HSBC has strengthened its retail coronavirus measures, warning customers that they may face having their account withdrawn should they decide not to comply with guidelines and wear a mask in store.
Measures come amid speculation that Prime Minister Boris Johnson is on cusp of tightening England’s National Lockdown orders, which are set to be in place until at least until the middle of next month – with the government reviewing options on a weekly basis.
Jackie Uhi, head of branch network for HSBC UK stated to The Mirror: “Our branch colleagues are key workers, continuing to go to work in our branches every day so that customers who need them can access essential financial services.
“Sadly, some people are failing to protect themselves, our branch colleagues and other customers by refusing to wear a face covering inside our branches or observe social distancing.
“Our colleagues deserve respect and should not have to face violent or abusive behaviour. Consider whether you need to visit the branch or could manage your banking from the safety of your home via our digital channels.
“If you do visit us, please wear a face covering and maintain a safe distance from others. If individuals put themselves or our colleagues at risk, without a medical exemption, we reserve the right to withdraw their account.”
It comes as the UK recorded 1564 daily deaths from Coronavirus, the highest number since the pandemic began.
The UK’s regional governments have allowed highstreet banks to remain open during the winter lockdown period. Yet, the majority of companies have enforced ‘limited opening hours’ across their estates.
HSBC, Barclays and RBS have warned customers to check their individual banking apps to check opening times for highstreet banks across England.
