Hestia, a domestic violence charity, established Safe Spaces as a part of the UK Says No More campaign. These are places set aside for the use of victims of domestic abuse. People can utilize a private room to assist them cope with the problem after asking a staff member to use their safe space. If necessary, individuals can use a phone to make discreet calls to friends, relatives, or professional support.

The "UK Says No More" campaign aims to increase public awareness of sexual and domestic violence in the country. The campaign offers organizations and individuals free and open-source tools and resources to help them get active in changing the world.

Every [NatWest] branch's staff has received specialized training on Safe Spaces and awareness of domestic abuse.

In conjunction with SafeLives, the NatWest Group donated an additional £1 million to The Circle Fund, bringing their total commitment to £2 million. The Fund has provided crisis intervention support to frontline agencies, enhancing safety and guaranteeing that survivors receive the appropriate care at the appropriate time. For instance, Ring doorbell systems and safe places have been made possible by it. In addition, it has supplied necessities like food, sleeping bags, winter footwear, and bus passes.

Raghu Narula, MD of NatWest Group's Retail Banking Division's Customer Engagement and Distribution, stated:

"We are aware that domestic and financial abuse has impacted individuals from various backgrounds and groups in the United Kingdom. Being a part of the communities we support, we are aware of the critical role we can play in giving people who may be feeling genuinely alone access to skilled specialists and helpful support."

"We are implementing these areas throughout most of our physical branch network to provide private, in-person assistance, and we will keep exploring novel approaches to provide access and support to anyone who is facing financial or domestic abuse."

The CEO of Hestia, Patrick Ryan, stated:

For victims of domestic abuse, it is essential to have a secure location to go for assistance. In England and Wales, one in five persons will at some point in their lives experience domestic abuse. Our Safe Spaces are now available at common locations like banks and pharmacies, giving victims of domestic abuse the opportunity to contact loved ones or seek professional assistance.

"We are thrilled that NatWest, Ulster Bank, and Royal Bank of Scotland have partnered with us to ensure that more victims can safely access support. It is wonderful to see more Safe Spaces on our high streets." Our domestic violence training has been completed by employees from over 350 branches, and we hope that other organizations will take note.

The NatWest Group is already making efforts to safeguard its most vulnerable consumers, and they are able to:

Report their situation by filling out our safe online form.
Have private, secure discussions with our committed specialists at a time that is convenient for them.
Access current support services, such as mobile app and online banking, and create a new, safe account in their name alone.