People who are shielding and are unable to leave their homes will be able to have cash delivered to their doors.

Initially, it’s available to around 27,000 Post Office Card Account customers in England as part of a partnership between the Post Office and Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

When notified by DWP of those who require a cash delivery, the Post Office will ensure cash is sent to their home using Royal Mail Special Delivery and that it arrives by 9pm the following day.

The Post Office said it repurposed part of its foreign exchange cash delivery business to enable the overnight delivery of cash to the most vulnerable customers.

Guy Opperman, minister for pensions and financial inclusion, said: “We’re doing whatever it takes to ensure people are supported through these unprecedented times. This joint initiative enables us to reach out directly to those most likely to need support, and get cash delivered to their door where necessary.

“Thanks to the hard work of DWP and Post Office staff, vulnerable customers can rest assured there is help available if they need it.”

Nick Read, chief executive at the Post Office, said: “I am delighted that Post Office has been able to switch its travel money delivery business to get cash directly to those who need it most. Working with the DWP we are able to help some of the most vulnerable in our society, including those who have been asked to shield themselves at home, with the ability to deliver cash directly to their door.”