Victims of domestic abuse can now access a Safe Space in 510 HSBC branches across the UK to seek specialist support and advice, as the bank becomes the latest to sign up to the scheme.
Launched by the domestic abuse charity Hestia and its ‘UK says no more’ campaign, the Safe Spaces scheme is supported by funding raised by People’s Postcode Lottery.
Victims can use a private room to make telephone calls, speak to one of the bank’s 4,000 specially-trained staff and contact the local police force if necessary. The support is available to both HSBC customers and members of the public.
One in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetimes. HSBC UK is the latest High Street bank to offer the service after TSB started offering Safe Spaces in May 2021. Boots, Morrisons, Superdrug, Well pharmacies and independent pharmacies across the UK are also signed up to the scheme.
Jerry (name changed to protect identity), 60, was the first person to use the Safe Space at a HSBC branch after hearing about the scheme on the radio. He was officially homeless having fled an abusive relationship. He said: “I came into HSBC's branch in somewhat of a panic after leaving a violent relationship which I had endured for nearly three years. Learning about the initiative seemed to be some sort of fate.
Jerry was also able to open a bank account through HSBC UK’s No Fixed Address scheme which supports people experiencing housing issues. Available in 184 branches, individuals are referred by charity representatives and can use the address of the charity to open the account. HSBC has so far opened accounts for around 100 men and women referred by domestic abuse charities.
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