Wider role could secure the future of post offices

POST Offices could be used to deliver more council services - in a move which could offer better access to vulnerable people and also save the embattled Post Office network, the industry's watchdog has claimed.

Consumer Focus Scotland has published a report recommending that additional public services should be identified by the Scottish Government which could be delivered through the 1,400 Post Offices sited in communities around Scotland.

The group claims that moving more services to the Post Office would ensure a consistent approach across the country and benefit elderly or disabled people who may find it difficult to access central council facilities.

"Post offices are Scotland's largest retail chain, as well as being trusted and valued hubs embedded in local communities across Scotland," said Consumer Focus Scotland postal services policy manager Annie McGovern.

"Offering more council services at post office counters could bridge the digital divide and help to preserve these vital community assets that so many vulnerable people clearly depend upon."

Services offered through post offices in other countries include payment of childcare fees in Australia, applications for disabled parking permits in Italy and pre-paid city and airport parking in Ireland.

In Fife, police have recently started an initiative at seven post offices in the area, where local residents and visitors can report minor crimes, submit driving documents and collect and hand in lost property.

A spokeswoman for the Post Office welcomed the report: "Post Office Ltd has read the Consumer Focus Scotland report with great interest," she said. "We are keen to grow this business because, as this report suggests, this will benefit customers, the councils themselves and help bring trade to sub-postmasters in local high streets and communities throughout Scotland."