It was announced today that in its first month of operation, 1,470 customers have accessed Bank of Ireland’s new dedicated Covid-19 support services for over 65s, carers and healthcare workers.
The cocooning support service is designed to help customers self-isolating during Covid-19 (including older customers and those in vulnerable situations) conduct some banking services and access cash for day-to-day expenses.
Customers who are already self-isolating – and those who may be required to in the future – can nominate another person to make in-branch cash withdrawals and lodgements on their behalf. The new facility has built-in safeguards such as limits on withdrawals and daily monitoring by the Bank’s dedicated Vulnerable Customer Unit.
Bank of Ireland say 140 customers availed of the new cocooning service which provides customers access to cash without having to leave their homes. A further 1,330 customers have received help with their personal finances through the bank’s dedicated customer support line.
The Bank has also launched a new Covid-19 service for customers over 65 who require a printed bank statement, where they can call 1800 946 146 and a statement will be sent to them by e-mail or post.
Discussing the service, Ross Moore, who manages Bank of Ireland’s Vulnerable Customer Unit said, "A significant number of customers have already reached out for support in the past few weeks and we would urge those over 65, carers or healthcare workers in need of financial wellbeing assistance to get in touch. This is an unsettling time for everyone, but customers’ financial wellbeing is our priority and we hope that our ‘Cocooning Support’ provides one less thing to worry about for those who are most vulnerable."
Source: www.businessworld.ie