First Direct

As a longstanding customer of First Direct, they used to be a great, customer-focused bank and I was a huge advocate of theirs.

In recent years, they have turned their back on providing services that they have provided for decades.

In particular, they have continually reduced long-established arranged overdraft limits that have been responsibly managed by customers.

I only need arranged overdraft limits to facilitate intra-day transactions. (Pre-arranged Direct Debits, Standing Orders & forward-dated ad-hoc payments). I always top-up my account before the close of business to clear any temporary intra-day overdraft balance.

Despite this demonstrable, diligent & responsible management of my account, First Direct keep reducing my arranged overdraft limit to ever-lower levels, thereby increasing the risk that prearranged, scheduled payments will fail, and I will incur unwarranted overdraft penalty charges.

Requests to reinstate previous, longstanding arranged overdraft limits are rejected and appeals to senior management/Executives are abruptly rebuffed.

This is so unnecessary, frustrating, annoying & offensive.

A customer-hostile bank that likes to say “No”.

I’m no longer an advocate of First Direct, who have clearly lost their focus on providing good customer service and have instead now become customer-hostile & ignorant.

Current and deposit accounts held easy to use web site and App excellent phone service

The First Direct app is one of the best financial applications that I have ever used; it makes transfers particularly easy in comparison to several other competing platforms that I have used. I have been a satisfied user for the last 18 months and would advocate for others to consider using their current and saving accounts if they were looking for such services.

Very good platform and customer service

Excellent and responsive customer service, and great products with a competitive rate on regular savings account.

Long established trailblazer, setting the benchmark for the disruptors to aspire to

Good app and great customer service

Telephone banking is quick and reliable