British bank to shut down website with customers told to use app in move branded 'disgusting'

Joe Sledge
Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:58:03 +0000

Barclays has sparked anger after revealing it will shut down the Barclaycard online banking website and require customers to manage their accounts solely through its mobile app.

The bank notified customers this week that its Barclaycard online servicing will close this summer.

Parent company Barclays, which serves more than 20 million customers across the UK, said the move reflects a growing shift towards app-based banking.

In a message sent to customers, the bank said the change may feel unexpected but confirmed it will not affect how accounts or cards are used.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

Research from Age UK indicates a significant proportion of older people continue to rely on in-person banking services.

The charity found that 27 per cent of people aged over 65 use branches or Post Offices to manage their finances.

Among those aged 85 and over, only 14 per cent use online banking, while 58 per cent rely entirely on face-to-face services.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

Reform UK plans to scrap 'gold-plated' public sector pensions for new workers

Ed Miliband's Net Zero energy 'being wasted' and 'households paying the price', EDF boss warns

UK borrowing falls by £19.8billion in boost for Rachel Reeves — but economists warn rises ahead

Age UK also reported that 31 per cent of over-65s feel uncomfortable using online banking due to concerns including fraud, lack of trust and limited digital skills.

Customers have also expressed concerns about the changes on social media platforms.

One user wrote on Reddit: "They're closing banks, and now they're closing websites. Not everyone uses apps."

The move comes amid a wider reduction in access to physical banking services across the UK in recent years.

Barclays closed 962 branches between 2015 and the end of 2022, the highest number among individual banks.

Across the sector, an average of 54 branches have been closing each month since January 2015, reducing access to in-person banking in many areas.

Age UK has warned that nearly one in five older people would struggle to manage their money if their local branch were to close.

A Barclays spokesperson said: “Following a review, we will be simplifying things for customers by replacing the dedicated Barclaycard website with account servicing via Barclays online banking.

"This change will be implemented gradually and with no loss of access to online banking for those who use it regularly.

"Throughout, customers will still be able to apply for a new card or administer their existing account as usual via the Barclaycard or Barclays apps, telephone banking, or in branch.”