Nationwide Building Society has provided an update on the future of its nationwide branch network, confirming that all 696 branches across Nationwide and Virgin Money are set to remain open until at least 2030.
The announcement comes as many major banks continue reducing their physical presence on UK high streets. Nationwide said its long-term commitment is designed to give customers more flexibility in how they manage their finances, whether through in-person services, online banking, or telephone support.
The building society first pledged in late 2025 to keep all 605 Nationwide branches operating until at least the end of the decade. Following its acquisition of Virgin Money in 2024, Nationwide has now extended the same commitment to the additional 91 Virgin Money branches.
Commitment
Nationwide’s latest statement highlights a different approach from many large UK banking providers, several of which have announced branch closures during 2026.
Banks including NatWest and Santander have closed a number of locations in recent months as more customers move toward digital banking services. Nationwide, however, says physical branches still play an important role for many communities.
| Branch Network | Number of Locations |
|---|---|
| Nationwide branches | 605 |
| Virgin Money branches | 91 |
| Total branches | 696 |
The building society said the decision reflects ongoing demand for face-to-face banking services, particularly in areas where other providers have reduced their local presence.
Services
According to Nationwide, branch usage has increased in some locations as nearby bank closures leave fewer in-person options for customers.
The organisation said branches continue to provide a range of services beyond standard banking transactions.
A Nationwide spokesperson said customers value having different ways to access support, including in branch, online, and over the phone.
The spokesperson added that branches offer several additional services, including:
- Scam Checker support
- Safe Spaces for domestic abuse victims
- Dementia clinics
- Digital learning sessions
Nationwide said these services are designed to help customers who may need extra support or prefer face-to-face interaction.
Dementia
One of the building society’s recent initiatives involves expanding dementia support clinics across selected branches.
Pilot sessions are now being introduced at certain Virgin Money locations following earlier programmes within Nationwide branches. The clinics provide 45-minute appointments with specialist nurses from Dementia UK.
The service is open to anyone affected by dementia, including family members and carers.
Customers attending the clinics can receive support on:
| Support Area | Assistance Provided |
|---|---|
| Symptom awareness | Knowing early signs |
| Diagnosis guidance | Information on seeking assessments |
| Care support | Advice for carers and families |
| General information | Help understanding dementia |
Nationwide said the clinics are part of its wider effort to provide practical community support through its branch network.
Banking
While digital banking continues to grow across the UK financial sector, Nationwide believes many customers still value physical branches for more complex conversations and personal assistance.
The organisation said some customers use branches for help with fraud concerns, account support, or learning digital banking skills.
Industry-wide branch closures have also increased attention on access to in-person banking, especially for older customers and people living in smaller communities.
Nationwide’s decision to maintain all current locations until at least 2030 provides a longer-term guarantee than many competitors currently offer.
Fairer
Alongside its branch update, Nationwide members are also waiting for news regarding this year’s Fairer Share payment scheme.
The programme has provided eligible members with a £100 payment in each of the past three years as part of Nationwide’s profit-sharing approach.
More than four million members received the payment in 2025.
Nationwide is expected to announce whether the scheme will continue this year when it publishes its annual financial results on Thursday, May 21.
| Fairer Share Scheme | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous payment amount | £100 |
| Consecutive years paid | 3 |
| Members paid in 2025 | Over 4 million |
The building society has not yet confirmed eligibility rules or payment dates for any potential 2026 distribution.
Outlook
Nationwide’s latest statement reinforces its position as one of the few major financial institutions continuing to invest in a large physical branch network.
The organisation says customers increasingly value having multiple ways to access banking services, particularly as many competing banks continue reducing in-person operations.
With all Nationwide and Virgin Money branches currently protected until at least 2030, customers now have greater clarity about the future availability of local branch services.
Attention will now turn to Nationwide’s upcoming financial results, where members are expected to learn more about the future of the Fairer Share payment programme and the building society’s broader plans for the years ahead.
FAQs
How many branches does Nationwide operate?
Nationwide and Virgin Money operate 696 branches.
How long will branches stay open?
They are guaranteed to remain open until 2030.
What are Nationwide dementia clinics?
They offer support and guidance on dementia.
What is the Fairer Share payment?
It is a profit-sharing payment for eligible members.
