Supporting customers
The war placed immense strains on bank customers. Our banks worked hard to meet their changing needs.
Customers on active service
Customers, new and old, found their banking requirements changed significantly when they went into uniform.
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Customers in uniform
Banks offered special services to meet the needs of customers in uniform.
Imprisoned or interned customers
Customers imprisoned or interned overseas needed special support.
Military pay agents
Some banks specialised in serving customers in the army or navy.
Government contractors
Businesses undertook government contracts for everything from uniforms and boots to tents and medical supplies.
Other business customers
Even customers in sectors not directly connected with war work were significantly affected by war conditions.
Coping with government controls
The government relied on banks to exert influence over the financial affairs of the population.
Enemy connections
Some customers were affected by Trading with the Enemy laws, which placed controls on people connected with enemy nations.
Branch networks
Branches opened to serve new factories and camps, while others closed amid diminished local need and staff shortages.
Branches in continental Europe
One of our banks expanded its existing European business during the war, to support customers with international ties.
The customers’ view
Much changed in banking during the war, and banks depended on the understanding and support of customers.