Consumer Focus Post is warmly welcoming the Business and Enterprise Select Committee’s recognition that, in order to ensure the Post Office network’s future, existing and new Government services must be provided through the Post Office and greater access given to financial services. It also believes the proposed Government-wide co-ordinator of services through the Post Office would help drive new services towards the Post Office.
However the consumer champion is warning that equally Post Office Limited must fulfil its role to make the network as efficient as possible, and ensure first-class customer service in order to create new business. It is also important that measures which would protect consumers within the Postal Services Bill are not delayed.
Chris Thirkettle, post offices expert for Consumer Focus Post, said:
‘The post office network is now at a crossroads. In order to put the network on the path to survival and success, urgent Government action is needed.
‘Even in this digital age people still need to be able to access the face-to face advice and essential services that post offices can, and do, provide. However in order for post offices to thrive, Government and local authorities must provide additional products and services through this trusted and valued community hub.’
Notes to Editors
1. Consumer Focus Post is a statutory organisation that champions the interests of postal consumers across Northern Ireland. Consumer Focus Post started operating on 1st October 2008.
For further details please see our website: http://www.consumerfocus-post.org.uk/
2. There are currently 492 post office outlets in Northern Ireland.
