Banking

This section contains information and guidance for our customers on products and services that should make managing your finances much easier.

Basic Bank Accounts

Not having a bank account can mean you pay more for some utilities e.g. energy bills may cost up to £250 a year more. Some services, like the internet at home, may not be available at all without a bank account.

Basic bank accounts are for people with poor credit who can't get standard bank accounts. As long as you have ID, you should be able to open a basic bank account with a debit card, and the ability to pay direct debits such as your rent payments.

If you would like to receive a leaflet on Basic Bank Accounts by the Money Advice Service, then visit their website by clicking here.

Credit Unions

Another option is to open an account at your local credit union.

• Credit unions are financial organisations owned and controlled by their members
• They welcome new, irregular savers and people with poor credit histories
• They can advise you about money and help you with responsible saving and lending
• They are regulated in the same way as banks and have insurance policies to protect against fraud
• Credit union savings are protected in the same way as banks. irwell valley homes works in partnership with a number of credit unions.

Click here for your local credit union.