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TSB Bank is now offering customers who are fleeing or experiencing domestic abuse free one-year access to .

Customers in need can simply download the app using a unique activation code. Those wishing to claim can also discuss their situation in the branch, over the phone or through video banking. Once installed, Hollie Guard Extra transforms an everyday smartphone into a personal safety device. TSB has added this protection to its existing domestic abuse support, which includes its Emergency Flee Fund and Safe Spaces to talk. Kate Osiadacz, head of responsible business at , said: "We are delighted to offer Hollie Guard Extra to our customers, which we hope will help boost people's personal safety and provide an additional layer of support. Recognising the alarmingly high rate of abuse, we are proud to build on our Emergency Flee Fund, and Safe Spaces with this 24/7 support to customers."

With a simple tap or shake of the device, users can send alerts to chosen emergency contacts, including the police, and a 24/7 monitoring centre.

The app allows for a user's location to be shared every five seconds, alongside audio and video recordings, helping to keep people safe in a vulnerable or potentially dangerous situation.

The app has already been downloaded by almost 500,000 people in the UK, and Hollie Guard Extra is being used by police forces across England and Wales. It has led to numerous arrests and helped in more than 1,500 threatening and dangerous situations.

This announcement builds on TSB's existing support for those experiencing abuse. More than 600 people have accessed TSB's Emergency Flee Fund, which provides up to £500 to help customers escape an abuser. In addition, TSB offers , both in branch and online.

Nick Gazzard OBE, Hollie Gazzard Trust, said: "Hollie Guard was created in memory of my twenty-year-old daughter Hollie, who was subjected to domestic abuse and stalking before she was murdered.

"As a Dad, I want to make sure everyone is safe, but if someone is being subjected to abuse, we need to make it easy for them to record what is happening, so the risk they face is known and they can be protected. I am so proud that Hollie Guard Extra is now helping to keep thousands of people safe. I am delighted that TSB is leading the way by making Hollie Guard Extra available to customers. I hope other businesses will do the same."

Jess Phillips MP, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, added: "The Government was elected on a mission to halve violence against women and girls in a decade. From embedding domestic abuse specialists in the first five 999 control rooms to launching new domestic abuse protection orders in select areas and announcing measures to tackle stalking, we are cracking on with action to better protect victims and strengthen our response to perpetrators.

"TSB's initiative shows how businesses can take action to prioritise their customers' safety and help deliver the whole-society approach needed to create lasting change in our fight against violence and abuse."