Nationwide Building Society has partnered with Refuge, the UK’s largest specialist domestic abuse charity, to offer enhanced support for customers affected by domestic abuse.
The new partnership allows Nationwide’s Specialist Support Team to refer survivors directly to Refuge, which provides accommodation, expert guidance, and assistance with rebuilding financial and emotional stability.
This move builds on the Society’s existing services, which include Safe Spaces in more than 400 branches across the UK. These private rooms allow survivors to make calls or seek help discreetly.
Andrew Ball, head of supplier management at Nationwide, said: “With one in four women experiencing some form of economic or domestic abuse, it is vital that we have support available for customers when they need it the most.
“That is why I’m delighted to commence a partnership with Refuge, as they are experts in this field.”
Emma Pickering, head of technology-facilitated abuse and economic empowerment at Refuge, said: “One in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime, and cases are continuing to grow in both quantity and complexity.
“Thanks to Nationwide Building Society, Refuge will be able to expand its support for survivors of abuse.
“Our partnership has never been more needed. With Nationwide’s support, Refuge’s expert team will empower survivors with practical advice and emotional support, helping them to rebuild their lives.”
Nationwide and Refuge have also joined the campaign led by Money Wellness calling on the Government to make the Individual Insolvency Register private.
Current regulations require survivors of abuse to pay £308 for a protection order to hide their address – something many cannot afford due to financial control by perpetrators.
Both organisations argue that making this register private is essential for safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
Nationwide reports a sharp rise in customers needing domestic abuse support, with referrals to its Specialist Support Team now reaching around 30 a month – triple the figure seen in 2022.
The average age of those receiving support is 45. All branch staff have been trained by Hestia to recognise signs of abuse and offer appropriate guidance.
