A BANK has launched a pilot scheme to allow victims of domestic abuse to set up bank accounts without documentation.

TSB will be trialling the initiative in Alloa, Dundee and Galashiels in partnership with Women’s Aid to aid those affected get to safety sooner.

An emergency flee fund has also been established that will give victims access to a payment of up to £500 to help escape an abusive relationship.

This fund was developed in association with Hestia and Surviving Economic Abuse and is available from all 220 TSB branches around the country.

Farah Nazeer, chief executive of Women’s Aid, highlighted the importance the plans which aim to support and help as many survivors as possible.

She said: “Women’s Aid welcomes the launch of TSB’s emergency flee fund, which addresses a vital need to help survivors escape abuse in this crisis period.

“We are also pleased to work together with TSB on a pilot scheme enabling survivors to safely open and access a bank account without having to provide full documentation, helping survivors to flee and rebuild their lives after abuse.”

Research has shown that 67 per cent of domestic abuse victims struggle financially and have less than £100 come the end of the month.

Nazeer added: “We have campaigned for over four months for an emergency domestic abuse fund to support survivors across the country to pay for essential items and energy bills.

“We have found that 73 per cent of survivors are struggling to leave an abuser due to the cost-of-living crisis.

“We urge the government to follow this example and urgently create a fund that supports all survivors.”

Women’s Aid urge victims of domestic abuse to seek help immediately by calling 999 or by using a range of online tools.