Bank launches ‘Safe Space’ for abuse victims
Service now available for those seeking help
A bank has introduced a ‘Safe Space’ for domestic abuse victims to seek advice.
The HSBC branch in Week Street, Maidstone, will offer a safe haven for victims in partnership with domestic abuse charity Hestia.
Domestic abuse makes up over 20% of all reported crime across Kent – the third highest figure in the UK, with nearly 40,000 cases recorded in the height of the pandemic.
Those experiencing abuse can now seek specialist support and advice in the branch.
The company hopes it will allow people to access support services in a normal, discreet setting without fear.
Safe Spaces was launched by Hestia, in response to the challenges faced by victims of domestic abuse during the Covid lockdown and their inability to access help.
The initiative was originally launched in pharmacies.
Sarah Green is a local director at HSBC and has been a part of the company for 26 years.
The 42-year-old says she has dealt with many cases of domestic abuse in the past.
“During my career, I have had people who have found when sharing something quite private like money, can then feel that they can share other things as well.
“We have supported many people over the years, but now we have a more formalised way of doing it - rather than us just googling, we now have all the resources.”
Specialist training has been delivered to more than 4,000 employees across the bank’s UK’s branches.
Staff don’t ask for any personal details, so the process is completely anonymous and confidential.
Sarah said: “It’s not our place to question anything, and it is a huge step for them walking in the door.
“We have a room upstairs, which has a telephone, tissues, children’s toys and the resources for them to contact whoever they need - whether that be a loved one, charity, or police.
“The idea of having a Safe Space in banks is due to if you are in a abusive relationship it’s quite hard to go out.
“Whereas actually, going to the bank wouldn’t look suspicious.”
‘It’s not our place to question anything and it’s a huge step for them’