To be honest yes, they are aimed at people who "can't" get bank accounts and charge you dearly for it.
Free options if you have no decent credit ratings:
Nationwide Basic
Co-op cashminder (not sure if it has online banking)
Free Business Accounts
Santander Business banking with optional free Business Reserve account.
Alliance & Leicester Business.
There are probably more...you could maybe check other debt forums or moneysavingexpert etc.
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