Disabled individuals are facing unequal treatment from banks, with one person sharing their experience of having to sit on the floor while waiting in a branch. A study conducted by consumer group Which? highlighted the varying encounters of disabled bank customers, pointing out that some banks are not fully committed to inclusivity.
In the UK, an estimated 16.8 million people have disabilities, representing a significant portion of the population. However, Which? has raised concerns about the significant differences in services provided by major banks in the country.
Which? surveyed over 2,200 individuals with impairments that affect their daily lives, asking them to rate their current account provider on various aspects. The findings revealed disparities in the level of service offered by different banks.
Meanwhile, families are struggling to sell inherited retirement properties, with one individual reducing the asking price of his late mother’s flat by £55,000 but still facing challenges in selling it. This situation has led to significant annual fees while the property remains vacant.
The BBC reported the story of Joan Taylor, who purchased a flat in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, in 2015 for £225,000. Following her passing in June 2024 at the age of 96, her son Gordon Taylor has lowered the asking price to £170,000 but is encountering difficulties in finding a buyer.
In other news, Danone has issued recalls of infant and follow-on formula due to potential toxin contamination. The affected products include specific batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate formula, which may contain cereulide, a substance that can cause food poisoning.
Furthermore, the TV licence fee is set to increase from £174.50 to £180 in April, as confirmed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Holding a TV licence is necessary for recording live TV programs on any channel and for watching BBC iPlayer content, whether live or on catch-up.
Additionally, the average cost of new mortgages has slightly risen despite the Bank of England’s decision to maintain rates. Barclays, following HSBC and Nationwide, has increased its mortgage rates for fixed residential purchases and remortgages.
VISPA, a UK broadband provider, has ceased operations, leaving customers in need of alternative internet services. The company, founded in 1999 and based in Manchester, has informed customers via email of its decision to cease trading and begin liquidation proceedings.
Meanwhile, Lidl announced a £29 million pay rise for approximately 35,000 workers, marking its seventh wage increase since 2023. The supermarket chain will raise entry-level pay to £13.45 per hour nationally, reaching up to £14.45 for longer-serving employees.
Lastly, Greene King is offering free pints of Guinness during the Six Nations rugby tournament. To claim a free pint, individuals must book a table for any Six Nations game on February 7 through the Greene King website and show the booking confirmation at the bar.