In Scotland, almost 165,000 people don’t have access to a bank accounts. That makes basic everyday tasks almost impossible. Without a bank account, wages have nowhere to be sent or payments for any benefits to be received.  Everyday bills are also more expensive and accessing affordable credit is blocked because banks and lenders rely on payments going in and out of an agreed account.  

The ultimate form of financial exclusion is not having access to a bank account. And unfortunately, some people are impacted more than others.  

Following recent research into the issue, we’ve identified the following groups of people who are particularly affected including ex-prisoners, refugees, those experiencing homelessness, victim survivors of domestic abuse and undischarged bankrupts.

That’s why we’re raising awareness of a special type of account through our latest campaign, Banking on the basics. A Basic Bank Account is open to anyone. As part of our campaign, we want to make these accounts more accessible so that anyone can apply and be included in our society.