Not the revolutionary, fantastic system it was years ago
2
I have been with First Direct for over 25 years and, initially, was totally impressed with everything they do. They were revolutionary and I loved that about them.
As the years went on I noticed that other banks were offering better deals and long-standing, loyal customers weren't seeing these benefits.
I doggedly stayed with them, partly because I didn't want the hassle of moving accounts but, mostly because their UK-based telephone service was superb (lovely staff!) and their internet banking was quick and straightforward.
Sadly, the changes they have made to their internet banking over the past few years have made quick and straightforward a thing of the past and, when I ring because I can't access my account online, I am waiting for an average 5 minutes before I get past the recorded messages to speak to a real, live person. When I mentioned this to one of the telephone staff I was told that all banks operate the same system now. This made me wonder, "Why am I staying with you then?".
I am now in the process of switching my bank account and going to be paid for doing so. I shall be sad to leave First Direct but times have changed and, regrettably, my loyalty has counted for nothing.
(The two stars awarded are because the staff are still lovely - as you long as you don't mind hanging on until you get through to them)
Reviewed on: 19th July 2019
