Nearly three in five (58%) Brits say they find it easier to discuss their financial options with a person rather than online, Skipton Building Society has revealed.

The society’s survey of 2,000 adults found that while there is a continued shift towards digital banking, 40% would like to see more physical bank or building society branches open near them,

Over two thirds (69%) said a local bank or building society branch they use has closed in the past decade, while 78% believe bricks-and-mortar branches remain a "cornerstone of British high streets".

The consumer research is reflected in Skipton’s own data, which recorded a 33% increase in people seeking personal support, either face-to-face or via video call between January and September, compared to the same period in 2025.

The Skipton found that 67% of 18- 24-year-olds say they prefer discussing their financial options in person, while 28% would love to see more branches open near them.

More than half (54%) have noticed bank or building society branches closing in their area over the past decade.

The latest data comes as Skipton Building Society opens its new flagship in Cheapside, London, as it looks to strengthen its high-street presence.

CEO Money at Skipton Building Society, Jasvinder Gakhal, stated: "When people are making important decisions about their finances, they often want the reassurance of being able to talk through their options with someone and get support that’s tailored to them.

"That’s why we believe there is still an important role for branches on our high streets. The opening of our new Cheapside branch is about giving people that choice, whether they want to manage their money digitally or come in and have a conversation face-to-face.

"People are increasingly comfortable using technology and AI to help manage their money, but that doesn’t mean they want human support to disappear. It’s about giving people choice and making sure they can speak to someone when they need to, particularly when making bigger or more complex decisions about their finances."

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