Is it possible to open a bank account without physically going into a bank?

[neuroticmumof3]

My DS (20) has MH problems and has been unable to leave the house or speak to anyone on the phone since January. He tried to open a NatWest account online but it said he'd have to go into the branch. I went into the branch on his behalf (I bank there) and they were most unhelpful. Said every applicant has to physically present themselves to the bank to check their identity. I said didn't they deal with people who were housebound due to disability and he said no not really. DS needs a bank account as sadly he's dropped out of uni due to MH problems and needs to claim benefits as he has no income and I can't afford to support him.

Anyone have any ideas of know of any banks who are more disability friendly?

Well, First Direct don't have actual branches, so they might be of more help

yes, i opened a Smile account online, because they're an online bbank!

Depends if he's willing to post ID off; on the natwest online application there's a list of ID he can post back along with the application form and it can be opened remotely, the branch staff use a different system so wouldn't necessarily be aware of the other options as generally if someone starts the application online they have done it precisely so they don't have to go into a bank :)

Does he have a student account somewhere? The bank should be able to convert that to a normal current account for him. Personally I opened an account with Barclays without needing to provide any ID (all done electronically) however it involved asking me questions about things on my credit file eg when was my credit card opened. If he doesn't have anything like this, they may need ID there also.