I'm not an expert in finances, as Iv'e never really had a lot of cash in the bank, or any where else for that matter,
I do have modest savings and could not afford to lose them,as a total loss to me would be just as serious as a toal loss to someone with several thousands invested,
I think mischeif is right with his answer,
at the moment some of my savings are with the post office, which i would assume to be safe,I have some in premium bonds, which I would also expect to be safe,
i have also a small amount with halifax, wich i may convert to premium bonds, I know they do not gain interest but the peace of mind is priceless,
and you never know, ernie might smile on you, :-)