As more and more British people rely on digital channels, almost 6000 bank and building society branches have closed in the UK since 2015, and another 645 are scheduled to close this year.

However, of the 2000 persons questioned for Nationwide, almost 75% are worried about the frequency of closures, and about half—including 50% of those between the ages of 16 and 24—are irritated to discover a branch closed when they needed it.

Among those polled, over two thirds still think highly of branches. When asked why, 41% mention how crucial it is for those who are vulnerable.

When asked why they appreciate branches, 44% of respondents said cash withdrawals, 28% said checking balances, 19% said transferring big sums of money, and 38% said in-person assistance with fraud and scams.

"What's clear from our research is that people of all ages are frustrated and concerned about the rate of branch closures," says Stephen Noakes, director of Nationwide's retail division. We hear from our own clients how much they depend on them."

Nationwide recently reaffirmed its pledge to stay in all locations where it currently has branches until at least the beginning of 2028.

But the lender has also lately been embroiled in a legal dispute regarding branch claims; an advertisement that falsely implied that it had not been closing branches was outlawed.