Safe Browsing
From 31 March Hestia and UK SAYS NO MORE are pleased to be partnering with AIB to ensure anyone experiencing domestic abuse can access a Safe Space in any AIB branch across Northern Ireland. Safe Spaces offer a secure and private environment to look up information, phone a helpline, contact support services, or talk to a friend or family member.
Launched by Hestia’s UK SAYS NO MORE campaign, the Safe Spaces scheme offers vital routes to safety and specialist support for victims-survivors of domestic abuse.
Employees in all AIB branches have received specialist training on Safe Spaces and domestic abuse awareness. AIB also operates an ‘Additional Support Helpline’ 0345 646 0318 for any customers that require additional support or confidential advice during vulnerable times.
Speaking about the partnership, Seamus McGuckin, Head of Corporate at AIB, said:
“At AIB, we are committed to supporting our customers and communities, especially those facing difficult circumstances. By providing ‘Safe Spaces’ in all our branches across Northern Ireland, together with our other support measures, we will help ensure that anyone experiencing domestic abuse has a secure and private place to seek help.
We recognise the importance of accessibility to specialist support and through our partnership with Hestia’s UK SAYS NO MORE campaign, we hope to play a small but vital role in helping those in need find safety and support.”
Patrick Ryan, Chief Executive of Hestia, said:
“A safe route to support can be a lifeline for someone experiencing domestic abuse. That’s why we launched Safe Spaces in everyday places like banks and pharmacies – to provide a safe way to get specialist help and advice, or to call a loved one.
“We’re delighted to be partnering with AIB whose support will make a real difference for victims-survivors across Northern Ireland. Staff across all AIB branches have participated in our domestic abuse awareness training, and we will now have more than 170 Safe Spaces in banks and pharmacies across the country. By working together, we can ensure that every victim-survivor of domestic abuse has a place to turn to.”
