A NEW Community Banker has been appointed to North Ayrshire by RBS - to coincide with the closures of three local branches.

Back in November 2017, the Herald revealed that the Royal Bank would be closing their Saltcoats, Kilwinning and Kilbirnie branches as part of cuts across the country.

Following the announcements, plans were put in place for mobile banks to serve the area and the customers - and they will be accompanied by new Community Banker, Lisa Lauffer.

Lisa will be based in Kilbirnie, Kilwinning and Saltcoats with regular drop-in sessions being held as well the mobile van stops.

Lisa said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to develop a strong relationship with our customers in the local communities, helping to ensure that The Royal Bank of Scotland remains an important part of its many thriving communities. The impact of technological changes on the way people bank with us has been dramatic but we’re also aware that some people prefer a face-to-face channel for their banking.

“In my role as Community Banker I’m looking forward to hosting regular events at local venues to help educate customers on being financially fit, training them on the different ways to bank in a digital world and how they can protect themselves from fraudsters.”

The mobile van will stop at the following locations:

· Kilwinning Library car park Monday 1.45-3pm and Thursday 2.15-3.15pm

· Saltcoars Sainsbury’s car park Tuesday 1.30-3pm and Friday 1- 2.30pm

· Kilbirnie Garnock Street car park Wednesday 10.30am-12pm.

Drop In clinic locations:

· Each Tuesday - 12 June-17 August - Saltcoats Library 2.45-4.45pm

· Each Wednesday - 13 June-17 August - Radio City Cafe Kilbirnie 12-2pm

· Each Monday - 18 June-17 August - Kilwinning Library 2.45-4.45pm

As part of their role, Community Bankers:

· Host regular events across the community to educate customers on being financially fit, living in the digital world and preventing fraud.

· Conduct financial health checks with customers to identify opportunities to help them with new products or services appropriate to their goals, needs and priorities.

· Engage with the community through a number of channels such as charity events, social groups and other community activities.

· Use social media to share useful and relevant financial and digital information and tips.

· Signpost or coach customers through The Royal Bank of Scotland’s online application process for new products and services, providing them with the skills to self serve for future needs.

· Help customers identify the different ways to bank, supporting them in choosing the right service options for their needs.