NatWest Group will begin offering “Safe Spaces” for people experiencing economic and domestic abuse in hundreds of its bank branches.
The high street banking group will launch its service in more than 260 branches, from this week.
Safe Spaces, a scheme launched by domestic abuse charity Hestia as part of the UK Says No More campaign, as designated locations which anyone experiencing domestic abuse can use.
People can ask a member of staff in the branch to use their safe space and use a private room to deal with the issue.
They can get access to a phone if needed and the Safe Space can provide a chance to discreetly contact family, friends or specialist support.
To find the nearest Safe Space, people should visit: uksaysnomore.org/safespaces.
People can ask a member of staff in the branch to use their safe space
PA
Specialist training on Safe Spaces and domestic abuse awareness has been carried out by employees across NatWest branches.
Raghu Narula, MD of Customer Engagement and Distribution, Retail Banking at NatWest Group said: “We know that people from all walks of life across communities in the UK have been affected by domestic and economic abuse.
“As part of the communities we serve, we know we can play an important role in providing practical support and access to trained specialists for what can be a truly isolating experience.
“We’re rolling these spaces out across the majority of our physical branch network to offer discreet face-to-face support, and we will continue to look at new ways to offer access and help for anyone experiencing economic and domestic abuse.”
Patrick Ryan, Chief Executive at Hestia, said: “Having a safe place to seek support is vital for victims of domestic abuse.
“One in five people in England and Wales will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.
“By bringing our Safe Spaces to everyday places like banks and pharmacies, it means that anyone experiencing domestic abuse has the chance to access specialist help and advice, or to call a loved one.
“It is fantastic to see more Safe Spaces on our high streets – and we are delighted that NatWest, Ulster Bank and Royal Bank of Scotland has partnered with us to ensure that more victims can safely access support.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Nationwide Building Society has said it will offer safe spaces at more than 400 UK branches
NATIONWIDE BUILDING SOCIETY
“Staff across over 350 branches have participated in our domestic abuse training, and we hope that other organisations will follow their lead.”
Nationwide Building Society said in January that it would offer safe spaces to people experiencing domestic abuse at more than 400 of its branches in the UK.
HSBC UK, which joined Hestia’s safe spaces scheme in April 2022, recently said the bank recorded an increase in their use during the winter.
TSB joined the scheme in May 2021 and also offers an emergency flee fund.
The bank will give between £50 to £500, depending on individual needs, to support domestic abuse survivors.
