Disabled individuals face unequal treatment from banks, with one customer sharing an experience of having to sit on the floor while waiting in a branch. A recent study by consumer watchdog Which? highlighted varying levels of service for disabled bank clients, with some banks accused of merely paying lip service to inclusivity.
In the UK, an estimated 16.8 million people have disabilities, representing a quarter of the total population. Despite this, Which? identified significant discrepancies in the services offered by major banks in the country. The investigation involved over 2,200 individuals with impairments affecting their daily activities, who rated their current account providers on various criteria.
Meanwhile, families are struggling to sell inherited retirement properties, with one individual reducing the price of his late mother’s flat by £55,000 but still facing challenges in selling it. The property, located in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, was initially purchased for £225,000. However, restrictions limiting potential buyers to those over 70 have made the sale difficult.
In other news, Danone has issued additional recalls of infant formula due to potential toxin contamination. The affected products include specific batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate formulas, which may contain cereulide, a substance that can lead to food poisoning.
Moreover, 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. This rise of £5.50 from the current rate is necessary for those recording live TV programs or watching content on BBC iPlayer.
The average cost of new mortgages has slightly increased, despite the Bank of England’s recent decision to maintain interest rates. According to Moneyfacts, the average rates for two-year and five-year fixed mortgages have risen incrementally. Several banks, including Barclays, have raised their mortgage rates for residential purchases and remortgages, following the freeze in the base rate.
Additionally, UK broadband provider VISPA has ceased operations, prompting customers to seek alternative internet services. The company, established in 1999 in Manchester, has reportedly entered liquidation following financial difficulties and negative reviews.
In the retail sector, discount supermarket Lidl announced a £29 million pay increase for its 35,000 employees, marking its seventh wage rise since 2023. Entry-level pay will rise to £13.45 nationally and up to £14.45 for long-serving staff, with higher rates in London.
Furthermore, Greene King is offering free pints of Guinness during the Six Nations rugby matches. Customers can claim their free pint by booking a table for any game on February 7 through the Greene King website, as part of the Fans Reunited campaign.
Lastly, Halifax reported the average house prices in January and the annual changes in prices.