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  1. Looking for Payroll loans near me? Northern Community Bank’s £750 Payroll Plus Loan is here to help!

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    Managing your finances can sometimes feel like a juggling act—unexpected expenses crop up, and payday can seem far away. If you’re searching for “payroll loans near me,” then look no further. Northern Community Bank’s exclusive £750 Payroll Plus Loan is designed to provide quick access to funds with hassle-free repayments, deducted directly from your wages.

    What is the £750 Payroll Plus Loan?

    The £750 Payroll Plus Loan is a simple and convenient way for employees of our Payroll Partners to borrow money without the stress of complicated application processes or hidden fees. With automatic repayments through payroll deduction, you never have to worry about missing a payment.

    Why choose Northern Community Bank’s £750 Payroll Loan?
    • Fast access to funds – Our straightforward application process ensures a speedy decision, usually within 48 working hours.
    • No credit check – We assess affordability, but there are no credit checks, making it an accessible option for many.
    • Easy repayment – Repay directly through your wages, so there’s no need to set up standing orders or worry about due dates.
    • Fixed monthly repayments – Enjoy predictable payments, making budgeting easier.
    • No hidden fees – Transparent terms, no extra charges, and no early repayment penalties.
    •  Save while you borrow – A portion of your repayments goes into a savings account, helping you build financial security.
    Save as you borrow – a unique feature!

    Unlike traditional loans, the £750 Payroll Plus Loan includes a built-in savings element. As you repay your loan, £10 per month (or £3 per week) is automatically placed into a dedicated savings account. By the time your loan is fully repaid, you’ll have built up a small savings pot—perfect for unexpected costs, holidays, or even Christmas shopping!

    How it works:
    1. Check your eligibility – You must be an employee at one of Northern Community Bank’s Payroll Partners for at least one month.
    2. Apply online – Complete a quick and simple application form online or via the Northern Community Bank app.
    3. Get approved – Once approved, your £750 loan is deposited into your chosen bank account the same day.
    4. Automatic repayments – Repayments are deducted from your wages, so you never have to think about making manual payments. Northern Community Bank arrange the deduction with your payroll department but importantly only you and Northern Community Bank have access to your account.
    5. Manage your loan & savings – Track your balance and payment history via the Northern Community Bank online banking portal or app.
    Why Payroll deduction loans make sense

    Payroll deduction loans are a great way to manage borrowing without the hassle of direct debits or missed payments. Because repayments come straight from your wages, you can rest assured that your loan is being paid off consistently and on time. Plus, with the added benefit of building savings while you borrow, you’re setting yourself up for a stronger financial future.

    If you’ve been searching for “payroll loans near me”, then Northern Community Bank’s £750 Payroll Plus Loan offers a simple, transparent, and stress-free solution. Ready to apply? Check if your employer is one of our Payroll Partners and start your application today!

     

     

  2. Plan ahead with long-term payday loans

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    It can be a little bit confusing – the phrase ‘long-term payday loans’.
    Payday loans are typically short-term, high-interest loans designed to be repaid quickly – usually by your next payday. While they can offer fast cash in a pinch, they often come with high costs and the risk of getting stuck in a cycle of debt.
    In finance, long-term usually has a more positive spin. It often means more manageable repayment plans, lower interest rates, and a longer time to pay off debt.

    So, how do long-term payday loans work? Well, for organisations, like Northern Community Bank, who prioritise responsible lending, they provide quick financial support when needed, while offering more manageable repayment terms. They focus on providing lower interest rates, extended repayment schedules, and financial education to help borrowers avoid falling into debt cycles.
    This approach allows people to meet short-term needs while also promoting long-term financial stability.

    How could long-term payday loans help me?

    Unforeseen costs, like a broken washing machine or an expensive MOT, can catch anyone off guard. If payday isn’t just around the corner, even small costs can feel overwhelming. 
    In the past, people looking for a quick fix – especially those with bad credit – might have turned to payday lenders, thinking they had no other options. But with Northern Community Bank’s long-term payday loans, you can get the money you need now, with the reassurance of more manageable repayment terms and no worry about falling into financial strain.

    We know that a less-than-perfect credit history shouldn’t define your future. That’s why we look at the bigger picture, assessing each applicant’s personal circumstances rather than just their credit score. Our loan decisions are based on what’s affordable for you, with tailored repayments to match your situation. Short-term fix, long -term solution.
    On top of this, every decision is made by real people – not computers. Which means we take the time to fully understand your financial circumstances before making a final call.
    You can borrow from as little as £150 up to £15,000, and the process couldn’t be simpler. Apply online, get a decision online, sign online. Once approved, the money is sent to your account via BACS the same day.

    Northern Community Bank is here for the long-term

    Unlike payday lenders, who often don’t stick around for long, Northern Community Bank is committed to offering ongoing support and financial solutions that help you now and in the future.
    We’ve been here for 43 years, doing our best to serve our account holders with trusted, reliable financial services. And we want to be here for the next 43 years (and beyond), continuing to provide stability, support, and financial growth for our community.
    Speak to our team today. Discover how our long-term payday loans can bring you relief, not just in the short-term, but for the future.

     

     

     

  3. If you’re looking for the best savings account for kids, think of your local Community Bank

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    It’s never too early to find the best savings account for kids.
    Teaching them to save from a young age helps build lifelong money skills like budgeting, patience, and understanding how savings grow.
    Even small steps – like setting aside part of their pocket money or birthday cash – can create strong saving habits.
    The right savings account makes it easier for kids to develop good financial habits. It helps them set goals, make smart spending choices, and see first-hand how their money can grow – all valuable lessons that set them up for future success.

    7 tips to help your little ones create better saving habits
    1. Lead by example. Our children learn by watching us. Letting your child see you save shows them how money works and encourages good habits early on. When they see you setting goals and making smart choices, they’re more likely to do the same.
    2. Set saving challenge goals. Watching savings grow is exciting, but you can make saving even more fun by turning it into a little game. Whether it’s for a toy, a fun activity, or a special treat, setting clear goals keeps kids motivated. Hitting those goals feels great and shows them the rewards of saving.
    3. Encourage them to earn their own money. Whether it’s doing the dishes, washing the car, or taking on small tasks, earning money gives kids a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
    4. Try to encourage your child to budget. Budgeting is an important part of learning about money because it helps youngsters understand how to manage what they have. Help them divide their money into categories like saving, spending, and sharing. This simple step shows them how to balance enjoying their money now and saving for the future.
    5. Let them learn from their mistakes. Mistakes happen, and that’s ok – it’s how we learn! If they spend their savings too quickly or make a poor decision, it’s a chance to talk about what went wrong and how to make better choices next time.
    6. Encourage them to wait for the things they want. Help them learn that saving up for something special is worth it. It teaches patience and shows that good things come to those who wait.
    7. Open a young savers account. A young savers account is a great way to start kids on their saving journey. Northern Community Bank’s Young Savers Account can be opened by a family member or carer, with online access available to check balances and download statements. While withdrawals can’t be made online, anyone can deposit into the account, making it easy to grow their savings.
    Talk to us today about the best savings accounts for kids

    From the smallest acorns grow the mightiest oaks. Starting your child on a savings journey means that by the time they turn 18 or 21, they could have enough set aside for a car or even a trip around the world. More importantly, they’ll understand the true value of money.
    Speak to Northern Community Bank today and start building their financial future.

     

     

  4. £1.1m returned to account holders at Northern Community Bank’s 43rd AGM in 2025

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    Northern Community Bank President Gerard Spain announced that borrowers would be rewarded with a loan interest rebate of 17%, and savers would benefit on a 2.75% dividend on all savings up from 2.5% the previous year totalling £1.1m at Annual General Meeting (AGM).

    You can find out more about the share of the profits and loan interest rebate here

    On Friday 7th February, account holders gathered for Northern Community Bank’s 43rd AGM, which was held at Burnley Football Club’s 1882 lounge. The hybrid event saw over 70 people attend in person and online, and for the first time, over 1400 account holders watched the AGM via the app.

    With a significant growth in account holders from 14,500 to 16,500, Northern Community Bank continues to thrive and expand its reach within the community

    Out of the 2000 growth in account holders that we’ve had over the last year, there are 833 from Cumbria, and 329 from Lancaster and Morecambe. The growth in that area has been phenomenal

    Our financial report showed robust growth and stability for the Community Bank. The loan book over the last 12 months has grown 25% from £11.5 million to £14.4million. The assets of the Community Banks have grown 9%, which seems such a phenomenal figure, from £19.2 million up to £20.9 million.

    Mark Heaton, Auditor from KM Accountants, provided insights into the financial operations of Northern Community Bank

    “In 2023 there was £24 million coming in and going out in shares and loan repayments, and that has increased to £28 million this year. It’s a significant amount of money, and a huge number of transactions that need to be monitored on a day-to-day basis.”

    Those who attended the AGM also heard how Northern Community Bank have made a £20,000 community donation towards children’s financial education within primary schools across the Lancashire and Cumbria. Member Service Officer, Claire Dodd explained more about the project

    “I had an idea that is fairly close to my heart with being a mum, something to do with children and financial education, as I feel children and some adults’ financial knowledge isn’t where it should be. I really wanted to help children from a young age have a real understanding of finance to set them up on their journey of life.”

    Claire continued to outline the project

    “I am presenting my idea to help primary school children have a start on financial education. Each week a different child is selected to take home the book suitcase to read with their parents. This is separate to the normal weekly books. In the suitcase we have a book all about financial education for the appropriate age, that has been written by the Dragons Den Star Deborah Meaden, a cuddly squirrel named Sammy, as we all need to squirrel those pennies away, an instruction sheet, a book for the children to record what they have learnt and some chocolate coins, which are obviously linked to finances.”

    Northern Community Bank were also saddened to announce the retirement of a long-standing Board member Mag Hillary. Speaking fondly of Mag’s involvement and dedication to the Community Bank, President Gerard Spain said of Mag

    “Her mother and father, Lou and Mary Gildea, were obviously the founders of the Community Bank, whose brainchild it was right from the start. Over the years, Mag has held various positions. She was a long-term volunteer right at the start, then had a little bit of a gap and came back as a director and served on the Board for a number of years. And her involvement has always been really valued because of the history and the knowledge that she has got of the Community Bank over the years.”

    Northern Community Bank were also pleased to welcome guest speaker Councillor Mark Fryer, who is the leader of Cumberland Council to the AGM. Councillor Fryer, who is an account holder and advocate for Community Banks, spoke about his experience of joining a Community Bank when it was first set up in Workington in Cumbria

    “When the Community Bank was set up in Workington, I was one of the first to become a member. We knew right from the outset it was about people having confidence in in the organisation. As staff members, you should understand the confidence that the people out there have in you.”

    Northern Community Bank's President Gerard Spain, with CEO Kathryn Fogg, Burnley Mayor and Mayoress and Councillor Mark Fryer

    Speaking of the Northern Community Bank merger with Affinity credit union back in 2021, Councillor Fryer said

    “It is phenomenal what what’s happened. We went right across the whole of the county of Cumbria. Even then, we knew that we had to be in with a bigger organisation. We were devoid of real quality staff. That was a real issue for us before merging with Northern Community Bank.

    Councillor Fryer continued

    “I don’t think anybody should underestimate the power of the Community Bank. When you see the figures and the numbers that this organisation is producing on its balance sheet, it’s nothing short of incredible – millions and millions of pounds from a community of ordinary people who have got that idea of mutuality ingrained in their hearts is something quite special.”

    Mark described why he felt it was important to represent his community at Northern Community Bank’s 43rd AGM

    “I really looked forward to coming here today, I wanted to tell you how grateful I am, as a leader of the Council, that you’d help and guide the people in my community, do things in a way that that there wouldn’t they haven’t been able to do previously. All that work that you do, all those hours that you’re putting in for nothing. The labour of love – It’s a massive thanks, a massive thanks from me.”

  5. Access your account statements anytime and go paperless with Northern Community Bank

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    At Northern Community Bank, we’re always looking for ways to improve our services and make your life easier – while doing our bit for the environment too! That’s why we’re excited to have gone paperless for this year’s account statements.

    Gone are the days of waiting for the post or sifting through stacks of paperwork. You can now access your account statements at any time, from anywhere, with just a few clicks. Whether you’re checking your balance, or reviewing your transactions, everything is available in your online account for your convenience.

    Why are we going paperless?

    Not only does switching to digital statements help us reduce paper waste and lower our carbon footprint, but it also allows us to get information to you faster and more securely. With fewer printed statements, we’re contributing to a greener future – something we know many of our members care deeply about.

    And, of course, it’s one less thing for you to worry about. No more waiting for the post or keeping track of your paper statements. Everything is safe, secure, and available whenever you need it.

    How can you access your statements?

    It’s really simple! All you need to do is log in to your online account, and you’ll find all your statements under the ‘accounts’ tab.

    Do you have instructions for downloading your statements?

    We’ve created a handy guide to walk you through the process. The step-by-step instructions are available in our knowledge hub.

    Not only does going paperless help protect the planet, but it also ensures you can keep track of your account easily and securely at any time.

    Need any help?

    If you’re unsure about how to download your statements or need a bit of extra support, our friendly team is always on hand to help. Whether you give us a call or pop a message into the chat on the app, we’re happy to guide you through the process.

     

  6. Litter clean sweep – Cumberland Council’s new push to tidy up and team up!

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    Cumberland Council is rolling out an exciting new campaign to combat the littering issue that affects communities throughout the region. With over two million pieces of litter dropped across the UK every day, the problem has reached a critical level. Studies have shown that the presence of rubbish can encourage more littering. This can create an unsightly environment that diminishes community pride and impacts overall well-being.

    This bold initiative is not just about cleaning the streets; it’s about sparking a lasting change in behaviour. The Council aims to empower residents, community groups, and businesses to take control of their surroundings and make a tangible difference.

    To support these efforts, the campaign will offer practical resources such as litter pickers, hi-visibility vests for both adults and children, gloves, and refuse bags, alongside safety guidance to ensure effective and safe clean-up activities.

    What are the key elements of this campaign?

    One of the key elements of the initiative is the ‘Litter Champions’ programme. This programme will encourage community groups and businesses to organise litter picks, with the Council providing waste collection support afterward. Additionally, the Council is introducing a business adoption model, urging local businesses to take responsibility for the upkeep of nearby areas. This initiative ties in beautifully with corporate social responsibility and staff well-being programmes.

    The campaign also includes targeted clean-up events and action days. These events will be organised by community groups, social landlords, and businesses to assist residents in clearing their homes, backyards, and gardens, thereby reducing clutter and mitigating the risk of fly-tipping.

    Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient, and Connected Places, highlights the broader benefits of the initiative:

    “Litter picking is about more than just cleaning the streets; it’s an opportunity to engage with neighbours, stay active, and contribute positively to our community. By joining forces, we can create cleaner, healthier spaces and instil a sense of pride in our local area. This campaign is about fostering a caring community, not just tidying up.”

    “Through collaboration, cleanliness, and community engagement, we support residents’ well-being. These are core values of Cumberland Council’s Plan, where health and well-being are integral to everything we do.”

    How do I get involved?

    If you’d like to get involved or need more information, please email wasteos@cumberland.gov.uk or visit Cumberland Council’s website.

     

  7. Join over 2,600 account holders and start your Christmas savings journey today

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    Christmas savings? In January? Hear us out.
    Yes, the baubles are back in the box, yes, the festive season feels like a distant memory, and yes, the last thing you want to think about right now is Christmas.
    Before you know it, though, Christmas 2025 will be knocking on the door and when it does you want to welcome it with open arms – not the weight of financial worry hanging over your head.
    By starting saving for Christmas now, you’ll be giving yourself one of the greatest possible gifts you could ever unwrap – the gift of financial peace.
    And you won’t be alone. Join now, and you’ll be part of over 2,600 account holders who’ve already opened Christmas saving account, with more than £650,000 saved.

    Can a Northern Community Bank Christmas savings account make a real difference?

    Instead of just telling you how helpful it can be, here’s what a couple of our account holders have had to say:
    “I save for Christmas with the Christmas savings account so that takes out the stress of Christmas for me, knowing it’s coming straight from my child benefit,” said one.
    Another shared: “I save all year, and I can unlock my Christmas savings on the 1st November every year. I save £10 a week, and I have about £380 in there now, which is a big help with two kids at Christmas.”
    In the five years that the Northern Community Bank Family Loan has been running, close to half of our account holders have taken advantage of our Christmas savings account.
    You can save as much or as little as you like. Whether you make one-off payments, regular deposits, or save a proportion of any income you get, it’s entirely up to you.
    Save £3 per week, and you’ll have over £150 to spend at Christmas. Save as much as £15 a week, and you could have over £750 saved.
    Before you know it, you’ll have enough saved to cover all your Christmas expenses – from turkey and stuffing to stocking stuffers and everything in between.

    How is it different from other Christmas savings accounts?

    Unlike other Christmas savings schemes, you can spend the money you’ve saved wherever or on whatever you like – gifts, decorations, food, or even a winter getaway. The only catch? The Christmas saving account only allows withdrawals in November and December, meaning you won’t be tempted to spend it on a summer getaway.
    And rest assured, your money is safe with us. While other schemes might not offer the same protection, with Northern Community Bank, it’s safeguarded by the FSCS up to £120,000.
    For a little extra peace of mind, your savings are covered by a free bereavement fund benefit as well. So, in the event of your untimely passing, they will go to your nominated beneficiary.
    There’s no need to make a decision now, in February, or even in the summer. With our Christmas savings account, you can join at any time of the year – but remember, Christmas 2025 will be here before you know it.

    New account holders can open a Christmas Savings account here: Christmas Savings – Northern Community Bank

    Existing account holders can open a Christmas Savings account here: Open Additional Account – Northern Community Bank

     

     

  8. Don’t fall into the Buy Now, Pay Later trap

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    “Buy now, pay later” – four little words that can cause big problems if not handled with care.
    It’s becoming as much part of Christmas as presents and decorations. But what happens when the time comes to pay up in the new year?
    While it might feel like a lifesaver during the festive frenzy, these schemes can quickly turn into a source of financial stress if repayments start stacking up.
    And it’s not just at Christmas – buy now, pay later schemes can cause problems all year round.
    In this blog, we’ll dive into the good, the bad, and yes, even the ugly of “buy now, pay later”, helping you make informed decisions while steering well clear of unnecessary financial headaches.

    Buy now, pay later – the good
    • No immediate payment. No need to wait for payday! With buy now, pay later, you can grab essentials or treats on the spot, even if your bank balance isn’t quite there yet. Perfect for those “I need this now!” moments.

    • Interest-free periods. One of the biggest perks of buy now, pay later is the chance to spread your payments over weeks or months without spending a single penny extra – provided you stick to the plan.

    • Quick approval. Easy and fast to set up, often with minimal credit checks compared to traditional credit options.

    • Flexible budgeting. Buy now, pay later gives you more control over your cash flow, making it easier to handle unexpected costs or special occasions without throwing off your budget.

      Potential credit boost. In some cases, using buy now, pay later responsibly can help build or improve your credit score – especially if the provider reports to credit agencies.
    Buy now, pay later – the bad

    • Easy to overspend. Buy now, pay later makes purchases feel more affordable by breaking them down into smaller payments, but that can be a slippery slope. With no upfront cost, it’s tempting to load up on goods, gifts, gadgets, and guilty pleasures without fully considering the total amount you’re committing to.

    • Hidden costs. Miss a payment, and you could face late fees or even interest charges, wiping out the “interest-free” benefit that made the deal so appealing in the first place. Those extra costs can quickly snowball, turning what seemed like a manageable purchase into a much more expensive one.

    • Debt snowball. With multiple buy now, pay later plans, it’s easy to lose track of due dates and suddenly find yourself juggling more payments than expected. What started as small, manageable commitments can quickly snowball, leading to late fees, missed payments, and mounting financial stress.

    • Encourages impulse buying. Splitting payments can make purchases feel cheaper, increasing the temptation to shop impulsively.

    • Missed payments can hurt your credit file. With no upfront credit check, it might seem hassle-free – but missed payments could still impact your credit score if providers report your payment history to credit reference agencies.
    How Northern Community Bank can help

    We get it – when you’re caught up in the excitement of making a purchase, it’s easy to focus on the “now” and forget how quickly those payments can add up. But that’s when worry and anxiety can creep in, turning what seemed convenient into a financial burden.
    At Northern Community Bank, we’re here to support you – not just for the “now,” but for your future too. We only lend what you can afford, with repayments tailored to your unique circumstances.
    And if you are struggling to manage your finances or feeling overwhelmed by debt, we’re ready to help you get back on track. Our small loans start from just £150 and are designed to give you all the breathing room you need, without adding to your stress or creating further financial pressure.

    Speak to our team today and take the first step towards feeling more in control of your money.

     

     

     

     

  9. We can provide last-minute loans if you need one

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    Last-minute loans are about as common in December as mince pies and tangled fairy lights.
    The inevitable festive rush brings with it a host of seasonal challenges – not least, how are all these purchases going to fit into a budget?
    If your budget has gone out the Christmas advent window, then your only option may be last-minute loans.
    Choosing the best lender for last-minute loans, though, isn’t as straightforward as choosing a festive film to put on while you’re decorating the tree.
    Pick the wrong one, and you could be left with sky-high interest rates, hidden fees, and a hefty financial hangover that’ll last long after the Christmas decorations are down.
    At Northern Community Bank, we want the festive season, and the New Year, to be filled with joy, not financial worry. That’s why we offer affordable, straightforward loans designed to help you enjoy the holidays without the stress of hidden costs.

    Five reasons why Northern Community Bank should be your first choice for last-minute loans
    1. Avoid the Buy Now, Pay Later traps. Northern Community Bank’s affordable loans – we offer much lower rates than high-street lenders – help you steer clear of costly “Buy Now, Pay Later” schemes and payday loans, giving you peace of mind this festive season. Our £500 family loan and saving scheme is perfect for families trying to cover the cost of Christmas. It’s available to anyone in receipt of child benefit, and requires no credit checks – just an affordability assessment.
    2. Trusted by the community. Every year, hundreds of local people turn to Northern Community Bank to fund their Christmas celebrations, knowing they’re borrowing from a trusted, not-for-profit organisation.
    3. Convenient online application. There’s no need to visit a branch either. You can apply for your loan online through our secure Online Accounts Area or mobile app. Making it easy to access funds even at the last minute.
    4. Affordable and flexible. Our loans are based on your affordability, not your credit score, and come with competitive interest rates. Plus, with our Save As You Borrow Scheme, you’ll have a savings pot ready for next Christmas.
    5. Fast, reliable, and fair. Decisions are made by real people within 48 working hours. And if approved, payments can be made the same day via BACS.
    Can I speak to someone about last-minute loans?

    Taking out a loan, especially when you’re pressed for time, can feel overwhelming. If you have questions or need guidance, we’re here to help. At Northern Community Bank, we offer personalised support to ensure you fully understand your options and make the best decision for your financial situation.
    Don’t navigate the stress of last-minute loans alone – just pick up the phone and call 01282 691333, or chat to us through the Northern Community Bank app.

     

     

     

  10. Make Christmas magical with our affordable loans for Christmas shopping

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    If you’re on the hunt for loans for Christmas shopping at this point, it’s safe to say crunch time has arrived!
    Luckily, Northern Community Bank has your back, offering Christmas loans right up until Christmas Eve. So, those last-minute gifts you promised yourself wouldn’t be left until now (again!) can still make it under the tree.
    Don’t fret, you’re not ‘Loan Alone’. Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of local people make their festive season special with our affordable loans for Christmas shopping. And it’s not just about last-minute presents either. You won’t need us to tell you, Christmas often costs more than planned. No matter how much we save or cut back in the lead-up to the big day. The food, the parties, the snazzy new jumper for Christmas Jumper Day. One minute you’re singing All I Want For Christmas Is You without a care in the world, the next minute you’re running around like a headless turkey.
    If your festive budget could use a bit of boost, Northern Community Bank’s loans for Christmas shopping are here to help.

    Avoid a New Year (financial) hangover with Northern Community Bank

    The countdown to Christmas Day has begun – the temptation to apply for just any loan can be very real.
    Payday loans might look all nice and shiny, but once you unwrap them, the hidden costs and sky-high interest rates can leave you with more financial fear than festive cheer. The initial loan might help cover your Christmas costs, but the long-term strain can quickly overshadow the holiday joy.
    At Northern Community Bank, we offer affordable, straightforward loans designed to help you enjoy the season without the worry of an expensive New Year financial hangover.
    Our repayments are tailored to suit your unique circumstances, based on your affordability, so you won’t be overstretched. Borrow as little or as much as you need. And if you choose to repay early, there are no penalty fees.

    New Year, New You?

    How about making your first New Year’s resolution to be better prepared for Christmas 2025? While we’re always here with affordable loans for Christmas shopping, what if we told you there’s a way to save up stress-free?
    With our Save As You Borrow Scheme, you can build a money pot for next Christmas while improving your saving habits. At Northern Community Bank, anyone borrowing is encouraged to save alongside their loan repayments. These savings grow over time, acting as collateral for the loan, and can be accessed once the loan is fully repaid or the savings balance surpasses the loan amount.
    Want to be doubly sure you’re ready for next Christmas? Open a Northern Community Bank Christmas Savings account, where withdrawals are only available in November and December, guaranteeing your festive savings stay reserved for the season.
    And here’s the best part: there’s no fees, no deductions, and no restrictions on where you can spend your savings.
    New Year, New You, Same Trusted Northern Community Bank.

     

     

  11. Important Notice: Nelson branch to close permanently

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    We would like to share an important update regarding Northern Community Bank’s Nelson branch, where we have served the community for 14 years since it opened in 2010. After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision for the Nelson branch to close permanently as of Wednesday 18th December 2024.

    This choice was not made lightly, as we know how much this location has meant to many in our community. However, in recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a significant reduction in foot traffic as many of our members now prefer the convenience of online and mobile banking. All members of staff are keeping their jobs and will be moving between the two remaining branches.

    Commenting on the branch closure, Northern Community Bank Chairman, Gerard Spain, reflected on the important role the branches in Nelson have had in the progression of credit union, whilst looking forward

    “Northern Community Bank was formed at St George’s Church in Nelson in 1982, and the various Nelson branch locations have all played a part in the development of the self-sufficient and thriving credit union we are today. Although we say goodbye to the Manchester Road branch, we will continue to provide an excellent service both in-person and digitally to our 16,000 members from the two branches located on the vibrant high streets of Burnley and Colne.”

    How to transact with your account

    While we may be saying goodbye to this location, we remain deeply committed to supporting members with a range of accessible options:

    • Two Nearby Branches: You can visit our nearby branches on Colne’s Market Street and Burnley’s St. James’s Street, where our friendly team can assist you.
    • Telephone Support: Our team is available to answer any questions and provide assistance over the phone during our telephone opening hours on 01282 691333.
    • Digital Banking: Our mobile app and online members area offer you the flexibility to manage your accounts 24/7.

    Download for free from your app store

    Our app allows you to view your balances, make 24/7 instant withdrawals to your bank account, apply for loans, private messaging service, receive financial education, update your details and much more.

  12. Don’t let a loan shark ruin your Christmas.

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    Christmas is coming – a time of parties, presents, good food and family celebrations. But it can also bring stress, worry and financial pressure. Loan sharks recognise this, and it can be a time of year when they take advantage of the most vulnerable by pretending that they are helping out in a time of need.

    The England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is a national organisation, hosted by Birmingham City Council, which investigates and prosecute illegal lenders and supports borrowers. It is better known in communities as Stop Loan Sharks.

    This Christmas, it is warning people that however tempting that offer of a loan might be and however friendly someone might seem, they should be aware that there could be a loan shark lurking beneath the surface.

    Illegal money lenders are not always easy to spot. They could be a neighbour who always stops to chat, a parent who you know from the school gate, a popular work colleague, even a long-standing family friend.

    Borrowers often aren’t aware that they have borrowed from a loan shark until it’s too late. Things can quickly turn nasty as they demand repayments and issue threats of violence when you can’t pay.

    There are warning signs to look out for which may all indicate that someone is a loan shark. They include:
    • Being given no paperwork or details about the loan
    • The lender demanding repayments that add up to much more than you initially borrowed
    • Being intimidated or threatened by the lender if you struggle to pay
    • The lender demanding you hand over items like bank cards or a passport until you can pay

    If you do need to borrow, the IMLT advises people to contact their nearest Community Bank, which offer an alternative, ethical and safe way of borrowing for people who may have been refused credit elsewhere. Visit www.findyourcreditunion.co.uk to find one nearest to you.

    If you think you have been targeted by a loan shark, get in touch with the IMLT as soon as possible in complete confidence. Their specialist officers can offer advice and support and investigate the illegal lender.

    To get in touch:

    Remember you have done nothing wrong if you have borrowed from a loan shark. It is the lender who has committed a crime.

    Make sure you’re not allowing a loan shark into your life this Christmas.