Nationwide has been named the best bank in the UK by Forbes, despite operating as a building society. The annual list ranked 410 financial institutions worldwide based on customer satisfaction, service, trustworthiness, digital services, and financial advice quality.
In the UK, 12 companies made the list, with Nationwide leading ahead of first direct, Monzo, Aldermore Group, Starling, and Revolut. Forbes noted that digital banks are reshaping the industry, but Nationwide's commitment to keeping branches open, its Helping Hand mortgage deal, and community services set it apart.
Dame Debbie Crosbie, Nationwide's chief executive, said: 'We're incredibly proud Forbes has recognised Nationwide as the UK's top-rated banking services provider, reflecting the strength of our mutual model. We have been number one for customer satisfaction for 14 years and last year we were top for current account switching, while returning a record £2.8bn in value to our members.'
Other UK banks listed from seventh to 12th were Paragon Bank, Standard Chartered, Bank of Ireland, Atom Bank, and Barclays. Separately, Nationwide is trialling expanded access to dementia clinics, offering free appointments with Admiral Nurses in more Virgin Money branches in northern England and Scotland, in partnership with Dementia UK. Over 5,700 appointments have been booked since 2024, with non-customers also eligible.
