensible to integrate their network to the app so customers have more information at their fingertips. Consumer spending habits are changing, but it’s always good to know where you can cash out when you need it.”
Martin Kearsley, at the Post Office said: “With 93 per cent of people in the UK living within one mile of their nearest Post Office, our branches are convenient and accessible places for customers to pop in and withdraw and deposit cash, as well as check their balance, all over the counter.
"Being able to find the nearest branch, alongside the UK’s network of ATMs, is great news for our customers and postmasters alike; handy information for customers, and a great way of highlighting just one of the vital services our postmasters offer to their communities.”
The app is available to download free of charge on both the Apple and Android stores.
