I have one that goes with my Co-Op Cashminder account, which is a basic bank account. I have the account as I'm a bad credit risk, but as Mungbeanz says, anyone can get a basic account. There is no minimum balance and the account is a handy place to shove any spare funds that you may want quick access to.
I've used my Electron in European cash machines with no problem, although they can carry extra charges. Again, this is something you need to check with the issuing bank.