Nationwide Building Society has issued a statement regarding the future of its 605 high street branches, confirming an expansion of services and reaffirming its commitment to keep all locations open until at least 2030. The announcement follows the building society's recent decision to roll out an expanded service at some of its sites.
Branch Promise Extended
The savings provider pledged in late 2025 to maintain its entire network of branches throughout the UK, guaranteeing they will stay open until at least 2030. Nationwide also completed its takeover of Virgin Money in 2024. With 91 Virgin Money branches currently in operation, Nationwide has committed to keeping these sites open until at least 2030 as well. This assurance from the mutual stands in stark contrast to other major banking institutions, many of which are planning branch closures during 2026. Leading banks including NatWest and Santander have shut down multiple outlets in recent weeks.
Nationwide Statement
A Nationwide spokesperson responded to queries about extending the branch commitment beyond 2030: "We extended our branch promise last November, ensuring all Nationwide and Virgin Money branches will remain open until at least 2030. This gives customers reassurance that we're continuing to invest in face-to-face service as part of our commitment to offer real choice in how they bank - whether in branch, online or by phone. This flexibility is well received by customers."
The group was also asked which services customers regularly use in branch. The spokesperson said there has been a change in this regard. They explained: "Our branches remain popular, with usage having increased in recent years, particularly where other banks have closed locally. Alongside everyday banking, they provide a range of services to support customers, including our Scam Checker, Safe Spaces for victims of domestic abuse, dementia clinics through Dementia UK's Admiral Nurses, and Digital Lessons to help build confidence with technology."
Expanding Branch Services
Nationwide recently set out plans to extend its dementia clinics, with trial sessions at some of its Virgin Money branches. Through these clinics, customers can book a 45-minute appointment to discuss any concerns about the illness with a specialist nurse. Any person impacted by dementia is welcome to attend. Guidance is available on topics such as recognising symptoms, getting a diagnosis, and caring for someone living with the condition.
Nationwide members will also soon discover whether they are in line for another cash bonus this year via the Fairer Share scheme. This is a programme where the building society distributes its profits among loyal members. A £100 payment has been made over each of the past three years, with more than four million customers receiving the payout in 2025. Nationwide is expected to confirm details of this year's payment when it publishes its end-of-year financial results on Thursday, 21 May.
