the richest man in atherstone

Why is it so difficult opening a Savings Account for children? One of my goals for 2007 is to set up a savings plan for my kids and because they had some money given to them at Xmas, I thought it would be an ideal opportunity to change their accounts to something a bit more interest-generous. I identified the Save4it account offered by Halifax Building Society as a good option. Not only does it have a good interest rate but the kids get a free money box.

In short I wish I'd never have bothered.

I thought I'd do it over the phone, as I don't have time to visit the branch - bank's opening hours seem to be restricted so that only the unemployed can visit them and the unemployed shouldn't have any money After assurances that I wouldn't have to visit their premises, I went through a long-winded process to open the accounts. Anyway, at the end of the phone call, I was told that I would receive some documentation to sign, then I had to show my I.D and the kid's birth certificates at the branch contrary to what I'd been told originally. Grudgingly I agreed - I wasn't in the mood for an argument.

The next Saturday, I went into town armed with loads of I.D. My passport has expired and my driving licence still has my old address on it so I wanted to be sure I had enough ammunition to prove I was who I said I was. I arrived outside the Halifax at 12:05. Guess what time the bank closed? You got it - midday. So it was a completely wasted journey.

The Saturday after, I got up extra early and visited the Halifax again only to be told, I couldn't see an advisor without an appointment, even though when I entered the building, three advisors were stood around laughing and joking. After much persuasive diplomacy, they finally agreed to finish the opening of my account. I stood as an advisor typed my details into the computer, then she asked for some I.D. I removed my wad of I.D documents from my bag and showed them to her. She told me none of them were acceptable. By this time I'd had enough. I collected my stuff and walked out.

The ironic thing is that I opened an IceSave savings account for myself around two months ago with no bother whatsoever. I filled in an online form and the account was opened. Just like that.

I'd never used the Halifax before now but rest-assured no matter how good their products are, after experiencing their customer service I don't think I'll ever be using them. Meanwhile, I'm on the look out for a replacement Children's Savings account as I send off for a new passport and driving licence...