A basic bank account can be useful for if you're in financial difficulty or if you're struggling to access mainstream banking products – because, for example if: 

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• You have a poor credit history or no credit history;

• You've been declared bankrupt;

• You're using a debt management product, such as an individual voluntary agreement (IVA), a debt management plan (DMP) or a debt relief order (DRO). 

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You'll need to be at least 16 to open the account, or 18 and over at some banks. Bear in mind that you may also be credit checked to open a basic bank account and you may need to provide proof of identification and address. 

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As you can use the account in largely the same way as a regular current account – having wages paid in and setting up direct debits for bills, for example – it could help you with your personal money management.​

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They don't charge you for Direct Debits, Standing Orders Etc. There are no fees for standard banking, but may have a charge for special services, ask when you apply.​