Barclays, HSBC, NatWest, Lloyds, Nationwide, Santander, TSB and Danske Bank have agreed the approach, with others considering it. The Access to Cash Action Group (CAG) is a long-term commitment to ensure cash and banking access for communities where services are limited. From today, if a bank in the initiative decides to close a branch, it will inform Link. Bosses of the ATM network will see what closure means for cash provision - and if another solution is needed.

       Link may, for example, suggest a refurbished Post Office or a bank hub. These would see banks work jointly to offer basic cash services, with spaces for customers to speak to their own provider. Each may offer its own services on different days of the week.

       Communities will also be able to request a review of their needs from the summer. Cash use is 35 per cent below prepandemic levels but millions of people still use ready money daily while firms need a place to access and deposit it. Link has assessed most communities where closures have taken place over the past year and what services are planned for 2022.

       They include free ATMs in Betchworth, Surrey; Bo'ness, West Lothian; Brentwood, Essex; Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly; Low Fell, Gateshead; Merthyr Vale, South Wales; Mosborough, South Yorks; Norwich; Putney, south-west London; Woolhampton, Berks; and Woodbury in Devon.

       Meanwhile, the Post Office is ready to deliver improved cash services in up to 30 branches. Its current agreement with many banks lets customers do everyday banking at its counters.