NatWest opens “safe space” branches for abuse victims

Safe Spaces, created by domestic violence charity Hestia as part of the UK’s Says No More campaign, are designated spaces that anyone experiencing domestic violence can use. If an employee is asked to use their safe area, employees will have a private space to help them deal with the issue. You will have access to a telephone if necessary and the opportunity to discreetly contact family, friends or professional support.

UK Says No More raises awareness against domestic violence and sexual violence in the UK. The campaign provides individuals and organizations with open source tools and resources to take action and make a difference.

Staff across the board have provided specialist training on safe spaces and domestic violence awareness [NatWest] Branches.

This work follows NatWest Group’s further donation of £1m to The Circle Fund [totalling £2m] in partnership with SafeLives. The Fund has supported frontline services with crisis interventions, increased security and ensured survivors are supported in the right way at the right time. For example, it has been used to provide secure locations and Ring doorbell systems. Essential items such as food and cots, winter shoes and bus tickets were also provided.

Raghu Narula, MD of Customer Engagement and Distribution, Retail Banking at NatWest Group, said:

“We know that domestic and economic abuse affects people from all walks of life and communities across the UK. As part of the communities we serve, we know we can play an important role in providing practical support and access to trained professionals for a truly isolating experience.”

“We are rolling out these spaces across most of our physical branch networks to provide discreet, face-to-face support, and we will continue to explore new ways to provide access and support to anyone affected by economic and domestic abuse.”

Patrick Ryan, CEO of Hestia, said:

“It is vital for victims of domestic violence to have a safe place to seek support. One in five people in England and Wales experience domestic violence during their lifetime. By bringing our Safe Spaces into everyday places such as banks and pharmacies, this means anyone experiencing domestic violence has the opportunity to access professional help and advice or to call a loved one.

“It’s fantastic to see more safe spaces on our high streets – and we’re pleased that NatWest, Ulster Bank and Royal Bank of Scotland are working with us to ensure more victims can access support safely.” Staff number over 350 Branches have taken part in our domestic violence training and we hope other organizations will follow their lead.”

NatWest Group is already working to ensure vulnerable customers are protected and can:

Report your circumstances using our secure online form
Have secure, confidential conversations with our dedicated experts at a time that is safe for you
Access existing support services, including online banking and mobile app access, as well as the ability to open a new secure account in their sole name