Hi there! Just thought I’d let you know what’s just happened. Still no joy with Barclays (my main bank) after waiting since the scheme opened, to even speak to someone. However – my husband just called HSBC.
I have a First Direct account with them (that I haven’t yet used) and they said as it’s part of the HSBC group, I could apply through the website using my first direct account. I went on to the HSBC account and completed the application in about 10 minutes.
Obviously I haven’t had it accepted yet, nor any money – I just wanted to let you know in case this isn’t a commonly known work-around for First Direct customers. Thanks and wish me luck! 🙂