macky,
If you are really really struggling and need to get a bank account urgently the take a look here:-
http://www.hsbc.co.uk/1/2/personal/c...ounts/passport
Yes, I know it's expensive at £8 per month but it may be OK for a short-time solution when all else fails. At least you get a fully functioning debit card.
One he starts to get statements at the address he may use those to open a cheaper A/C or even downgrade the HSBC A/C
If you decide to go for it let us know some feedback, pro's and con's etc
Good luck and best wishes