10 budget friendly Halloween ideas

October 4, 2022 11:34 am Leave a Comment

We all enjoy celebrating Halloween, but as the cost-of-living crisis bites, finding the extra cash for costumes and decorations is more frightening than the ghosts and ghouls. To help you make the most of Halloween this year, we have put together 10 budget friendly Halloween ideas.

DIY / reuse your costumes

It’s tempting to go out and buy new costumes every year, but do you really need too? If last year’s costumes still fits, give it a bit of a revamp so it can be used again this year. Adding some fake blood to any costume can instantly turn it into a zombie costume. If the little ones do need new costumes, why not try making them instead? Use an old sheet for a ghost or bandages for a mummy.

Hit the budget shops

Shops like Poundland, B&M and Home Bargains have a fantastic Halloween range and it’s all cheap to buy. This can help make a small budget go further.

Check out Facebook Marketplace

Buy and sell groups on Facebook have become really popular over the last few years, and you could possibly pick up a pre-loved Halloween costume or some decorations that are being sold. Many of things being sold on there are in really good condition and you could pick up a bargain.

Craft Halloween ideas

This tip is a 2 in 1 tip, as not only will it keep the little ones busy, but they can also make the decorations to go up around the house. Why not get them to make ghosts using paper place and a black marker? Or some scary eyes to stick up in the window or on the front door to make a monster.

Find Halloween activities

Search through Facebook to find any free Halloween events that are going on in your local town. There often many events for kids that are free or cost very little to attend.

Pick your own pumpkin

It can be tempting to just buy one from the local supermarket. Instead, why not find a local pumpkin farm so that the kids can pick their own. They will have lots of fun looking for the perfect pumpkin to take home with them to carve. Remember to save the insides for a pumpkin pie or soup.

Spooky cinema trip

Many cinemas at this time of year will show family Halloween films, often at a discounted price. Why not have a look on your local cinema’s website to see what spooky films are being shown for a fun and cheap day out.

Shop the sales

This one is a risky one as you could end up missing out, or on the flip side you could end up with some real bargains. Many shops will start selling their Halloween stock in the sale the week before Halloween itself, so why not hit the shops and see what you can find. If you already have Halloween this year covered, you maybe able to get some bits to put away for next year.

Have a Halloween hunt

This is such an easy and cheap Halloween idea to keep the kids busy. All you need is some card and some spooky things to hide. Write the clues and the card and let the kids have fun finding all the items. Make sure you have a prize at the end for the winner.

Halloween baking

Get the kids exciting about Halloween with some baking. This recipe for easy bake Halloween cookies is really simple to follow and will make 10 bats and 10 spiders. Then you have all the fun of eating them afterwards

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas loans – how Northern Community Bank can help finance your festive festivities

September 27, 2022 10:46 am Leave a Comment

Christmas loan! There, we’ve said it.
Yes, we know what month it is, but mince pies are already starting to hit supermarket shelves. Mariah Carey’s warming up her vocal chords, and there’s the faint, yet unmistakable sound, of Christmas party chatter.
The truth is it can never be too soon to start preparing for the most wonderful time of the year. Mainly because December – and January for that matter has the potential to be the most costly time of the year. And unless Father Christmas is bringing you a dramatically reduced energy price cap – to go with your Terry’s chocolate orange – there’s a good chance it may feel even more expensive than usual this winter.

Let Northern Community Bank ease the financial stress with a Christmas Loan

Parties, presents, pies (of the mince variety). Christmas costs have a habit of quickly snowballing if you don’t get them under control. This is why we always think it’s best to abide by the other three P’s: plan, prepare, Northern Community Bank.
Working out now how much you think you’re going to spend this Christmas means the only surprise you should be getting in December will hopefully be wrapped, and under a tree.
If this quick budgeting exercise is leaving you fearing a festive financial disaster, then don’t worry, because that’s where Northern Community Bank’s Christmas loans come in. Our Christmas loans are here to offer a financial helping hand to all. Whether you need a few extra quid to cover the cost of the turkey, or a few thousand to jump on a Ryanair sleigh and head abroad for three of our favourites S’s; sun, sea and sangria.
Northern Community Bank loan repayments are tailored to suit your financial circumstances and can be made by standing order or a direct benefit payment such as Child Benefit, Universal Credit or Tax Credits.
There’s no need to visit a branch either. The whole process can be done online, either through our Online Accounts Area or via the secure Northern Community Bank app.

Northern Community Bank is here for the community all year round

Father Christmas may be all the talk on December 25th, but here at Northern Community Bank the season of goodwill never ends.
Our Family Loan Saving Scheme, for instance, operates all year round, allowing families to borrow up to £500, which can be paid back using child benefit.
There’s no credit check, however Northern Community Bank perform an affordability assessment or early payment penalty fees, meaning you can settle up whenever you want. Then get an early start saving for next Christmas.
There’s no better way to build up your very own little next egg than through our extremely popular Christmas Club. This account allows you to only make cash or BACS withdrawals during the months of November and December. All savings are fully protected by the FSCS, and money does not have to be withdrawn all at once. So far over £270,000 has been saved by our account holders in our Christmas Club.
You see, Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful at all. Well, not until you’re heading out to do the big festive food shop…on Christmas Eve.

Time for a refresh? A home improvement loan from Northern Community Bank could help you create your dream home

10:15 am Leave a Comment

Home improvements are a fantastic way of breathing new life into property.
They can revitalise and reinvigorate, turning a tired room into a modern masterpiece or a run-down exterior into a must-see facelift with maximum kerb appeal.
As an added bonus, home improvements will almost definitely add value to your property as well; although the initial outlay could set you back a few quid
Large projects can run into the thousands, while even those small DIY jobs can soon begin to add up.
This is where affordable loans can become as handy as a tool belt.
But before we get into the number crunching, how about a few home improvement ideas to get the creative juices flowing?

Five home improvements that could boost your property

1. New kitchen. You won’t be surprised to learn that new kitchens don’t come cheap. But, when you’re pulling your world-famous roasties out of a brand-new oven, surrounded by sleek, contemporary cabinets and furniture, the last thing you’ll be thinking about is the cost. A new kitchen could easily add 10% to the value of your home, too.

2. Sprucing up the spare room. A small bedroom makeover is a cheap and easy option if you’re looking at how to add value to your home on a budget. Painting the walls a different colour can change the entire ambiance of a room, while fitted wardrobes could free up space while creating a sleek and stylish look. Perfect if you have any guests staying over at Christmas time.

3. Energy efficient appliances. It’s never been cooler to be green. Or smarter. Reducing your carbon footprint is not only healthier for the planet, it’s healthier for your bank balances. Fridge freezers, washing machines, televisions, computers etc are all rated A – G with A-rated appliances the most energy efficient, and therefore the most cost-effective. Why stop at appliances? Roof and/or wall insulation, along with new windows, could also take the heat out of rising energy bills.

4. Conservatory. A conservatory is a good way to add extra living space to a house. It will enhance your property internally, and externally, and can be used all year round. If you’re not a fan of conservatories, then maybe a garden bar?

5. Loft conversion. This is a sure-fire way to see the value of your home soar. There are lots of different types of conversions, so be sure to speak with a builder and an architect to find out your best options.

How can Northern Community Bank help with home improvements?

Now, we’re not going to come round to your house and start laying bricks. Trust us, you wouldn’t want that.
But what we can offer are the foundations to a better financial future, for you and your family.
Northern Community Bank is a not-for-profit organisation, which means we are able to offer much lower interest rates than you’re likely to find anywhere else.
Our loan decisions are also made by real people, not computers; and as long as we have all the required information, the money can, generally, be transferred to your account the same day. So, no excuse for putting off that trip to B&Q.

Are you searching for ‘no credit check loans’?

9:42 am Leave a Comment

Finding a loan that best suits your financial circumstances can be a stressful experience at the best of times. Finding no credit check loans can sometimes feel like an impossible one.
If you’re searching for ‘no credit check loans‘ then you certainly don’t need us to tell you the importance of having a good credit score.
The higher your score, the better your chances are of being approved for loans, credit cards, mortgages etc. You’re also far more likely to be offered a better rate of interest.
Lenders don’t do credit checks to pass judgement on your spending choices. They do them to see how much risk there would be attached to lending you money.
Unfortunately for borrowers, this process can all feel a little ‘black and white’, with a slightly less than perfect credit score often meaning you won’t be accepted.

Why is Northern Community Bank different from other lenders?

We should start off by saying that at Northern Community Bank we do perform credit history checks on some applications.
But that doesn’t mean if you’re looking for ‘no credit check loans‘ you’ve ended up in the wrong place. Not at all.
What sets Northern Community Bank apart from other lenders is the fact we don’t operate on a computer says ‘no’ basis. Each and every application we receive is assessed individually by a real person.
What does this mean?
Well, it means that our experienced and knowledgeable staff take into account all the circumstances surrounding your finances. This includes affordability, income, expenditure, payment history – and only lend amounts we are confident you can afford to pay back.
It means you have the best possible chance of being approved for a loan; rather than your application being at the mercy of an automated algorithm.
For those solely in the market for no credit check loans, then our £500 family loan and saving scheme could be right up your street.
This scheme is available to anyone in receipt of child benefit and does not require a credit check only an affordability check. We aim to reach a decision within one working day, and if successful can make a £500 BACS payment that same day.

What else does Northern Community Bank have to offer?

‘No credit check loans‘ are just a very small part of what Northern Community Bank has to offer.
Fast decisions – usually within 24 working hours. No early settlement penalties. No setup fees. And loans from £150 all the way up to £15,000.
Most importantly, we’re an organisation you can trust.
That trust is borne from four decades of dedicated service, helping our account holders to provide a better future not just for themselves, but their families, their children and their grandchildren.
This could be through our low interest rates, our save as you borrow scheme, or the friendly, helpful advice we happily provide on topics such as ‘no credit check loans’.

What support is there available if you are struggling to pay your energy bills?

September 15, 2022 9:27 am Leave a Comment

Recently the government have announced that October’s energy prices will be an average of £2500 a year. Thankfully this is no where near as high as what was originally being predicted, it is still a lot higher than last year’s prices which were around £1500.

Many people have found that their energy bills have massively increased and are finding it a struggle to cover the extra cost.

If you have found that you are struggling to pay your energy bills, you may be wondering what help there is. Here we have put together all the help that is currently available.

Money Advice services.

There are free services available online where you can get money and debt advice. A debt advisor can help talk through your money worries and help try to find a solution for you. You can find your local advice center here or money and debt information at turn2us, Stepchange or the Citizens Advice Bureau.

British Gas Energy Trust

If you are struggling with gas and electricity debts, then you may be able to apply for a grant to help clear that debt.

The individual & Families Debt write off fund is open to both British Gas and non-British Gas customers with an energy debt between £250 – £1500. The debt must apply to your primary residence and must be an active energy account.

Who can apply?

To be considered for the fund you must:

Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
Have an electric and / or gas debt
Have not received a grant from the British Gas Energy trust within the last 2 years
Not have savings over £1,000
Have received money advice – this will be asked for as part of the process. This will be considered alongside household outgoings to determine if you are in or at risk of fuel poverty.
Provide proof of household income (Please note there may be an income thresholds)

You can apply for the Individual & Families debt write off fund here

The British Gas Energy Support Fund

This is only open to British Gas customers, however many suppliers have their own support funds available to their customers, although the criteria may be different. The debt must apply to your primary residence and must be an active energy account.

Who can apply?

To be considered for the British Gas Energy Fund you must:

Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
You have electric and/or gas debt between £250 – £1,500; and
You must be in or facing Fuel Poverty.
Provide proof of all household income (please note there may be an income threshold)
Provide an up-to-date meter reading

You can apply for the Britsh Gas Energy Fund here

If you are not a British Gas customer, you may be able to apply for an energy support fund grant with your supplier. Listed below are the energy companies currently offering support funds to their customers:

Scottish Power Hardship Fund – apply for a grant on the Scottish Power Hardship Fund website
Ovo Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the Ovo Energy Fund website
E.ON Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the E.ON Energy Fund website
E.ON Next Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the E.ON Next Energy Fund website
EDF Energy Customer Support Fund – sign up to the priority services register to apply for a grant on the EDF Energy website
Bulb Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the Bulb Energy Fund website
Octopus ‘Octo Assist Fund’ – apply for a grant on the Octopus website

Help from the Government

The government is also providing support for many people to help them through the cost-of-living crisis. Some of the support includes £400 discount on energy bills, and cost of living payments to people who are on certain benefits.

Go Compare interactive energy calculator

It’s gotten more expensive for providers to buy energy, which has led to it costing more for us to power our homes. This is why GoCompare, have developed an interactive energy cost calculator tool to find out how much something costs to run. Use the calculator to pick the appliances you want to compare and select how long they’ll be in use for.

We have more information and energy saving tips available on our website

Help with energy bills – what you can do if you’re struggling with rising costs

September 5, 2022 2:12 pm Leave a Comment

For the majority of the UK population, looking for help with energy bills is now an almost daily ritual.
And is it any wonder? An average bill looks set to rise again in October by 70% to £3,358 a year.
With one in three households expected to be in fuel poverty as we head into winter, the situation is becoming increasingly uncertain.
And it doesn’t show any signs of easing with some forecasters warning we could hit the £7,000 mark in 2023.
What’s the government doing to help with energy bills?
Well, aside from telling people to buy a new kettle, two payments totalling £650 are being made to more than eight million low-income households. While a £400 discount, administered by energy suppliers, will be paid to all consumers over six months, starting in October.
This quite simply isn’t going to be enough for many, which is why some people are beginning to consider drastic action.

Should I cancel my direct debit?

Campaign group Don’t Pay UK is demanding a reduction in energy bills to an affordable level, otherwise they’re calling on people to cancel their direct debits from October 1st.
If you are considering going down this route, please be aware of the possible repercussions.
Refusing to pay your direct debit will probably result in you being charged a fee. It also means your energy company may begin sending you your bills, which could be at a higher rate.
You also need to be wary of the potential impact it may have on your credit history.
A missed payment could sit on your credit file for six years. That will make it harder to get approved for things like a mortgage, car finance, credit cards or personal loans. Speak to a financial advisor first if you have any doubts

What should I do if I’m struggling to pay my energy bills?

Quick tips to help with energy bills include turning your appliances off standby, switching your lights off, spending less time in the shower, avoiding using the tumble dryer where possible, and draught-proofing doors and windows.
If you can afford the initial outlay, adding in roof and loft insulation, fitting solar panels, or installing more thermal efficient windows and doors, are highly effective ways of making your home energy efficient. As well as lowering your bills you’ll also be doing your bit to help protect the planet.
The moment you are, or think you’re going to be, struggling to pay a bill, contact your energy supplier. There are a range of options they can look at offering. From a full payment plan review, payment reductions, or allowing more time to pay. They may eventually opt to put you on a prepayment meter.
f you’re still struggling, and want advice on borrowing money affordably, Northern Community Bank’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are always here to help. Contact us today on 01282 691333.

Northern Community Bank’s quick loans are a real lifesaver

1:39 pm Leave a Comment

Patience is the best remedy for every trouble. If you’ve ever been in a situation where you’re trying to find a lender who’ll offer quick loans, you’ll know that old saying doesn’t necessarily always ring true. Few things in life cause us more stress or anxiety than money woes.
And while taking out an ordinary loan isn’t exactly anybody’s idea of fun, when time is of the essence, the whole process can end up becoming even more infuriating, not to mention terrifyingly expensive.
Northern Community Bank completely understands this, which is why we have dedicated years to providing a quick loans service that’s fair, friendly, and stress-free.
Before we get to that though, here are four of the biggest reasons people come to Northern Community Bank in need of quick loans:

4 reasons people need quick loans

1. Everyday expenses. As the cost-of-living crisis continues to tighten its grip on the nation, more and more households are struggling to cover rising energy bills, fuel costs and food prices. With the situation changing almost month to month, quick loans are becoming a vital way to help keep people’s budgets on track.

2. Home Improvements. Turning your house into your dream home can be quite expensive. Especially if it’s more than a lick of paint that’s needed. A quick loan can help keep home improvement costs under control.

3. Car repairs. How is it our cars almost always decide to break down at the most inappropriate moments? A mile away from payday, and right when we’ve got that important commute just around the corner? A quick loan to cover the cost of the repairs is sometimes the only option.

4. Holiday. Maybe you just need to get away from it all and jump on the next plane to somewhere hot and sunny. A quick loan could see you at the airport before you can say, “One cocktail, please.”

How Northern Community Bank can help deliver quick loans

People are at their most vulnerable when looking for quick loans. Payday lenders are notorious for charging astronomical interest rates that can trap borrowers in spiraling debts.
Northern Community Bank has never operated in this way. What you see is what you get with us – no hidden fees or charges. Just loan repayments carefully tailored to suit your financial circumstances.
And these loans – of up to £15,000 – are usually, as long as we have all the required documentation, ready to be paid into your account within 24 working hours.
We pride ourselves on delivering the best possible service when delivering quick loans.
As one account holder put it: “Great and fast. I can’t wait to start saving now.”
And our secure Nivo app even allows applications to be completed and signed for from your phone, making access to quick loans quicker than ever before.

Stop searching the web for loans for bad credit – we can help

12:59 pm Leave a Comment

Have you ever spent time online searching for ‘loans for bad credit’?

If you’re sitting there nodding yes, then don’t worry, you’re not alone. A bad credit score is something people from all walks of life run the risk of falling foul of.
Late payment of bills, or a loan default – one financial mistake and your credit history is more than likely going to take a hit.
A poor credit report doesn’t just potentially affect your chances of getting a mortgage, an overdraft, car finance, credit cards, or a mobile phone contract; it also lowers your chances of getting a personal loan. And that’s why ‘loans for bad credit‘ is such a popular online search query.
For those worried about a less than perfect credit score, Northern Community Bank is here to tell you ‘it’s ok’, we’re specialists when it comes to loans and poor credit. And here’s why:

5 reasons Northern Community Bank can help you get a loan – even with bad credit

1. Northern Community Bank looks at much more than a credit score when dealing with loan applications. We look at your affordability for a loan – the money you have coming in, the money you have going out. Once we’ve taken all your circumstances into account, then we will make a decision.

2. Northern Community Bank doesn’t use computers to make loan decisions. While a lot of lenders rely solely on computers to determine who is, and who isn’t, fit for a loan, we entrust our staff with the task of fully understanding a person’s financial situation.

3. We can improve your credit history by reporting the repayments you make back to the credit reference agency.

4. We help account holders stick to a saving or loan repayment schedule – meaning we are more likely to re-lend again if you need it.

5. Our ‘Save as you borrow’ scheme helps you to build up your savings as you pay back your loan. This means the next time an unexpected cost arises; you’ll be ready for it.

How else can Northern Community Bank help with loans for bad credit?

What’s worse than a bill? An unexpected bill. Car repairs, impromptu visit to the vet, tele on the blink; unfortunately, life is littered with unforeseen costs that can threaten to derail even the most prudent of budgets.
At Northern Community Bank, we’re fully aware of this.
We’ve been handling people’s finance for almost four decades now, and as a not-for-profit organisation, our time, effort, and commitment lies solely with the account holder.
That’s why you won’t find any setup fees attached to our loans, or even early settlement penalties.
And the best thing? You don’t even have to come into a branch to start the process. The whole application can be done online, either through our Online Accounts Area or via the secure app.
So, stop searching the web for loans for bad credit, and get in touch with Northern Community Bank.

10 Free kids’ activities for the summer holidays

August 3, 2022 11:17 am Leave a Comment

Summer is in full swing!

It’s easy for the kids to get bored quickly. You may think that you have to spend lots of money to keep them busy. To help keep them entertained, we have put together a list of free activities for kids.

Have a picnic. This activity is so fun and simple, the kids can even help make the sandwiches. You don’t have to go far just to the local park, or you could even have a picnic in the garden. Just pack up some goodies and a blanket and head on out. Turn it into a teddy bear’s picnic by taking your little one’s favourite toy with them.
Go for a nature walk. If the weather’s good, why not head outside for a walk and explore your local area. You can go on a nature walk anywhere, if you talk about what you can see around you – What animals/plants/insects/birds do you see? Make it more fun by turning it into a game of I spy.
Set up an obstacle course. Use things you find around the house to create an obstacle course either in the garden or indoors if you have the space. If you are feeling extra creative, turn it into a mini sports day by having games such as the egg and spoon race, or the sack race.
Make paper airplanes. Then you can have races to see which one flies for the longest or the furthest. Here are some simple instructions for making a basic paper plane.
Go to the library. A great activity for when it’s raining. Not only is it free to join the library, but during the summer holidays, there are usually lots of other activities going on that the kids can join in.
Have a movie day. If it’s raining outside why not cosy up on the sofa with a blanket and have a movie day. Grab some snacks or popcorn to give it more of a cinema feel.
Visit a museum. Lots of museums up and down the UK are free to visit and make a great day out for both you and the kids. You can find a list of free museums here.
Go camping. You don’t have to go far as you can pitch up the tent in the garden and spend a night under the stars. If you don’t have a tent, see if any of your family or friends have one that you can borrow.
Paint rocks/stones. Head out on a walk and get the kids to pick the most interesting looking rocks they can find. Then when you get home, the kids can decorate them to display around the house when they have finished.
My Pet Pals workshop. Pets at home will be running free workshops all through the summer holidays, that teach children how to care for animals. There are games, colouring and crafts, and a Pet Pals certificate. Book a session online here

If you are looking to borrow & save this Summer Northern Community Bank’s Family Loan & Saving Scheme may be of interest to you. Borrow up to £500 for family expenses and use your Child Benefit to make the repayments and saving deposits – We assess your affordability with no credit check. Click here to read more.

What you see is what you get with Northern Community Bank’s low APR loans

August 2, 2022 12:10 pm Leave a Comment

Phrases like ‘low APR loans’ can be as annoying as they are confusing to the ordinary person on the street.

After all, it’s not as if we’re taught about financial services at school. Yet the older we get, the more often we seem to come across terms like ‘representative APR’, ‘credit score’ and ‘fixed interest rate’.

Now, you’re not going to get much help from Northern Community Bank if you come to us asking about politics or science, but when it comes to low APR loans, well, we do consider ourselves top of the class.

That’s not just because we understand how low APR loans work, but because we understand how they work best for you.

What does representative APR mean?

Before we go into what low APR loans are, or what representative APR is, we should explain what APR actually stands for.

Simply, APR is the overall cost you pay each year to borrow money. This is expressed as a percentage – your Annual Percentage Rate.

The best way to compare loans or other sources of finance is representative APR. This paints the fullest picture, taking into account the interest rate, along with any additional charges/fees.

What you tend to find is that the majority of lenders will advertise a ‘representative APR’. This is the rate that at least 51% of those accepted for credit will get.

However, this means that almost half the people who are approved for the loan or credit may not be eligible for the advertised rate, leaving them hit with a higher rate of interest and a higher rate of borrowing.

With Northern Community Bank, the rate we quote you is the rate you pay, every single time.

And remember, all lenders have to tell you what their APR is before you sign a credit agreement.

How is Northern Community Bank able to offer such low APR loans?

You can’t spend longer than a minute on our website without seeing the words ‘not-for-profit’. Those three little words are extremely important to us.

Being not-for-profit enables us to keep our interest rates as low as possible. How low? Well, this table shows how much you’d be expected to pay back on a £500 family loan in comparison to other lenders.

We can offer these rates because we’re not here to line external shareholders’ pockets. We’re here to help people in the community access ethical savings.

Community banks can only charge a maximum of 42.6% APR. However with Northern Community Bank, the higher the loan value, the lower the APR will be. And with loans ranging from £500 to £15,000, that can make a big difference.

Whatever the APR of your loan, rest assured, repayments will be tailored to suit you and your financial circumstances.

If you want to talk about low APR loans, or anything else related to borrowing, feel free to speak with one of our highly trained members of staff today.

Northern Community Bank’s quotations are free, and involve no set-up fees. This means you have all the time in the world to find the best loan out there for you.

How Northern Community Bank can help you find school uniform deals that are top of the class

August 1, 2022 10:12 am Leave a Comment

It would be perfectly understandable if the last thing on your mind right now was school uniform deals.

After all, the school summer holidays are only in their infancy, and the chances are you’re probably preparing for the big family getaway you’ve been patiently counting down the days to. We’re certainly not here to burst any holiday bubbles, but we are here to help prepare you for your little ones’ inevitable return to the classroom. So, while you may currently be hunting high and low for swimwear and sun cream, don’t forget to spare a thought for school uniform deals – because the ‘Back to School’ posters will be popping up before you know it.

How much do school uniforms cost?

Whether this is your first time on the lookout for school uniform deals, or your fifth, many families can find these summer weeks extremely challenging, and excruciatingly expensive. For one, the costs often fall at an awfully bad time, right after a summer of holidays and fun days out with the children.

We’re also aware that school uniform costs don’t stop at a new blazer and a pair of shoes. There’s often other hidden costs such as calculators, sports kits, and musical instruments. And those calculators will certainly come in handy when totting up all the items you need to buy.

According to figures from a 2020 study carried out by charity The Children’s Society, parents with children in state-maintained schools spent on average £337 a year on school uniform for each secondary school child, and £315 a year for each primary school child. That’s more than three times what parents told the charity they felt was a reasonable cost for primary and secondary uniforms.

Local authorities do offer assistance – www.lancashire.gov.uk/children-education-families/schools/school-uniform and www.cumbria.gov.uk/childrensservices/schoolsandlearning/freeschoolmeals.asp – although the criteria is often strict.

And while websites like –www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/cheap-school-uniform/ – can be a big help, even the cheapest school uniform deals will require parting with a large chunk of money all at once.

Why is Northern Community Bank the answer to school uniform deals?

Last year, we helped 500 families spread the cost of expensive school uniforms with an affordable loan. As we’ve already mentioned, these costs rarely come at a good time, and often arrive at the same time. It’s Northern Community Bank’s mission to ensure that when you do find the best school uniform deals out there, you’re fully equipped to take advantage.

Take our Family Loan & Saving Scheme option, for instance. With this, we assess your affordability without a credit check, and use your child benefit to make the repayments; affordable repayments tailored to suit your financial circumstances.

If you already have a Family Loan with us, you may be eligible for a top-up. A top-up is the term used to increase your existing loan balance – you can apply to do this once a number of repayments have been made.

You will also be encouraged to make regular saving repayments alongside repaying your loan, meaning you’ll have a handy pot saved up for next year’s school uniforms.

Apply for a loan from the comfort of your home with Northern Community Bank online loan options

July 26, 2022 10:44 am Leave a Comment

The online loan has been a key part of what Northern Community Bank has to offer for many, many years.

Since the world was turned on its head, it’s become an even more integral cog in our ever-evolving machine. That’s because we place the highest value on account holder comfort. Now don’t get us wrong, we love seeing our lovely accounts holders’ faces when they pop into one of our branches, In fact, nothing brightens up our day more.

But after two years of Covid-19 and restrictions, we know many people in the community are now much more comfortable communicating through digital channels. As a result, Northern Community Bank’s online loan options are becoming a firm favourite with applicants.

How Northern Community Bank is leading the online loan revolution

Even before the pandemic, Northern Community Bank was fully aware that lots of our neighbours in the community simply did not like walking into financial institutes. Face-to-face meetings can be stressful and time-intensive, which is why we’ve always been available for a friendly chat on the telephone or via our different online channels.

The Nivo app is one such channel, similar to WhatsApp, where you can discuss different online loan options, or any other financial queries, with our highly trained team. More than 9,500 members currently use the secure app; all of whom are huge fans of the facilities functions.

What all this means is that there really is no need to ever visit a branch. The whole application process can be done online, either through our Online Accounts Area or via the Nivo app.

Just sit back, in the comfort of your own home, and relax, safe in the knowledge all the answers to any of the questions you may have, are right there, at the end of your fingertips.

Apply online, decision online, sign online. It really is as simple as that.

What should I do if I need an online loan today?

The summer holidays are here, and that means one thing – money, money, money.

Our four decades of serving the community means we know that people often need to borrow at this time of the year, whether that be for a much-needed break or to purchase the ever-increasing list of items needed for sending the kids back to school in September. Well, the Northern Community Bank online loan is here to help with just that.

Within 24 hours – as long as we have all the required information – your loan could be winging its way to your bank account. We can provide both small and larger loans, ranging from £150 to £15,000, and repayments are always tailored to suit your financial circumstances.

And in a world of ever-advancing technology, you may be pleased to learn that our loan decisions are made by real people, not computers.

Northern Community Bank is here for the community, which means it is here for you.

Speak to one of our staff members today – through Nivo , phone, by text, by email, or in person – and let us help put your financial future on firmer footing.

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