Nationwide Expands Dementia Clinics to Virgin Money Branches in Major UK Trial
Nationwide Building Society is launching a significant trial to expand its dementia support services across Virgin Money branches in a move described as "vital" for communities. The building society, which operates branches in Birmingham and nationwide, will introduce specialist Admiral Nurse clinics to 12 Virgin Money locations across Northern England and Scotland starting in May.
Expanding Support Network Across the UK
This expansion builds upon Nationwide's existing network of dementia specialist nurse clinics, which already operates across more than 230 branches throughout the United Kingdom. Following the trial period and depending on customer demand, Nationwide aims to roll out these clinics to more of Virgin Money's 91 branches, potentially creating one of the most comprehensive dementia support networks within the UK banking sector.
The initiative comes as Nationwide reports strong demand for its dementia support services, with over 5,700 appointments booked in Nationwide branches since the partnership with Dementia UK began in 2024. The building society has invested extensively across more than 470 branches since 2017, with further investment planned across both Nationwide and Virgin Money locations.
Specialist Support for Families and Carers
Admiral Nurses provide tailored health, care, and financial guidance both in person and over the telephone, helping individuals affected by dementia along with their families and carers access specialist support within their local communities. These trained professionals understand the unique challenges associated with living with dementia and caring for someone with the condition.
Charlotte Kensett, Director of Social Impact and Customer Experience at Nationwide, emphasized the building society's commitment: "At Nationwide we want to ensure no one faces dementia alone, so by expanding into our Virgin Money branches we hope that more people will get the support they need. Anyone impacted by dementia can visit a specialist Admiral Nurse in one of our branches or call the dementia helpline on 0800 888 6678."
Building on Successful Partnerships
The expansion represents a continuation of Nationwide's Fairer Future programme and its partnership with Dementia UK. Dr Hilda Hayo, Chief Admiral Nurse and Chief Executive at Dementia UK, expressed enthusiasm about the development: "We are so pleased to be expanding our support to more families with dementia in Virgin Money branches through Nationwide's Fairer Future programme. To date, the face-to-face clinics have helped thousands of people to access vital support through our specialist dementia nurses in a safe and comfortable environment."
Dr Hayo added: "We know that Admiral Nurses are a lifeline to families with dementia. They understand the unique challenges that come with living with the condition and caring for someone with it. We look forward to continuing to deliver vital support in Virgin Money and Nationwide branches over the coming months."
This trial will increase the total number of UK branches offering dementia support to 250 locations, significantly expanding access to these crucial services for communities across the country. The initiative represents a substantial commitment to social responsibility within the financial services sector, providing practical support for one of the most challenging health conditions affecting UK families today.
