Since the introduction of Forces Financial’s free to use cash machines 9 months ago, over 45 machines have been installed at bases, stations and establishments across the UK saving personnel over half a million pounds in transaction charges. Not only have the savings been significant but the number of transactions made through the machines has increased by 138% since the start of the year. Establishments that have recently taken delivery of the facility include The 5th Battalion of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, HMS Nelson and RAF High Wycombe.

Al Voice, Forces Financial Managing Director explains, “We are a company that has a fundamentally responsible approach to business, and one that genuinely seeks to put something back. It is clear that the location and visibility of these machines greatly increases the opportunity for personnel to not only save on withdrawal fees, but also to manage their finances more effectively as they can check their balance regularly, and withdraw smaller sums – keeping both temptation and the risk of theft at bay. As a business we recognise the need to provide genuine value for our customers, and are continually seeking new avenues, such as working with Bank Machine to provide the ATM service, to deliver this.”

On the introduction of the Forces Financial service in November 2006 Defence Minister, Derek Twigg, stated: “There have always been a range of ways for Service people and their families to access their money for free but this new offer means even easier access to their hard earned cash. Any plan to provide free machines to our Service people must be good news and will be welcomed by members of the Armed Forces and their families.”

Forces Financial, a specialist in insurance, travel and banking services for the military, has teamed up with Bank Machine, the UK’s premier independent ATM operator, to offer the commanders of every UK military establishment a free-to-use cash machine. This initiative is one of many introduced since the launch of Forces Financial in November 2006.

* Based on £1.99 charge per withdrawal transaction