15 Sep 2021

Nationwide launches its new Community Support Van

Nationwide is touring the UK in a specially kitted-out van that will give those not used to banking online a helping hand at a time digital transactions continue to soar.

Britain’s biggest building society has launched the new Community Support Van to provide help and advice at a time when more people than ever are adopting online banking due to the impact of the pandemic.

In a bid to reach even more people, it is hoped the Community Support Van will encourage shoppers and passers-by to pop in with any financial questions or issues they may face.

While many people have been able to make the transition to online banking conveniently and easily, the Society recognises it is sometimes tougher for others. This is why Nationwide is offering additional support in the form of the Community Support Van as well as in-branch and virtual Tea and Tech sessions.

The van, which is fully accessible to all, will be hosted by experienced Nationwide staff equipped with iPads, enabling people - regardless of who they bank with - to benefit from digital demonstrations to confidently manage their finances online.

The Community Support Van will visit and support local communities across the UK. Starting in Derby on Saturday, 18 September at The Spot, (Derbion entrance) from 9.30am-4pm.

People can turn up without having to make an appointment and get access to a broad range of services, from help with banking online, learning how to keep their money safe, discussing products and services and booking an appointment with a local branch.

Amanda Beech, Director of Retail Distribution and Servicing, said: “Whilst we remain committed to investing in our branch network we’re always exploring new and innovative ways to help support our members, and our Community Support Van is another example of this. It will be in local communities up and down the country, with Nationwide employees available to talk to people about any of their financial needs and answer any digital and online banking questions, from how to bank online to advice on fraud and any other concerns they might have.”

While the van will be used to give advice people will not be able to withdraw money or conduct any transactions. The nearest branch to do this is 2 Albion Street, Derby, DE1 2PR.

To find out where the Community Support Van will be located and when, or to get more information on Nationwide’s Tea and Tech sessions take a look at Nationwide.co.uk or contact your local branch.

Notes to editors

Media Information

Caroline Kingston, 07824 599364, caroline.kingston@nationwide.co.uk

Lindsay Price, 07595 617023, lindsay.price@nationwide.co.uk

Notes to Editor:

About Nationwide Building Society

Nationwide is the world's largest building society. It is owned by its 16 million members and exists to serve their needs. The Society is one of the UK’s largest providers for mortgages, savings and current accounts, as well as being a major provider of ISAs, credit cards, personal loans, insurance and investments.

As a mutual organisation, Nationwide Building Society uses its unique position to help rebuild society by making a positive difference to the lives of its members and the communities in which they live. It is why Nationwide still values a branch network, supports communities through charitable grants, and places a premium on helping people thrive financially – whether helping them into a home of their own or giving them the financial support they need. Taking a stand and making a difference is what sets Nationwide apart. None of which would be possible without the dedicated service of its 18,000 employees.