The UK Treasury has announced a pilot programme, starting January 2026, that will allow people experiencing homelessness to open bank accounts without a fixed address at Lloyds, NatWest, Barclays, Nationwide, and Santander. The initiative is part of a broader financial inclusion strategy, aiming to improve access to payroll payments, cash withdrawals, and digital payment methods for vulnerable groups. The charity Shelter will partner with the banks, enabling staff to verify identities and support prospective customers through the application process. (The Guardian)
The scheme removes the requirement for a fixed address, historically a significant barrier for many without permanent accommodation. HSBC’s prior efforts in this area show that such models are feasible; since 2019, HSBC has reportedly opened 7,000 accounts for people facing homelessness.
Key features of the financial inclusion strategy include:
- Access to basic banking services for those without a permanent address
- New credit scoring approaches for victims of domestic abuse, developed in partnership with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion
- Support for employer-based payroll savings schemes
- Enhancement of financial education within the national curriculum
In addition to supporting banking access, the initiative is designed to help survivors of domestic abuse rebuild their credit scores. Credit reference agencies are collaborating to develop new models for rescoring and supporting people whose credit records have been harmed by abuse.
| Focus Area | Details | Partners |
|---|---|---|
| Bank Account Access | No address required; Shelter verifies identities | Lloyds, NatWest, Barclays, Nationwide, Santander, Shelter |
| Credit Repair | New credit scoring for abuse victims | Experian, Equifax, TransUnion |
| Financial Inclusion | Payroll savings, school education programmes | Government, employers, schools |
According to government figures, over 11.5 million people in the UK have less than £100 in savings. The new strategy seeks to address exclusion and vulnerability through targeted interventions. Mel Stride, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, stated: “This plan is about opening doors – helping people experiencing homelessness into work, helping survivors of abuse rebuild their credit and helping families save for a rainy day. No one should be locked out of the chance to build a better future. Our strategy gives people the tools to get on and boosts the economy by supporting more people back into work.”
The pilot will be reviewed after six months to assess its effectiveness before any wider implementation. For more information on financial inclusion and secure payment methods for UK players, see our resources on safe online casinos, verifying your account, common issues with casino withdrawals, withdrawal methods, and e-wallets for UK betting.
