The move comes as data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that approximately 2.4 million adults in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse last year, with about one in five adults (10.4 million) experiencing this type of abuse since the age of 16.

Following a successful pilot in 20 branches in Wales, Nationwide plans to roll out its Safe Space initiative nationally, offering discreet support for anyone facing domestic abuse, not just Nationwide customers. The initiative gives people a suitable environment for anyone needing to make calls to third-party experts and helplines.

Nationwide branch colleagues will also receive specialised training to help support those experiencing domestic abuse. This includes, helping them manage their finances, providing access to a specialist support team and other resources.

Nationwide has also launched an internal policy outlining the resources available to colleagues experiencing domestic abuse. The policy includes access to mental health, legal and financial support services. It also gives the employee an opportunity to change their working arrangements and relocate if required.

Nationwide will introduce specialised training for all people managers, awareness sessions for all employees, and a toolkit to advise them on how to support employees experiencing domestic abuse.

In addition, a dedicated team of trained employees known as “Domestic Abuse Allies” will be available, offering support and understanding to anyone impacted by domestic abuse.

Nationwide: ‘A positive commitment’

Mandy Beech, director of retail services, said: “We are proud to actively take a stand against domestic abuse and protect our customers and colleagues who may be impacted by this. We’re pleased that we can now provide a safe space in our branches and support for customers who are experiencing abuse. At Nationwide, we want to support for our colleagues experiencing domestic abuse. We hope more employers will introduce these policies and give much-needed support to those who need it.”

Kate Rowland, training manager at Swindon Domestic Abuse Support Service (SDASS) said: “It is wonderful to see organisations such as Nationwide making such a positive commitment to support its staff and members who are going through abuse or are who still experiencing the impact of past abuse.

“SDASS has delivered the first round of training and awareness raising sessions for key personnel, with more to come, and we hope that the increased awareness among colleagues will support people to reach out and benefit from the excellent support Nationwide can offer, as well as signposting to specialist support services.”