Domestic abuse victims will have access to 'safe spaces' as part of a Watford bank's new scheme.

People suffering physical, emotional or economic harm from their partners can go to the Metro Bank in High Street and seek support.

The bank has set up a safe space for victims to call a helpline, support service or a loved one without being monitored.

Watford Observer: Metro Bank, 113 High Street, WatfordMetro Bank, 113 High Street, Watford (Image: Google Street View)

Patrick Ryan, chief executive of domestic abuse charity Hestia, said: “We have heard countless stories from survivors who were unable to even make a phone call without being monitored.

“Popping into a local high street bank may be the only time when they’re not watched.”

To access help, a person needs to ask a member of staff to use their ‘safe space’ and then they will be shown to a private room.

The store is open Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6pm, and Sunday from 11am to 5pm.

Watford Metro Bank store manager Charlotte Yellowlees said: “As a community bank, we want to be able to support anyone locally who wishes to use our private safe space to help them plan the next stages of their new life.”

The safe spaces scheme is part of the UK Says No More campaign and the global awareness week is between March 5 and 12.