Cash machine locator app launched

A cash machine locator app showing where all the Link network's 70,000 ATMs are in the UK has been launched.

The app is accessible for visually impaired people and uses voiceover technology.

It has been developed with the support of Thomas Pocklington Trust, a sight loss charity.

The app, which is available to download for free from Apple and Android stores, enables people looking for their nearest ATM to filter the results to suit their needs.

It will show, for example, how close someone is to ATMs that provide audio assistance for people who are blind or partially sighted, cash machines that dispense £5 notes, free-to-use ATMs, or those belonging to particular organisations such as the app user's own bank.

People can also set particular ATMs, such as those near their home or work, as their "favourites".

The app will then alert them when they pass by as a reminder that they may want to get cash.

In 2016, consumers made around 2.1 billion Link cash withdrawals, amounting to a total of £129 billion.

John Howells, chief executive of Link, said: "Cash remains an essential part of our lives and is still the most attractive payment option for many of us in lots of situations."

Marsha de Cordova, engagement and advocacy director at Thomas Pocklington Trust, said: "We hope other organisations follow in Link's footsteps to make sure apps are accessible to all."

Further details about the app can be found at www.link.co.uk/atmlocatorapp.