Daredevil Greenock bank manager jumps to help the homeless

Kindhearted Will Ferguson who heads up Nationwide in West Blackhall Street took the plunge in aid of Shelter, a cause close to his heart.

The 24-year-old puts helping the local community at the very heart of his branch and is now up for another thriller challenge.

In the last year the team have helped local charities including Children in Poverty Inverclyde, Inverclyde Foodbank, the Ardgowan Hospice and many more.

Branch manager Will, who has risen through the ranks from behind the counter, said: "I think when you work in a town like Greenock you are aware of how many people out there are struggling.

"In our branch we look out for people and we help in whatever way we can.

"We see every day how difficult it is for people. Shelter is a charity the bank is supporting nationally. They help people all over the country and we know in Greenock there are many who need that help.

"Getting into financial difficulties and ending up homeless can happen to anyone, some people are only one pay cheque away from difficulties."

Before coming to the branch as manager Will specialised in working with their most vulnerable customers, those with disabilities and additional support needs.

He said: "It is very difficult for those who may struggle with literacy or have other difficulties to get the best out of banking. Sometimes that is why people get themselves into difficulties, if they can't get access to their statements and understand what is coming in and out their accounts."

Will sits on the national Nationwide charity board and decided to volunteer himself for the recent challenge, raising more than £1,200.

He added: "I had never done anything like this before, but it was amazing. I now want to jump from higher up.

"There is another charity challenge in October, the death drop, it is a bungee jump into the dark. Everyone is now calling me psycho Will now! "

The local branch has raised around £12,000 for charity on top of other donations like food and toys.

Most recently the local West Blackhall Street branch secured nearly £10,000 for Children in Poverty Inverclyde to send children on holiday with their families.