The most important thing you can do to manage your money is to set up a bank account.  If you have difficulties obtaining a current account due to poor credit history or lack of suitable identification then a basic bank account might be more suitable.

Basic bank accounts offer many of the same facilities as a current account but do not have overdrafts and are easier to obtain if you have a poor credit history.  Banks will often accept your tenancy agreement as a form of I.D for a basic bank account.

UK banks which offer basic bank accounts

You can find out more about the basic bank accounts offered by these banks by visiting the Financial Services Authority website.

Most of the banks which offer basic accounts have branches in Newcastle.  If you’re unsure where your nearest bank is, please ask at your local housing office.