Nationwide launches online 'safe space' tool for domestic abuse survivors that leaves no browsing history

From the Newshound archive · first published 12 October 2026.

Nationwide Building Society has launched an online tool giving domestic abuse survivors discreet access to emergency contacts and support resources without leaving a trace in their browsing history. The tool, reachable through a link at the foot of every page on Nationwide's website, includes a quick-exit function and is open to non-customers as well. It extends an existing scheme already operating across more than 430 Nationwide branches and over 40 Virgin Money branches.

Nationwide's own research found 53% of those affected by domestic abuse had their access to money controlled by a perpetrator.

Office for National Statistics figures estimate 3.8 million adults experienced domestic abuse in England and Wales in the year to March 2025.