Jo,

"However sometimes through ill health and other cir$%^&tances we need the banks to be more understanding instead of blasting us with £38 charges for a £5 dd"

Banks are not any type of social service or insurance policy for when times are tough - nor should they be. Govt is the one to provide a safety net for people who can't earn, not the commercial banks, never, it's not what they are for. Either the govt isn't providing enough or you are spending too much - I can't and don't make any judgement either way in your case.

Recent ruling on banks was reasonable - you know (or should) the rules of engagement when you get into a contract with a bank - if you don't like the rules don't sign up. Use cash then you are in control of your own spending.

"As a victim to the tune of nearly £3000 in fees since Jan 2006 "

If you really have racked up £3000 of charges then I'm sorry for you but you have acted ignorantly (no offence intended) but you are only a "victim" of your own unwise actions.

On charges - Banks will charge as much as they can get away with (as they should they are in business to maximise profits) - it is kick back by customers, politician, regulators and competition that causes reductions - there is no acceptable right level of charges as you imply, just business.