DOMESTIC abuse survivors can access a “safe space” at their Southend TSB branch, where they will receive specialist support.

TSB said the initiative – which is being rolled out at nearly 300 TSB branches overall – will enable more people to find help on their high street, particularly as lockdown restrictions ease across the UK.

Domestic abuse prevention charity Hestia partnered with the bank and police forces to roll out the scheme, which is available at TSB on London Road in Southend.

It was initially developed during the coronavirus pandemic in response to people suffering domestic abuse after being trapped at home with their abusers.

Hestia has seen domestic abuse cases surge in the past year.

Sue Harper, head of domestic abuse prevention at Hestia, said: “During the pandemic, self-isolation has given abusers a new method of control over victims making it very difficult for them to get the help they need. 

“As restrictions ease, it’s vital that access to specialist domestic abuse support is readily accessible.”

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TSB branch staff have received specialist training to increase their confidence in responding to disclosures of domestic abuse and will provide victims with access to a safe space in their branch.

Victims can use a private room to make telephone calls, speak to a trained staff member and contact the police if necessary.

The support is available to both TSB customers and non-customers.

While the scheme has been rolled out following three pilots in TSB’s Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire branches over the past six months.

Carol Anderson, director of TSB’s branch network, said: “It’s clear during lockdown victims of domestic abuse have had fewer opportunities to seek help safely.

“For some, going into their local bank will be one of the few connections they have with the wider community and in partnership with Hestia we’ll be there to offer that support when they need it most.”

Hestia’s safe spaces initiative was awarded over £652,000 by Postcode Innovation Trust, a grant-making trust funded by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.

People can find safe spaces located in various businesses at uksaysnomore.org/safespaces.