Easter Holiday Loans

March 28, 2022 10:13 am Leave a Comment

If Northern Community Bank holiday loans are needed to help get your next dream break off the ground then you’ve definitely landed in the right place. There’s nothing quite like looking for a spring or summer escape to boost your mood.

Flicking through holiday brochures, imagining yourself swimming up to that pool bar, cocktails on the beach as the sun goes down. It doesn’t matter whether you’re eyeing up a weekend in Blackpool or planning two weeks in Barbados, a family break is a family break. But while researching holiday destinations is definitely one of our favourite things to do, paying for them is another issue.

As the sky-high cost of living continues to soar, affording the fun things we want to do in life is potentially going to become a lot more difficult. Well at Northern Community Bank we believe everybody deserves a break, and that’s why our Northern Community Bank holiday loans are just the ticket.

There’s no baggage with Northern Community Bank holiday loans

The lights may have gone out on the dreaded holiday traffic light system, but that doesn’t necessarily mean all the stress of travel has been removed. Fortunately, our holiday loans have been designed to make the payment side of things as relaxing as a stroll on the beach – regardless of your circumstances.

Northern Community Bank Holiday loans no credit check? No problem. Our £500 family loan and saving scheme is perfect for those in need of a little lift, but who may be worried about their credit history. Following an affordability assessment, family loans can be ready in no time at all, and allow for child benefits to be used for the repayments.

For those looking to book a big family holiday abroad, Northern Community Bank has been providing people with holiday loans of up to £15,000 for 40 years. Whatever the amount, we will always ensure the repayments are spread over a manageable period. We also offer free loan quotes meaning you can take your time and make an informed decision after weighing up all the available options.

Northern Community Bank offers a first class loans service

From the moment you ‘check-in’ at Northern Community Bank, to the moment your holiday loan arrives in your account, our crew will look after you every step of the journey. There are no setup fees or early settlement penalties to weigh you down. And a free bereavement fund benefit on savings and loans (subject to rules) is also included for extra peace of mind.

Each and every application is assessed individually by a person – not a computer. We look at affordability, income and expenditure, and only lend amounts we are confident you can afford to pay back. And our save as you borrow scheme means by the time you’re pining for another week in the sun, you’ll already have a nice amount saved up ready to put towards it.

Speak to Northern Community Bank today, and let us show you why when it comes to holiday loans we’re with you for the long haul.

Northern Community Bank donates £19,000 to local organisations at 40th AGM in 2022

March 18, 2022 4:19 pm Leave a Comment

Northern Community Bank announces 1.5% dividend and makes charitable donations to support a variety of organisations, with two large donations in memory of late Board member Peter Pike at 40th AGM.

Northern Community Bank account holders attended the first hybrid AGM, which allowed account holders to participate virtually or in-person at Burnley Football Club’s 1882 lounge to vote in favour of providing the charitable donations to much-needed organisations still struggling with raising funds due to coronavirus restrictions over the last two years.

The not-for-profit community bank, which operates from three branches in Nelson, Colne and Burnley donated £2,500 to both Building Bridges and St Peter’s Church Burnley in memory of Peter Pike. The former Burnley MP was a longstanding Board member of the community bank, first pioneering the formation of the Burnley Area Community Bank and then being instrumental in the merger with the Pendle Community Bank to offer more services to residents in the local community in 2013 when Northern Community Bank was formed.

The Leader of Burnley Council and Chair of Building Bridges Burnley, Councillor Afrasiab Anwar gave a well-received keynote speech explaining the work the organisation does and the involvement of Peter Pike

“Building Bridge Burnley operates to bring the community together, to learn from each other, especially through faith and interfaith activities. It allows people to learn about other cultures and be comfortable within their own culture. I met Peter Pike through community groups like Building Bridges, he became a colleague, friend and confidant. Peter was committed to organisations like Northern Community Bank and Building Bridges but importantly to the communities we operate in. It is an honour to continue working with organisations that he supported. I’d like to congratulate Northern Community Bank for operating for over 40 years but also to thank you for the service you have provided to our communities. The work that you do is invaluable.”

Northern Community Bank recently expanded to provide ethical savings accounts and affordable loans to communities across East Lancashire and Cumbria. Those in attendance heard how the community bank proposed to support 16 organisations across the areas it provides services including Pendle Samaritans, Colne Youth Action Group, Thomas rehabilitation Blackburn, The St Vincent de Paul Society, The Good Life Project, Georgia Fourie Butterfly Fund, Pendle Voice, Colne under 13’s Football Team, Barnoldswick and Earby Bosom Friends Cancer Support Group, Pendle Dogs in Need, The Food Pantry in Cleator Moor and The Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association.

Emma Ibbetson from Elisha House, Colne explained how the £1000 donation would assist the recovery programme for their residents with a history of substance abuse

“Thank you Northern Community Bank for the very generous donation. As a community interest company, we are a not-for-profit and every penny goes back into the project to help as many people as possible. This donation will be used to buy recording equipment to document the resident’s journeys, offering testimonials and hope for those waiting to join the programme.”

Whilst Christina Cope, Development Officer at Gawthorpe Textiles Collection, founded by Rachel Kay-Shuttleworth in 1959, highlighted how the donation would be used by their charity

“On behalf of everyone at GTC and the participants of our Community Outreach projects I would like to thank the members of Northern Community Bank for their very generous donation of £1000. I really enjoyed attending the AGM and it was a great opportunity for me to explain about our charity and how we use the collection through exhibitions, artist collaborations, workshops, talks, tours, research, and study visits. We offer activities at Gawthorpe Hall and community outreach through Valley Street Textiles Studio, Burnley (which is a joint initiative with Calico Homes). Donations such as this enable us to continue caring for the collection for future generations”

It was also announced at the 40th AGM that savers would benefit from a 1.5% dividend on savings due to another year of growth, whilst borrowers would be rewarded with a loan rebate of 10%. Over the past year, the community bank had increased savings from £9.9m to £12.7m, whilst the number of affordable loans provided to members of the community had also increased by 21%.

Northern Community Bank President, Gerard Spain was enthusiastic about the performance of the community bank over the last year and optimistic about the future

“It has been another successful year for Northern Community Bank. The growth we have seen shows that there is a real need for credit union services in the communities we serve. As we enter our 40th year we will be giving our account holders back £340,000 in dividends and loan rebate. The 1.5% compares very favourably with any instant access savings accounts on the market. As well as the increased dividend, the £19,000 charitable donations re-enforces our commitment to benefit not only our account holders but the wider communities we operates in.”

Our low cost loans make what’s important both achievable and affordable

February 21, 2022 10:50 am Leave a Comment

Low cost loans are a valuable part of the financial landscape. With good reason. How many times have you had to put off something you really wanted to do? A family holiday, perhaps. Buying the new car you’ve had your eye on for a while. The garden you were going to have landscaped three years ago. Covid has thrown everybody’s life into disarray. But if there’s one thing it has taught us, it’s that we shouldn’t be saying ‘no’ to the things we want to do.

Now, some of the best things in life may be free; but there’s plenty that cost money, too. Family holidays don’t come cheap, nor do new cars. Are you going to landscape that garden yourself? We thought not. As the world returns to normal – or at least a new normal – it’s time to start making plans again.

Low cost loans can make these plans both achievable and affordable.

Why are low cost loans one possible solution to my money concerns?

Finding the money for a holiday, car or new garden can, at times, feel like an impossible task. Especially if you’re saving from scratch. Low cost loans, or low interest loans, allow us to spread those costs over a manageable period through a tailored repayment schedule that suits your financial circumstances.

Northern Community Bank has provided low cost loans for thousands of people over the last four decades. During that time we have helped countless families build up substantial savings, building up a reputation for financial expertise, friendly advice, and honesty. One of the reasons people place so much trust in Northern Community Bank is the fact we don’t charge different rates of interest on loans based on a person’s credit score. So, if you are someone who has been struggling with bad credit you will not be penalised. Each application is also assessed individually by a person – not a computer. We look at affordability, income and expenditure and only lend amounts we are confident you can pay back.

How else can Northern Community Bank help with low cost loans

Northern Community Bank can save you hundreds of pounds in comparison to payday lenders. And if you don’t believe us, well, you’ve got nothing to lose. Literally.

We completely understand that even looking at low cost loans can be a little daunting, especially if you happen to be a first time applicant. To remove all pressure from the application process we offer a no strings attached free loan quote. This affords people the time and space to make an informed decision on their own terms, one they’re fully comfortable with. Combine this with no setup fees or early settlement penalties, along with a free bereavement fund benefit on savings and loans, and it’s easy to see why our Northern Community Bank family continues to grow every year.

So, let’s talk about that holiday.

Tips to teach your kids good money habits

February 16, 2022 2:56 pm Leave a Comment

Looking up tips to teach your kids good money habits may not sound like a fun way to spend an hour or two. But teaching our children about the benefits of saving is an invaluable early life lesson. It’s up there with ‘The Importance of Good Manners’, ‘Why You Shouldn’t Talk To Strangers’ and ‘How Eating All Your Greens Will Make You Big and Strong’.

Explaining how saving works to children during their growing years allows them to develop a greater understanding of money and may help them avoid financial issues in future. And yes, it can actually be fun.

Top tips to teach your kids good money habits

Let your child watch you save. There’s no better way of teaching your little ones the value of saving than practising what you preach. Children look up to their parents, especially in those early years. If they see you saving, then they will want to save, too. Putting money in a clear savings jar or a piggy bank provides a motivating visual aid. Telling them how much you love saving should help stimulate similar thoughts.
Set a saving challenge. Do you ever remember saving for a new game or toy when you were younger? How good did it feel when you reached that target? Setting your children little goals like this will give them a feeling of accomplishment, and responsibility. You can also tie it in with a lesson in budgeting. If the pair of trainers they want cost £100, help them work out how much, and for how long, they will need to save before they can afford them. If the item they’re after is particularly expensive, maybe ask them to save half the value while you contribute the remaining 50%.
Encourage them to earn their own money. It can be tempting to buy your children everything they want, whenever they want. However, this is never going to teach them the value of money. Have them earn their pocket money by carrying out chores around the house. This will help develop an appreciation for money, and should prevent them from wanting to just spend, spend, spend. Likewise, when they come shopping with you, explain the difference between various prices and why buying one cheaper item sometimes makes more sense.
Teach them their money can grow. Money may not grow on trees, but it can certainly grow in a savings account. Teach your children all about the benefits of having their money in a secure account like our Young Savers account. This account has provided a healthy return year on year.
Allow them to learn from their mistakes. We’ve all been guilty of overspending at some point in our lives. So, if you see a youngster about to make a costly error with money there can be a real temptation to step in. However, making mistakes is often a good thing because it’s how we learn not to make them again. Just make sure you’re there to offer support and guidance afterwards.
Have open conversations about money. Some parents may find the topic of money a difficult one to address. It doesn’t need to be. Improving money knowledge means your child will become more confident and comfortable around money. Be open and engaging on the subject, and answer any questions they have honestly and thoroughly. The earlier you start these conversations, the quicker they’ll begin to develop healthy money habits.

Open a Northern Community Bank Young Savers account

All these tips to teach your kids good money habits make for a fantastic place to start when introducing them to the benefits of saving. If you’re wanting to go one step further, why not open up a Northern Community Bank Young Savers account for them as well?

These can be opened by a parent or guardian, and are a superb way of taking money management lessons to the next level. The young account holder is not in control of the account until they turn 18. But by regularly making deposits, and watching their savings grow, they will be developing good habits around money. Plus there’s the added bonus of having a nice little nest egg when they reach adulthood.

The adult who opens the account can use the Northern Community Bank App to manage the account.

Contact our friendly team today to open an account for your little ones online or visit one of our branches. Don’t forget to dig out and bring along their birth certificate too!

We’re never too old to learn something new either. How we share the profits we make, low cost loans, annual percentage rates; the world of money can be a confusing place. Check out our money matters page or speak to a member of our team today if you have any questions relating to money, savings or loans.

How to boost credit score

January 25, 2022 10:38 am Leave a Comment

Those five little words – ‘How to boost credit score’ – can make such a huge difference to our lives.

A poor credit report doesn’t just potentially affect your chances of getting a mortgage, a loan or credit card these days. It can also impact your mobile phone contract, car insurance, bank accounts, and it will invariably lead to you being offered higher interest rates. The consequences are wide-ranging and the strain they place upon our financial circumstances can be demoralising as well as damaging. What we need to remember though is a poor credit score can happen to anyone, at any stage of their life. And no matter how frustrating it may be, there are ways of improving it.

Here’s all you need to know about how to boost credit score ratings, and what Northern Community Bank can do to help.

Tips on how to boost credit score

Reduce your credit utilisation. Your credit utilisation ratio is a measure of how much available credit you are using. For example, if you have a credit card limit of £10,000 and the balance is £6,000, that is a rate of 60%. You should aim to keep this below 30% through not overspending and ensuring credit card balances are paid off.
Keep old accounts open. Closing down old credit cards while you have a balance on other ones could increase your credit utilisation ratio.
Limit requests for new credit. When applying for a credit card, loan or mortgage, a lender will complete a comprehensive review of your credit history in order to determine how much of a risk you pose. This is called a hard inquiry. A single hard search is unlikely to have an adverse affect on your credit score. However, a number of them in a short period of time can be problematic.
Review your credit file, for free by clicking here, to check for errors. When doing this make sure to check using soft inquiries as this will not affect your credit score.
Have any inaccurate things removed. Filling a dispute – for example, over a late payment – can have a big impact on your credit score. Whether it goes up or down though will depend on the outcome of the dispute. Late payments will generally stay on your report for seven years.
Deal with your delinquencies. Being late by more than one month is considered delinquent. A lender may not report a delinquent account to a credit agency until two or more payments are missed, so if you do miss one try your best to come up with an arrangement as soon as possible.
Prove where you live. Registering to vote will help confirm to lenders your name and address, which in turn should increase your credit score. Also, bear in mind that moving home regularly can give lenders the impression you are struggling with paying rent.
Make repayments on time. Payment history is one of the biggest determining factors in calculating a person’s credit score. Avoiding late payments is therefore crucial if we’re to keep our score high and healthy. This can be easier said than done, which is why, if you are struggling, you should contact Northern Community Bank.

Can I still get a loan with bad credit?

Getting a loan with bad credit is possible, but it’s often a lot more challenging and far more expensive.

As a not-for-profit organisation, Northern Community Bank operates a much fairer model when compared to other lenders; starting with the fact we don’t judge a person solely by their credit score. Although we do check credit history, each application is assessed individually by a person – not a computer – who looks at affordability, income and expenditure. We only lend amounts we are confident you can afford to pay back, and we also don’t charge differing rates of interest on loans based on your credit score.

Northern Community Bank is committed to offering products and services that help account holders manage their finances while building up a history of good money management. All loans taken are reported to the credit agency Experian, which means as long as an account holder makes their payments on time their credit rating will improve.

Make Christmas savings habits that last this year

January 7, 2022 12:01 pm Leave a Comment

When you look back over the festive period, what do you wish you had had more of? Turkey? Presents? Christmas savings?

We know just how expensive Christmas can be. And you know what? Christmas 2022 is probably going to be just as hard on the purse strings for many of us. According to the Bank of England, a typical UK household spends over £700 more in December compared to other months. Hardly a surprise when you think about the mountain of gifts, food, and drink. We wouldn’t have it any other way though. Festive celebrations with our family and friends are worth every penny, but we need to be sure we can afford the outgoings.

Having Christmas savings in place means you can enjoy all the festivities without worrying about checking your bank balance every five minutes.

What are Northern Community Bank Christmas savings?

Thinking about Christmas savings probably isn’t all that close to the top of your agenda right now. If you’re anything like us, working out how you’re going to shed all these extra pounds is most likely priority number one, isn’t it? And yet there’s no time like the present to start preparing for Christmas 2022.

Save £10 a week from today, and you’ll have more than £480 to spend on whatever it is your heart desires come the end of the year. The best way to begin building up your little nest egg is through our Christmas Club account. This enables you to save throughout the year but only allows withdrawals to be made during November and December, meaning Christmas savings really are just for Christmas.

Another Christmas Club account perk is the fact your funds are available to spend wherever you like, a big advantage when compared to a lot of other accounts or schemes where Christmas savings are restricted to certain shops.

When can I join Northern Community Bank’s Christmas Club?

January, February, July. You can join the Northern Community Bank Christmas Club whenever you wish. Obviously, the sooner you start the better. Last year’s Christmas Club account totalled £273,000, with more than 1,000 account holders using us to help get their Christmas finances under control.

You can save as little or as much as you like as well – make one of payments, regular deposits or save a proportion of any benefits you are in receipt of, such as Child Benefit. You’ll be amazed how quickly these savings build up.

Also, all your Christmas savings – up to £120,000 – are protected by the FSCS as well being covered by a free bereavement fund benefit, which means that in the event of your untimely death all your shares would be given, with the fund amount, to the person you have nominated.

Speak to a member of the Northern Community Bank team today on 01282 691333, and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Christmas savings. Just don’t ask us how the New Year diet is going.

Make Christmas savings this year

December 2, 2021 3:13 pm Leave a Comment

How to make savings this Christmas – Make a list and check it twice

It does not matter that it occurs at the same time every year, Christmas seems to catch many of us out every year. Even for those that are super-prepped you can guarantee something ends up costing more than they expected or items go un-used. This is hardly surprising when according to the Bank Of England the average Christmas spend is over £700 per person.

After discussing how to save money at Christmas in the branch with account holders and Northern Community Bank staff we’ve created a list, like a 7 years old’s list for Santa, it is quite long however we guarantee a number of these will save you money running up to the festive period

Budget – always at the top of any money related list but budgeting for Christmas is vital if you want to control your spending. Traditional pen and paper or modern phone apps, it does not matter, getting it down in advance will help. Decide how much money you have available or can save before deciding who you have to buy for, how much to spend on presents and whether you can afford the nights out you’re invited to. We will have to see if this year’s Christmas works do or nights out actually happen…
Make a list and check it twice — simple. Cut down the present list and prioritise
Start shopping early — if you’ve missed the boat this year then set a reminder in your phone for summer 2021. Have a spot in the house where you store items, a bottom cupboard or a secure spot in the (dry) attic. Heck some start buying in January when the sales start!
Search for the cheapest deals, vouchers or price match — search online then check whether the high street will price match. Use an incognito or private browser, so you are not charged more by online retailers who recognise that you’ve previously searched for a specific item.
Online price trackers – There are many, with everyone’s favourite search engine Google provide a reliable service. A number of others allow you to compare well known website; ShopSavvy, Scanlife, Honey App, Keepa and CamelCamelCamel
Don’t go Christmas shopping with you children, friends or family — Sounds boring but unless they are a good influence (let’s be honest we mean penny pinching influence) they’re best left at home
Online marketplaces are great places to find new or used items — Ebay, Facebook market place and Gumtree
Section 75 laws — If the items you purchase are over £100 then pay with a credit card. Section 75 means the credit card company should take some responsibility if things go wrong with your purchase.
Unused Vouchers? Have you got a pretty box with unused store voucher cards that you didn’t get around to spending in time or worst still…the store doesn’t exist anymore
Discourage children from watching every Christmas advert going — hard but doable with some distraction. The Argos catalogue used to be the big worry, 700 pages with 3000 circled items for Santa, now it’s the sneaky adverts on TV
IOU or BWYL — instead of wasting cash on a guess, if you think your partner or family would take a “Buy What You Like” credit note, it could result in them getting what they want and you not wasting cash, they might also get the item cheaper in the sales….let’s be honest you’re going to probably buy the other items they really want at some point in the year
Discount and Pound shops — There is nothing wrong with cheap stocking filler. Toiletries and essentials are also options for stocking fillers, they also reduce the need to buy in the difficult ‘skint’ months after Christmas; we did say we were looking at ways to help you save money
Make your own decorations — we know we know, we’ve all walked into a friend’s house and given the home-made snow angel with one wing a second glance but children love getting involved
Do you buy decorations every year and then find you already have something similar? You’re not alone, have a little look at your stocks before buying new items. Don’t bother getting the tree out covered in fake snow…
Real or artificial tree — this is your preference but buying a real tree to decorate your carpet each festive season is not the greatest way to keep cost down
Food waste — think back to last year and every other year you’ve been in charge of the Christmas shop….did you need all that food? Did you throw certain items away….did only one person eat a certain item at your Christmas feast
Secret Santa — It is not just for work places. It can work with circles of friends and your extended family
Gift a charity donation or agree not to buy for family or colleagues
Think twice about a store card — the interest rates are not always favourable!
Cashback and using Store Loyalty points you’ve built up — Northern Community Bank’s exclusive Engage Debit Card has a wide range of cashback rewards and a handy calculator to find out what rewards your purchases could earn found here. If you’ve built up loyalty point from purchase throughout the year with stores or companies, now may be the time to cash in
Not used it since last Christmas? Maybe it was not a must have item….move it on and make some money back
Budget, plan for next year – re-read the list!

We could not write a list on Christmas savings without mentioning the free Northern Community Bank Christmas Savings Account. Open at any point during the year, save as little or as much as you like throughout the year but only withdraw from the 1st of November to 31st December. Savings put away especially for the festive period!

This year over £270,000 has been saved by people in your community, that is a real helpful hand during the most expensive time of the year. If you’ve not opened one yet…contact a friendly member of staff on our Nivo app and do it today!

Founder members of Colne & District Community Bank, Pendle MP and guests celebrate Colne branch opening

November 16, 2021 4:15 pm Leave a Comment

Colne & District Community Bank founder member David Penney and treasurer Karen Pashley officially opened the new Northern Community Bank Colne branch and gave speeches alongside Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson. Assembled guests were welcomed by Northern Community Bank President Gerard Spain, who along with other dignitaries, board members and staff celebrated the growth of the community bank and toasted the future at the newly built Peter Birtwistle House branch.

Gerard provided a timeline of the community bank’s development and explained how the branch located at 25 Market Street will provide a headquarters for the expanding digital team, running the 24/7 online accounts and secure Nivo app but it will also provide a hub in the centre of the community for account holders to visit

“Welcome to this wonderful new branch, especially to Colne Community Bank’s founder members David and Ann-Marie. As a numbers-man I look to the figures that chart our development, it’s amazing to look back that when we opened the Christchurch branch in 2004, our first branch away from St George’s where we started Nelson Credit Union in 1982 – we held £1m in assets. We purchased our first branch in Nelson 2010 and hit £2m in assets. After the merger with Burnley Area Credit Union we opened the Calico Burnley branch in 2013 – hitting £3m in assets. 5 years later we were really proud to purchase, renovate and open the St James’s St Burnley branch in 2018 – with assets totaling £7m. As we open this much needed bigger branch today, Northern Community Bank has £15m in assets which is phenomenal!”

Northern Community Bank is fortunate to still have a number of founder members of the Colne & District Community Bank on its current Board of Directors. David Penny shared the history of the credit union in Colne and expressed with humour how fantastic it is that the community bank continues to develop in order to benefit the community

“We started the Colne Community Bank as a working group in 1996, it took almost 3 years to get from an idea to an actual community bank. We operated in any space that would have us, from the basement of TSB banks, to the unsuitable Holker Business Centre on the edge of the town and stints in places such as the charity Open Door. The drive was there but we were unsustainable and grateful in 2005 when Nelson Community Bank agreed to a merger. The way this credit union has developed is astonishing; the number of members, the savings we hold and loans, now serving not just Pendle and Burnley but many places across East Lancashire and now Cumbria. The board and staff provide a professional service to the community”

Karen Pashley, current Northern Community Bank board member, passionately outlined her involvement with the community bank, stepping into replace the former Colne & District Community Bank treasurer just as the organsiation was given permission to operate in 1999 and highlighted the qualities that have allowed Northern Community Bank to grow

“I’m really proud to be part of this organisation, this Community Bank tries. When the board are presented with challenges or issues – we try to forge the best path, we discuss and work through them. The management and staff team regularly encounter fresh challenges – and they try, and try to solve them and improve the Community Bank. The reason we try, and try, is because we want the best for the members and the communities we serve. I am proud of this organisation because it never sits back, happy at the position we are in but tries to move forward. It was pleasing when Northern Community Bank opened the Shackleton Hall branch, it was a commitment to the town and now to open in a prominent position is excellent.”

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson delivered the final speech of the evening before a toast was raised

“It is great that the Community Bank is the anchor tenant at this prominent high street development. I joined this credit union 11 years ago when I became the MP for Pendle. I have been invited a number of times to Northern Community Bank events over those years and it is excellent to hear every time how the credit union has grown or reached new milestones. It is especially pleasing that this Community Bank is based in the constituency that I represent.”

Credit Union Christmas Loans are the perfect festive gift

November 3, 2021 3:42 pm Leave a Comment

If you’re still on the hunt for that perfect stocking filler, Credit Union Christmas Loans could be just what you’re looking for.

We’re not saying they’ll tickle your tastebuds more than a Terry’s Chocolate Orange, but they will leave a far better taste in your mouth than some of the other loans out there. Now, we know talking about loans isn’t exactly the most exciting of topics in the run up to December 25th. But they could well be the difference between a stress-free festive season or one where your calculator ends up busier than an elf on Christmas Eve.

It’s no secret that Christmas’ are costing more and more. It wasn’t that long ago that children were happy with a yo-yo, the annual Beano, and maybe a bicycle. Now it’s PlayStation 5s, Xboxes, iPhones, iPads, the latest North Face jacket. The list is endless, and increasingly expensive…and that’s before we start buying gifts for all our other loved ones.

Thankfully, Credit Union Christmas Loans are renowned for helping spread out these costs, allowing you to concentrate on what matters most this December. Here’s all you need to know.

Are you worried about hefty New Year loan repayments?

One of the scariest things about applying for a loan is working out whether or not you can afford the repayments. There’s not much point in spreading out all that festive spend, if you’re then going to spend 2022 consumed with worry desperately trying to make each monthly repayment. When it comes to Credit Union Christmas loans – or any of our loans for that matter – we tailor repayments to suit your financial circumstances. This way you not only know how much you have to pay, and when you have to pay it; you know you can pay it.

Loan repayments can be made by standing order or a direct benefit payment such as Child Benefit, Universal Credit or Tax Credits. And don’t worry if time is of the essence – yes, we’re looking at those who will be leaving their Christmas shopping right up until the last minute – loan decisions are generally made within 24 hours. And once signed, the money will be in your account that same day.

Saving Christmas this year, saving for Christmas next year

We want Christmas Credit Union loans to be just for Christmas, not for life. That’s why we are always encouraging our account holders to save.

Our £500 Family Loan & Saving Scheme, for instance allows you to use your child benefits to make repayments, while saving deposits. Affordability is assessed without need for a credit check, too.

Our free-to-open Christmas Savings Account is another option worth considering. This account enables you to save throughout the year with withdrawals only permitted during November and December, meaning that Christmas savings really are just for the Christmas period. This year, account holders saved a staggering £273,000, which equates to some rather plump turkeys being bought in the next few weeks.

If you have any questions around Credit Union Christmas loans, savings accounts, or any other financial matters, give us a call on 01282 691333.

How Christmas loans online can ease your financial festive burden

November 1, 2021 1:57 pm Leave a Comment

Applying for Christmas loans online could not be easier at Northern Community Bank.

Come on then, own up.

Who’s close to pulling out the decoration box? Dusting off the old Christmas jumper? Eagerly awaiting the first bars of ‘Fairytale of New York’ blaring out from their radio? We know it’s fast approaching the most wonderful time of the year.

We’ve even started sizing up advent calendars. But we also know this means we’re fast approaching the most stressful time of the year for a lot of families. Northern Community Bank loves Christmas. We also love helping people, and one of the ways we do that is by taking the stress out of a festive period wrapped up in financial pressure. It’s been a tough 18 months for so many people, and last Christmas was hardly the most social of celebrations. That means we have to make this December 25th (and the few days either side, of course) one that will live long in the memory…without leaving us long in debt. That’s where Northern Community Bank’s Christmas loans online come in.

Northern Community Bank wants to help you spread the cost of Christmas

In a perfect world – imagine Christmas dinner every day – we would prefer our account holders to save throughout the year so they don’t even have to consider applying for a loan to cover festive expense. And many do, through our free-to-open Christmas Savings Account.

That being said, even the best of planners, yes, even those who start Christmas shopping in July, can end up hurtling towards December desperately trying to rein in the costs. This has only been compounded by a rising cost of living, and means more people than ever are having to take real care of their money this winter. Christmas loans online can help you spread the cost of Christmas, easing the pressure so you’re free to worry about things like who’s going to cook the turkey, or wrap all the presents.

Northern Community Bank offers small and larger loans to suit all requirements, and there’s no need to visit a branch – not that we wouldn’t love to see you. The whole Christmas loans online process can be carried out at home, either through our Online Application Area or via the secure Nivo app.

Loan repayments can be made by standing order or a direct benefit payment such as Child Benefit, Universal Credit or Tax Credits etc. And with no early payment penalty fees to worry about, you can pay off your loan, and start saving for next Christmas, whenever you wish.

Speak to our friendly team about Christmas loans online

We understand that lots of our neighbours within the community simply do not like visiting financial institutes in person. This is why we’re available for a friendly chat on the phone or via our different online channels. If you do have a question about Christmas loans online why not try the Nivo App?

Similar to WhatsApp, it’s a great way to discuss borrowing options with our highly trained team. And with four decades of experience to our name, we’re confident we’ll be able to answer any queries you may have.

If you’re searching for a payday loans direct lender there’s a cheaper alternative

October 26, 2021 10:30 am Leave a Comment

Times are hard at the minute. If you’re searching for a payday loans direct lender there’s a cheaper alternative.

Turn on the news and it won’t be long before you’re greeted with headlines like ‘Families set for winter of discontent as benefit cuts and tax hikes take hold’ or ‘Soaring energy prices threaten to spark cost of living crisis’.

Eating or heating should never be a decision a person has to make. But with more than 12,000 people in Burnley alone set to lose their £20 a week Universal Credit Covid uplift – combined with ever rising inflation – it’s a heartbreaking choice that is becoming more common in the communities we serve.

It’s one of the reasons why loans are so important to deal with the peaks and troughs of expenditure. They offer people a quick and convenient way to access money. What’s just as important though..is where people source these loans from.

What’s the difference between a payday loans broker and a payday loans direct lender?

Simply put, a loan broker is an individual or business that helps people find loans. Their job is to help borrowers navigate the complex payday loans industry and find a loan that fits their circumstances.

A payday loans direct lender, on the other hand, will offer you the loans themselves. With direct lenders there’s no middle man, so you know exactly who you are dealing with from the outset. On top of that, direct lender loans are quicker, and you won’t have any broker fees to factor in.

Northern Community Bank is a direct lender, but not of payday loans.

Payday loans go hand-in-hand with high interest rates as they target people who don’t have access to other more affordable sources of credit.

That goes against everything we stand for at Northern Community Bank.

We’re here to provide affordable finance to local people who need it. We understand people have had issues with bad credit in the past. However, by carefully assessing each applicant’s personal circumstance, we make loan decisions on affordability – not just credit scores – and tailor repayments to suit them.

Northern Community Bank will always go that extra mile

We understand how unforeseen costs can slowly creep up on a household. Car repairs, a broken down washing machine, that dreaded bill from out of nowhere. With the cost of living only heading in one direction, these unexpected financial expenses now bring with them more pressure than ever before for many families.

That’s why Northern Community Bank is here to help you, along with thousands of other local account holders, afford the things that you need. Apply online and have a decision within 24 working hours. There are no set-up or early settlement fees, and our team is always available to answer any questions you may have on the whole loan process.

So don’t hesitate to give us a ring on 01282 691333.

We celebrate Lynne’s 10 years at Northern Community Bank

October 6, 2021 11:56 am Leave a Comment

Congratulations to Lynne, Northern Community Bank’s Senior Member Services Officer based in Burnley, on 10 years of excellent service to savers and borrowers from the local communities. Lynne is a very popular member of staff who has worked across the Burnley and Pendle area for the credit union.

Only recognising 10 years at Northern Community Bank would be a disservice to Lynne, as she was a volunteer at the community bank for many years prior working full time. In 2002 Lynne volunteered at St George’s where Northern Community Bank was formed in 1982. With the help of another volunteer Lynne went on to start a collection point at Marsden Community Centre. During the time Lynne and our CEO Kathryn would regularly visit neighbourhoods across the community to introduce the benefits of saving and borrowing from a community bank. Lynne was driven to promote the community bank as they constantly heard the same message on the doorstep “oh we borrow from Provident”. Lynne then joined the team full time in 2011 and worked at the Nelson branch.

When Northern Community Bank merged with Burnley Area Community Bank in 2013, Lynne was tasked with opening and managing the newly formed branch based at Calico Homes in Burnley. The branch was a success and enabled the community bank to grow in the town. Lynne and the staff skilfully operated two different systems in branch, holding the account details of Pendle and Burnley members separately until the merger was completed.

Whilst there 1200 local residents from the Burnley community opened savings accounts. Northern Community Bank also welcomed 80 junior account holders, which helped start young people from our community on the right financial path towards saving and money management. The branch issued over £2.1million in affordable loans to the community.

In 2018 Northern Community Bank purchased and renovated the St James’s Street branch, located on the high street, amongst the banks and well-known department stores. Again Lynne was asked to manage the relocation and settled account holders into the new premises. Since then Northern Community Bank have expanded to cover more communities across Lancashire and now into Cumbria. Lynne and the Burnley team have often been a first ‘port of call’ for these members – where they are warmly received.

From all your colleagues and thousands of account holders – congratulations and thank you!

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