These suggestions are not necessarily a good idea. I am putting up this page as an experiment. These products may not be right for you as an individual. I do NOT offer individual financial advice.

I have been asked about products that may be available to those with credit records that are less than unblemished. I pass on these suggestions, but with this health warning:

1. Products for those with poor credit records tend to offer worse terms than mainline products.
    
2. There are poor credit records and there are ***POOR*** credit records. Acceptance is not automatic.
    
3. If you apply for lots of financial products, this may show up on your credit record, lowering your credit rating even further.
    
4. I have not checked out these products - that is up to you.
    
5. Please please understand that this is not individual advice. These products may not be right for you and I DO NOT offer individual advice. However, I welcome feedback about the products themselves. Click here.

All the main banks offer so called 'basic bank accounts'.

Shop around, but don't apply for loads or it might look odd on your credit record. There are more, but here are some examples.

• Abbey National Instant Plus account offers a current account with a Visa debit card but no cheque book
   
• Bank of Scotland Easy Cash account includes a debit card
   
• Halifax - cheque book and cash card.

Usually you can have standing orders, direct debits, and a cash card. NatWest and the three above will give you a debit card.

You may be able to source your needs through a broker. Products include

• UK and offshore bank accounts and credit cards
   
• Secured loans and mortgages
   
• Unsecured loans
   
• Contract vehicle hire
   
• Car finance.

If you want financevictims to find you a broker, get in touch. But DO NOT TAKE ON COMMITMENTS YOU CANNOT MEET.

Remember our first rule - IF YOU'RE IN A FINANCIAL HOLE, STOP DIGGING.

It is better to pull your horns in than to bury your head in the sand.

If you have a poor credit record, read the warning first.

It is VERY IMPORTANT!

Don't take on commitments you can't handle.