The requirement for a new "basic" bank account that is separate from your existing bank, and any possible linked debts or overdrafts, is mentioned and discussed frequently on the forum. I also understand that most standard current accounts will not allow you to continue if you are in a TD.

I have recently decided to open such a basic bank account and I am happy to report that I have been accepted by the Co-op for their basic Cashminder Account (which has NO overdraft and NO cheques book but does have a Visa Debit card provided). I am not in a TD currently(but my credit rating is pretty dire!!) and I am looking forward to the future and setting up the bank account now, for when I may indeed be looking to get advices and commence a TD.

Reason for the post is just to comment on the easy application process, the account was up and running and card received with PIN within a fortnight of posting the application.

Just a few heads up :

1. You cannot apply online you must phone for an application or visit a branch (only 2 in Glasgow and 1 in Edinburgh !!) I phoned and got application, they asked me a few basic questions, UK resident etc and also IF I WAS AN UNDISCHARGED BANKRUPT (which I am not!)

2. If applying by post you must send appropriate proof of identity and address, surprising easy as I sent original copies of a Credit Card statement and an Inland Revenue statement of account (there are many proofs that will suffice but you will need copies of certian docs like passports etc signed and suitably endorsed by an "acceptable person" which is fully explained)

3. The account has no fee and is fully supported by phone, online and text banking services , it really is very good so far !! You can pay cash and cheques in at any post office which is very handy also.

4. Co-op bank are in the news at the moment as they appear to be in trouble on their investment banking side and they have a black hole they need to fill, as I understand it they have a plan to rescue the bank and solve the problems, and their retail banking arm apparently operates well - so just a possible health warning there!

I was going to apply to Barclays for their basic account but they required me to attend a branch for a face to face meeting to complete paperwork - whilst this should have been no problem I did not really want the pressure of actually having to face someone in a branch and discuss my affairs and I much preferred a simple paper application and the post box!! (stupidly I also realised that one of my debtors was Barclaycard, so they may have refused me anyway, or later on taken money from the bank account to pay credit card or shut it down anyway!!)

So to sum up, I am very happy with the application process and the account facilities so far, and would recommend it to any other people looking to get started with a new basic bank account.(subject to the health warning concerning their current woes)