Virgin Money opens safe spaces across North East for abuse victims

The scheme is part of a wider rollout supported by Nationwide Building Society and raises the total number of safe spaces to 475 across Nationwide’s branch network.

Designed to offer immediate, confidential support, the safe spaces provide a secure environment where individuals can access help, contact specialist charities, and find refuge from abusive situations.

Safe spaces have now been introduced at Virgin Money branches in several North East locations, including Cramlington, Darlington, Hartlepool, Sunderland, Thornaby, and Washington.

Mandy Beech, director of retail services at Nationwide, said: "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."

Nationwide is also supporting Hestia’s World Cup campaign, Support Is A Team Sport, which encourages the public to recognise the signs of abuse and use the Bright Sky app, offering advice, resources, and access to nearby safe spaces.

In addition to in-person support, Nationwide offers a range of services for those experiencing abuse, including a partnership with Refuge for specialist emergency assistance and access to Shout, a free and confidential mental health text service.

For victim-survivors of financial abuse, the building society has introduced an in-app payment reference blocking feature to stop abusive or threatening messages through bank transfers.

Sue Harper, deputy director of domestic abuse and sexual violence prevention at Hestia, said: "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 are also stepping up.

TSB offers safe spaces as well as a flee fund, providing victims with up to £500 to cover essentials if they need to leave an abusive environment.

Economic abuse is frequently part of broader domestic abuse, involving control over finances, blocking access to money, or taking out loans in the victim’s name without consent.