Natwest is allowing flood victims to defer mortgage and loan repayments for up to three months to help them get back on track.

Customers who bank with Natwest can close savings accounts early without a penalty if they need to get their hands on cash quickly to deal with damage.

The bank is also offering repayment holidays, interest rate reductions, emergency loans and overdraft facilities to business owners affected by the flooding.

Its insurance teams have sent out staff in branded vehicles to help people in affected areas, particularly vulnerable customers. 

Chief executive Alison Rose says: “We are helping customers and business owners affected by the recent flooding by providing additional credit or access to finance where needed, so they can concentrate on getting their homes or businesses back to normal. 

“We would urge affected customers to get in touch with us, either by phone or in a branch, to discuss how we can help.”