Nationwide Expands Safe Spaces to 42 Virgin Money Branches for Domestic Abuse Support

Nationwide Building Society has expanded its network of Safe Spaces for individuals affected by domestic abuse, now including dozens of Virgin Money branches following the acquisition earlier this year. These private, confidential areas within branches provide a secure environment where victims can seek support, contact specialist charities, and find temporary safety from their abuser.

Expansion of Safe Spaces

Virgin Money, officially absorbed by Nationwide in April 2026, now offers Safe Spaces across 42 of its locations. This addition brings the total number of Safe Spaces within Nationwide's branch network to 475. The initiative is part of Nationwide's ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable customers.

Support During the FIFA World Cup

Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nationwide is backing domestic abuse charity Hestia's Support Is A Team Sport campaign. The campaign encourages people to recognize signs of abuse and download the Bright Sky app, which provides advice and access to local and national support services. The app also helps users locate the nearest Nationwide or Virgin Money Safe Space and offers guidance on safely supporting others.

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Additional Support Services

Nationwide provides a comprehensive support package for abuse victims, including a partnership with domestic abuse charity Refuge for specialist advice and emergency help. Customers can also access the free, confidential mental health text service Shout. For victims of financial and economic abuse, Nationwide has introduced an in-app payment reference blocking feature, allowing victim-survivors to block threatening or coercive messages accompanying bank transfers.

Statements from Nationwide and Hestia

Mandy Beech, director of retail services at Nationwide, stated: “We urge anyone experiencing abuse to reach out – our in-branch safe spaces are here to support you. We know that a bank or building society might not be the most obvious or conventional place to turn in a moment of crisis, but through our charity partners and the tools we have built, there are real, practical things we can do to help people get the support they need. Colleagues across more than 600 branches have participated in our domestic abuse awareness training because no one should face this alone.”

Sue Harper, deputy director of domestic abuse and sexual violence prevention at Hestia, commented: “While football does not cause abuse, we know that existing abusive behaviour often intensifies on match days. Heightened emotions and increased alcohol consumption can escalate harm, leaving victim-survivors dreading match days and feeling unsafe in their own homes. This summer, we all have a role to play. We can help people feel less alone and ensure they get the support they need.”

Other Financial Institutions Offering Support

Nationwide is not alone in providing support for domestic abuse victims. TSB also offers Safe Spaces and a flee fund that grants up to £500 for essentials to help victims leave abusive relationships. Economic abuse often accompanies other forms of domestic abuse, involving control over finances, preventing employment, or unauthorized use of the victim's money or credit.