Problems opening bank account for DS (20) with MH problems

[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 or know of any banks who are more disability friendly?

first direct doesnt have any branches so maybe they would be able to open the account online for him.

Pretty sure as things stand no bank will open an account without seeing you DS + his id (first direct use hsbc for this i think).

You need to be able to establish legally your right to act on your son's behalf. this is a good website to start from www.rethink.org/living_with_mental_illness/money_debt_benefits/how_to_deal_with_debt/looking_after_someone_elses_finances/looking_after_someon.html

Seconding Lloyds. Opened account for DS's Direct Payments with them. They are very good.