Relief at last for savers?

British savers have taken some blows over recent months, with dramatic interest rate reductions hitting their nest eggs hard. Since November of last year, the Bank of England has lowered the base rate from five per cent to its current level of 0.5 per cent - with numerous studies indicating that savers have felt the full brunt of this.A new survey by Scottish Widows has now indicated that fewer people are choosing to put money away - although choice may have little to do with it. The company revealed that 85 per cent of people say they do not have anything to save, up from 50 per cent in 2008.The rising cost of living was found to be a major factor in this, with 75 per cent believing it to be a barrier. However, the burden of debt also appears to be playing a part, with 42 per cent of respondents citing this as the problem that is preventing them from putting money away.But savings expert at Scottish Widows Anne Young was keen to emphasise the importance of having a savings account. "While paying off debts should still be a priority, in climates like these it is important to save even a small amount now to get into a saving habit and build up some capital," she said.So what options does someone looking for the best savings rates currently have? Well, this week has seen a number of lenders announce new deals for such customers.Santander revealed that through Abbey, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley it is offering rates of up to 4.15 per cent on fixed rate savings bonds. While this particular offer applies only to high sums, those locking in for two years can get a gross rate of at least 3.5 per cent on smaller amounts.And for those who would prefer to be able to access their money sooner, Principality Building Society has launched a savings account offering penalty-free withdrawals if 30 days' notice is given.It carries a rate of 2.9 per cent and marketing director James Wright described it as the "perfect balance" between interest rates and accessibility. "With interest rates so low at the moment, savers are looking for the best return on their cash, but they don't always want to tie up their money in fixed-term accounts that traditionally pay the best rates," he explained.It could be, therefore, that savers are truly beginning to see some light at the end of the tu