Nationwide Building Society has confirmed it is reviewing plans to change its branch services, with key dates now scheduled. The building society recently expanded its dementia clinics trial, running sessions at 12 Virgin Money branches across Northern England and Scotland.
The free, confidential clinics offer 45-minute meetings with specialist Admiral Nurses from Dementia UK. Anyone can attend to discuss concerns such as spotting early symptoms or caring for someone with dementia.
Trial progress and feedback
A Nationwide spokesperson said: "The trial is still ongoing, but clinics have now taken place in all 12 Virgin Money pilot branches across Northern England and Scotland. We've seen positive uptake and encouraging feedback from both those attending the clinics and branch colleagues who host them."
When Nationwide first announced the trial in April 2026, it confirmed dates for English branches running through May and June, including Sheffield, Dewsbury, Washington, Castleford, Stockton High Street, and South Shields Fowler Street. Scottish dates were not announced at that time.
Confirming the Scottish sessions have now happened, the spokesperson said: "The Scottish trial has taken place - with clinics running in branches including Glenrothes, Hamilton, Livingston, Clydebank, Inverurie and Baillieston. Following a positive response, further clinic dates are continuing to be scheduled as part of the ongoing evaluation of the pilot."
Topics covered at clinics
Nationwide said people ask about a wide range of topics at these appointments, depending on their personal situation. Common topics include spotting symptoms and getting a diagnosis, practical advice on daily caregiving, emotional support for families and carers, and how to plan ahead, including financial and legal guidance.
The spokesperson added: "People also use the clinics to discuss complex situations they may be facing, understand what support services are available locally and get advice following a bereavement. Admiral Nurses take the time to understand each family's circumstances and provide tailored advice and support."
Expansion and community impact
Dementia clinics are currently available at over 250 Nationwide branches across the UK, with more than 8,700 appointments booked since the scheme launched in 2024. Nationwide said: "We continually review the programme to ensure the clinics are reaching the communities where they are needed most."
The group also said: "We will continue to assess demand and opportunities for further expansion as part of our partnership with Dementia UK."
Explaining the strategy, the spokesperson said: "Our dementia clinics are part of Nationwide's Fairer Futures social impact strategy and reflect our belief that branches can play an important role in connecting people with expert support in their communities. Through our partnership with Dementia UK, we're helping make specialist advice more accessible by providing a familiar, local and free-to-use setting for people affected by dementia."
The update follows research from Nationwide showing that fewer than 10 per cent of adults with living parents have discussed how finances should be managed if a family member develops dementia. Almost a quarter said they would not know where to start, and more than four in 10 admitted their household would not be financially prepared.
Charlotte Kensett, director of Social Impact at Nationwide, said: "Too often, families only start thinking about finances when dementia has already reached a crisis point. Having conversations and putting plans in place earlier can help ensure a person's wishes are understood, reduce uncertainty for loved ones and make managing the challenges ahead that little bit easier."
Clinics can be booked on the Dementia UK website.
