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Sanctuary's survival threatened by bank account closure
16 Apr
Summary
- Sanctuary feared for survival after bank accounts were closed.
- Charity cares for 64 miniature Shetland ponies needing weekly vet care.
- Lloyds Bank accounts were reopened after swift intervention.
Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue in Devon faced an existential crisis when its bank accounts with Lloyds Bank were abruptly shut. The sanctuary, home to 64 miniature Shetland ponies, expressed severe concern over its financial viability. Administration assistant Mickey Killick described the situation as terrifying, emphasizing the ongoing need for weekly veterinary care, dental work, and sustenance for the animals.
The charity stated they had banked with Lloyds for 12 years without issue and had funds in their three accounts. A bank request for trustee information was provided, but a subsequent failed card payment led to the account closures, which the charity disputed. Lloyds Bank apologized for the distress, citing regulatory standards for account operation.
Following the incident, the bank confirmed that all necessary information had been received and the sanctuary's accounts were back up and running. The rescue centre expressed that the ordeal had left them "hanging on by our teeth."
