Looking for a good account, with little ID

MadSage

A few months ago, I opened a Sainsburys Internet Saver. It took a couple of weeks to verify me electronically and set up because of high demand, but no problems. I already have accounts with a couple of banks.

My girlfriend wanted to start saving too, but doesn't have much to save, despite having 1-1.3K in a safe, mainly for bills. She only has an old Abbey account which her aunt set up, with a poor interest rate, and doesn't trust herself to save there. So I suggested a Sainsburys Internet Saver. The idea being, she gives me the money, and I transfer it for her, and she can't touch it. When bills are nearly due, I would transfer the money back. I manage her money anyway.

So we started the application process. We didn't put any money in the account, because I suspected there could be problems verifying her ID, and I was right. Months have gone by, two forms of identification have got lost, and we've given up with Sainsburys. I know they should follow protocols, but surely all banks aren't like them?

They seem extremely picky. My girlfriend moved to her current address at the end of March. Before that, she lived with her Aunt. She doesn't drive and doesn't have a passport. I think the only bills she has now (because Sainsburys or mr postman lost her tenancy agreement and tv license) are water and council tax bills (landlord pays the electric).

So my question is, how can she open a savings account with a decent interest rate easily? What is her best option? Remember it has to be easy access for bills.


Adrian