Mental Health

Around 1 in 4 people experience a mental health condition each year in the UK.
We understand that some conditions may make managing your money difficult.

Whatever your circumstances, if you choose to share with us how you are feeling we will do our utmost to support you.

We’re here to help

Anything you tell us about your mental health will remain confidential. It won’t impact any of the products or services you have with us or affect your credit score.

We will listen to your needs and work with you to see what we can do to help.

We will take the time to understand your concerns before offering appropriate support without any judgement or pressure.

See our Contact Us page for ways to get in touch, or visit your local branch.

 

Things we can do to make banking easier

If you find speaking on the phone challenging or it makes you feel anxious, there are other ways you can manage your accounts.

  • Our Banking App or online banking allows you to keep an eye on your balance, pay bills and move money wherever you are. You can use these at any time, even in the middle of the night if that’s when suits you best. You can also freeze/unfreeze your card and order a replacement debit card without having to call us.
  • If you prefer to speak to someone face-to-face, you can visit your local branch.
  • Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions page – you may find the answer to your query here.

Remember you can also deposit and withdraw cash at any Post Office®
 
If you find it difficult to use or remember your PIN, you can:

  • View your card PIN using our Banking App or online banking.
  • Request a Chip and Signature card. This works by using your signature rather than keying your PIN. It’s useful if you find it difficult to remember numbers or find it challenging using keypads.
  • Use your contactless card to buy items up to £100.
  • Use your smartphone for contactless payments, using Apple Pay or Google Pay.

 
If you have a branch appointment with us, we can:

  • Arrange longer appointment times to ensure you are comfortable with any information discussed.
  • Ensure your appointment takes place in a private, quiet room.

You are welcome to bring a trusted third party such as a friend or relative or your support worker if you have one, to any appointments.

We know that not all mental health conditions are visible and recognise the Jam Card scheme in all of our branches. If you have a Jam Card let us know and we’ll make sure you are given all the time you need.

 

Things you might want to consider

  • Mental health conditions and money worries are often linked. If you are finding it hard to budget and keep a track of your finances, or facing financial difficulties we’re here to help. Visit our Managing your money and Support during financial difficulties pages for advice on staying on top of things and details of support organisations who can help.
  • Visit our Financial Wellbeing Centre – we can help you work out the health of your finances and ways to improve them.
  • During challenging times you may find it helps to have someone to support you in managing your accounts. Visit our Arranging someone to help manage your account page.
  • If you are worried about your mental health speak to your GP. You can also find a list of support organisations who offer advice and support under Useful Contacts.
  • If you are worried about someone else’s mental health encourage them to speak to their GP.

 

Useful Contacts

Mind
Advice and support for anyone experiencing mental health challenges

Shout
Free, confidential and 24/7 text messaging service for anyone in the UK who needs mental health support

NHS
Information and support for mental health

Samaritans
For whatever you’re going through a Samaritan can face it with you 24/7 365 days a year