NatWest to open ‘Safe Space’ branches to abuse victims

Safe Spaces, launched by domestic abuse charity Hestia as part of the UK Says No More campaign, are designated locations which anyone experiencing domestic abuse can use. Upon asking a member of staff to use their safe space, people will be able to use a private room to help them deal with the issue. They can have access to a phone if they need one, and the chance to discreetly contact family, friends or specialist support.

The ‘UK Says No More’ is raising awareness against domestic abuse and sexual violence in the UK. The campaign provides open-source tools and resources for individuals and organisations to take action and get involved in making a difference.

Specialist training on Safe Spaces and domestic abuse awareness has been carried out by employees across [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 intervention, increasing safety and ensuring 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. It has also provided essentials such as food and cots, winter shoes and bus fares.

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. 1 in 5 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. Staff across over 350 branches have participated in our domestic abuse training, and we hope that other organisations will follow their lead.”

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

Report their circumstances using our secure online form
Conduct secure confidential conversations with our dedicated experts at a safe time for them
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