NatWest says usage has plummeted 69 per cent in six years

The head of an over-50s campaign group has slammed the removal of the last cash machine at a Sheffield hospital.

Irene Day, chair of Sheffield 50+, said it was “absolutely shameful” that patients, staff and visitors should have to leave the Hallamshire to access cash.

She spoke out after NatWest announced it was axing the cashpoint by the main entrance on ‘B’ Road.

Abtisam Mohamed said removing the last cashpoint at the Hallamshire hospital would affect vulnerable and elderly people occupying the 500 beds, and staff. | IM and AM

placeholder image — Abtisam Mohamed said removing the last cashpoint at the Hallamshire hospital would affect vulnerable and elderly people occupying the 500 beds, and staff. | IM and AM

The bank claimed usage had fallen 69 per cent in the last six years and there is another cash machine less than a mile away on Glossop Road.

Writing on The Star’s Facebook page, Irene said: “I can just imagine the patients in their dressing gowns popping across to the convenience store in all weathers, to get cash for a newspaper or sweets.

“Patients are told not to take valuables into hospital for security reasons. I would regard my cashcard as valuable.

“Why are the elderly, disabled and most vulnerable in our society treated like this?

“It's disgusting!”

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Sheffield Central MP, Abtisam Mohamed, said it wasn’t the same as removing a high street cashpoint.

She told The Star: “Vulnerable elderly people, patients with restricted mobility, not to mention visitors who may be wrapped up with worry for loved ones, should not be expected to walk up to a mile to access cash.”

Responding online, Jennifer Dunstan said: “When my other half was in hospital for a week the cashpoint was very badly needed in order to nip around getting essentials.

“Plus we have to think of our older and disabled people who for various reasons may not be able to use cashless payments.”

Shelly Davis added: “Well done, hope it can remain. I know my 86-year-old mum-in-law used it while there, she feels so much better with a little cash on her.”

NatWest was approached for comment.

Previously it said: “We have been in regular contact with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust over the past year to discuss cash provision at the site and ensure there was sufficient time to consider future options.

“We have advertised the forthcoming closure of the machine for several months to allow customers time to adjust to the change.”

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said they appealed the removal but it was not upheld.