A new defibrillator has been installed in Cleator Moor through a partnership between Skills 4 You and Northern Community Bank. The defibrillator, located on Cleator Moor’s High Street in the former Chamber of Trade building, was funded and installed through a charitable donation by Northern Community Bank, the not-for-profit community bank that provides savings accounts, financial education and affordable loans to the local community.
In the UK, around 60,000 people have an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest every year and less than 1 in 10 people survive. According to the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) defibrillation within five minutes can result in survival rates as high as 70%.
The Skills 4 You defibrillator is registered on The Circuit – the national defibrillator network, which connects defibrillators to NHS ambulance services across the UK. In the North West there are over 8,900 defibrillators on The Circuit and 94,000 nationally. Yvette Browne, NWAS Community Resuscitation Engagement Officer highlighted how vital defibrillators in the community can be
Thousands of families in the UK are left devasted by cardiac arrest every year. Early use of a defibrillator with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can more than double a person’s chance of survival. The defibrillator is available for use when calling 999 and the closest available defibrillator will be allocated, anyone can use a defibrillator and is designed for the untrained user.
Laura Bland, Project Leader at Skills 4 You, highlighted how the life-saving equipment could potentially help many people in the community at a time of need
Skills 4 You is a charity committed to supporting individuals on their journey to employment, offering them the skills and guidance needed to succeed. We are deeply grateful to Northern Community Bank for selecting our building as the location for this vital defibrillator. This life-saving device not only ensures the safety of our participants, staff, visitors and passers by, but also demonstrates the powerful impact of community collaboration in fostering a safer and more supportive environment for all.
Jim Youdale, founder member of Cleator Moor Community Bank and former director of Affinity Community Bank, attended the reveal of the defibrillator at Skills 4 You. Jim explained how pleasing it was to see Northern Community Bank, which merged with Affinity Community Bank in 2021, was still supporting the community, just as the credit union founders envisaged in 1994
It’s heartening to see that Northern Community Bank, the principal Community Bank serving the people of Cumbria, not only provides its members with an impressive range of financial products but is also committed to making charitable donations for the benefit of local communities.
You can find out the location of the nearest defibrillator to you by using this website www.defibfinder.uk
Is there anything more exciting than finding a last-minute holiday deal? Knowing that in a matter of days you could be on your way to the airport, sandy beaches and cold cocktails on the horizon. Pure bliss. One of the best things about a last-minute holiday deal – aside from the promise of sun-drenched days and unforgettable family memories – is the cost. Last-minute holiday deals often come with substantial discounts as hotels, airlines, and travel companies look to fill remaining spots. This can lead to big savings. It’s not all sunshine and smooth sailing, though. If you haven’t budgeted for a trip, or don’t have savings set aside, getting hold of the pounds, euros, or dollars on short notice can prove problematic. Luckily, Northern Community Bank has just the ticket for anyone needing quick cash to take off on their next adventure.
5 ways Northern Community Bank can make your last-minute holiday deal a booking breeze
VIP application process. Northern Community Bank’s quick loans online service offers amounts of up to £15,000, with all applicants benefiting from a process smoother than airline priority boarding. As long as we have all the information needed, decisions are often made within 48 working hours, sometimes even sooner. Once a decision has been made, the money will be BACS to your account the same day.
No post-holiday blues. With competitive interest rates and repayments especially tailored to suit your financial circumstance, you won’t be worrying about a financial black cloud following you around once your holiday comes to an end.
Test the waters. Taking out a loan can feel quite overwhelming, especially if you’ve never taken one out before. You can get a no pressure, no obligation free loan quote from Northern Community Bank whenever you wish. This allows you to explore other loan options without commitment, helping you to make an informed decision. Knowing the loan details upfront helps you plan your budget more effectively, too, meaning you can make your money go a little further while you’re away.
Saving for a rainy day (or another holiday). Hands up if you’re someone who’s already planning their next holiday before they’re home from the current one? The good news is, you can start planning your next getaway even while paying back your loan with Northern Community Bank. Anyone who borrows from us is expected to save into a savings account as they make loan repayments. These savings, which act as collateral, can only be accessed once the borrower has fully repaid the loan. Holiday deposit sorted.
First-class service. For more than four decades, we have been putting account holders’ interests at the heart of everything we do. Our goal is to make every step of your loan journey with us as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you’ve already seen a last-minute holiday deal that’s too good to turn down, apply online today.
If you have any questions, then don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01282 691333. You’ll be packing those flip-flops before you know it.
Loans for vet bills can be a real lifeline when your furry friend needs urgent care. The emotional rollercoaster that comes with a trip to the vets is something every pet parent knows only too well. When those visits lead to unexpected medical costs, an overwhelming and potentially heartbreaking situation can become even more stressful. That’s because with no NHS for pets, and the average claim on pet insurance for vet bills now up to an eye-watering £757, the financial burden for many is often significant. When it comes to our four-legged family members, no amount is too high – but sometimes the costs are that high, breaking into a bank feels like the only option available; an option we have no doubt many of you would consider. Thankfully, you don’t have to. Northern Community Bank has been providing loans for vet bills for decades, so you don’t have to choose between your financial well-being, and the health of your cuddly companion.
Northern Community Bank loans for vets bill – all you need to know
Pets come in all shapes and sizes. And so do Northern Community Bank loans. We do small loans, up to £500, through our extremely popular Family Loan & Saving Scheme. Simply borrow the amount you need, and you can use your child benefit to make the repayments. After all, your furry friend is part of the family. And we also offer larger loans up to £15,000, which can cover the cost of one of those major, out-of-the-blue vet bills. Anybody who’s had the unfortunate experience of visiting a vet during emergency hours will know all about that. If you are looking for an emergency loan, you’re going to need the money sooner rather than later. Northern Community Bank’s loans for vet bills can be in your account quicker than a dog can fetch a stick. With a straightforward application process – all of which can be completed online – decisions are usually made within 48 working hours, providing we have all the information needed. Once a decision has been made, the money will be BACS to your account the same day. All our applications are assessed individually by a person – not computers. This means we are able to properly look at affordability, income and expenditure and only lend amounts we are confident the applicant can afford to pay back.
I still have some questions about your loans for vet bills
We’re here to help! If you have any questions or need more information about our loans for vet bills, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly team is ready to assist you in finding the best financial solution for you and your pet’s needs. Call us on 01282 691333 to speak to one of our loan specialists today.
Over 500 delegates representing credit unions from 17 Caribbean countries, Ireland, Australia and the UK gathered to learn and cooperate at CCCU conference
Tia Warbrick was invited to attend and speak at the CCCU conference as she was selected to win this year’s WYCUP scholarship. This scholarship recognises individuals who have demonstrated leadership and exemplify a commitment to improving lives through financial cooperatives.
Reflecting on her experience, Tia shared,
“Being selected for the scholarship was a huge honour. The CCCU conference was truly inspirational and such a vibrant and engaging event. It was such an incredible opportunity to witness and learn about the amazing work that Caribbean Credit Unions are doing. Hearing that some of the Caribbean countries have 100% penetration of the population being credit union members is so inspiring! We have a lot to learn.”
Beyond attending informative sessions, Tia actively participated in a youth summit, where she engaged with over 70 young professionals from around the world. This summit provided a platform to discuss the future of the credit union movement, fostering collaboration and innovative thinking among the next generation of leaders.
The youth summit was a great opportunity to connect and learn from other likeminded young professionals on a global scale. These sessions are invaluable in moving the sector forward and creating space for young people to flourish.
The conference also tackled pressing global issues, including climate change. Tia and other scholarship recipients participated on a panel to contribute their credit unions insights on how they can and are mitigating environmental impacts. This is particularly crucial and important for regions disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. As part of their commitment to environmental stewardship, Tia and her peers participated in a beach cleanup—a tangible demonstration of their dedication to sustainable practices.
Reflecting on her enriching experience, Tia expressed her gratitude, saying
“The experience of attending the CCCU was unforgettable, and I would like to thank WOCCU, The Worldwide Foundation for Credit Union and The Caribbean Confederation for Credit Unions. Special thanks to Ari Farrell, WYCUP Programme Manager and Denise Garfield, General Manager of CCCU for making this incredible opportunity possible.”
Tia Warbrick’s journey to St Kitts not only enriched her personally and professionally but also reinforced our dedication to cooperative principles and global collaboration. Discussing the conference Kathryn Fogg, Northern Community Bank CEO, said
Northern Community Bank is very proud that Tia was selected to represent the UK credit union movement at the 2024 Caribbean Confederation for Credit Unions conference. To win the WYCUP scholarship to travel to and participate at the conference, which is open to over 240 credit unions across England, Scotland and Wales is a testament to Tia’s contribution to improving the lives of Northern Community Bank’s members through not-for-profit financial services. It also recognises Tia’s position as one the of sector’s most promising future leaders
At Northern Community Bank we know with the school holidays coming up, parents everywhere are looking for ways to keep their kids busy and happy. Luckily, there are plenty of free or cheap activities that can entertain children, keep them active, and create lasting memories. Here are ten budget-friendly summer holiday activities that will keep the kids entertained without costing a lot.
Explore Local Parks and Nature Reserves:
Enjoy the outdoors by visiting local parks, nature trails, or nature reserves. Kids can play on playgrounds, ride bikes, have picnics, or go on nature walks. It’s a great way for them to connect with nature and get some exercise while having fun.
Organise a DIY Craft Day:
Encourage your child’s creativity with a DIY craft day. Use materials you already have at home, like paper, cardboard, glue, scissors, and markers. Let their imaginations soar as they create art, build models, or design handmade jewellery. Pinterest and YouTube have lots of ideas for kid-friendly crafts.
Visit Local Libraries:
Public libraries often have summer programs and events for children. From storytelling sessions to arts and crafts workshops, libraries are great places for kids to learn, explore new books, and meet other children in a safe and fun environment.
Plan a Back Garden Camping Adventure:
Turn your backyard into a mini campsite for an unforgettable adventure. Set up a tent, pack some snacks, and let your children enjoy sleeping under the stars. Tell stories, play games, and roast marshmallows. It’s a cheap way to create lasting memories without leaving home.
Create a Scavenger Hunt:
Design a scavenger hunt with clues that lead your kids to different locations or objects around the house or neighbourhood. Include educational elements, like solving riddles or finding items related to science, history, or nature. This activity helps with thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.
Have a Movie Marathon:
Choose a theme or series of movies your children enjoy and plan a movie marathon day. Create a cosy atmosphere with blankets, pillows, and snacks. Talk about the movies afterward to spark their imagination and creativity.
Engage in DIY Science Experiments:
Turn your kitchen into a science lab with simple DIY experiments. From homemade volcanoes to making slime or growing crystals, there are many fun and educational experiments you can do with everyday items. Get hands-on and let your kids be little scientists.
Visit Local Museums or Art Galleries:
Many museums and art galleries offer free or discounted admission on certain days. Take advantage of these opportunities to expose your children to art, culture, and history. Look for child-friendly exhibits or interactive displays that can capture their interest and make learning fun.
Organise a Sports Day:
Get active and encourage your children to participate in a fun sports day. Set up different stations or games in your backyard or local park, like relay races, mini-golf, or a water balloon toss. It’s a great way to promote teamwork, physical fitness, and friendly competition.
Explore Online Learning Platforms:
Use technology to explore online learning platforms that offer free or affordable educational content for kids. Websites and apps often have interactive lessons, quizzes, and educational games covering many subjects. This way, children can have fun while learning.
Keeping kids entertained during the school holidays doesn’t have to be expensive. By exploring local parks, doing DIY activities, visiting libraries or museums, and adding educational fun to their free time, parents can give their children a memorable and enriching experience. These ten budget-friendly summer holiday activities offer a perfect mix of fun, learning, and creativity, ensuring that your kids have a fantastic summer break. So, get ready to create lasting memories without spending too much!
We know that terms and conditions aren’t the most exciting thing to sit down with a cup of tea and read. However, they are an important part of being an account holder with Northern Community Bank.
We have two types of terms and conditions – general and loan. The general terms and conditions cover savings accounts and being a member of Northern Community Bank. They give information on payments of dividends, statements and the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. The loan terms and conditions are for any account holder who has a loan with Northern Community Bank. They cover things such as your cancellation rights, making payments and loan duration.
As we have made some changes over the past 12 months – such as the introduction of the new app, we have had to make updates to our terms and conditions. To make it easier for you though we have used red to highlight the removed text and blue represents the replacement text.
1.1.1 These terms and conditions relate to all Northern Community Bank savings accounts.
1.1.4 A privacy notice is available at https://northerncommunitybank.co.uk/privacy-policy/ and can be requested at any time.
1.2 Membership
1.2.2 There is a one-time £1 account fee for all adult members.
1.2.2 Your membership will automatically start when you have deposited £1, which could be withdrawn at the end of the membership.
1.3 Payment of Dividends/Interest
1.3.3 Membership must be held at the time of the dividend being paid to be eligible for it. That means any members withdrawing from membership before it is paid will forfeit any dividend that may be payable.
1.3.4 Any dividend shall be declared at joining the credit union during the financial yearaccounting year will be entitled to a proportional part of the dividend on any sharessavings held for less than the full year. For new Members who join after the financial year endaccounting year end but before that year’s AGM, the dividend will be paid after the following year’s AGM.
1.3.6 Dividends will be paid to active members. Members with status Dormant, deceased, left or bad debt accounts will not accrue dividend or loan interest rebate.
1.3.8 Dividend and loan interest rebate, which is paid by the end of March, will be withdrawable in the same financial year. it is paid.
1.4 Tax
1.4.1 Dividends and interest are paid gross of any tax but are not tax-free. You must therefore declare your dividends and interest payments on your tax return. You can find some more information on https://www.gov.uk/tax-on-dividends
1.5 Rules around different types of savings accounts:
Please note that the right to set off overrides all other saving deposit rules. For further explanation, see point 2.10.
1.7 Dormant Accounts
1.7.1 If your account became dormant Northern Community Bank will request a form of identification to reactivate your account.
1.8 Statements
1.8.1 You can request a free statement of your account at any time, which will show your savings/ loan balance, repayments/ deposits and interest paid. Statements can also be viewed anytime in the member’s area, which you can find at Account Area | Northern Community Bank. These will no longer be issued to members periodically.
1.9 Transactions and Payments
1.9.3 Funds that are paid into the Credit Union by Standing Order or benefit will only be available for you to withdraw on the same day as receipt following processing.
1.9.3 Standing Orders, Payroll Deductions, Continuous Payment Authorities or Benefits that are received by 8am on the working day will be available for you to withdraw at least by the end of that day. Payments received after 8am will be available on following working day.
1.9.6 Any increase or decrease to Payroll payment need to be made via employeremployee. Signed Payroll Deduction Amendment Mandate may be requested with any change.
1.9.7 Withdrawals for payments that have been made by card within 30 days willmay be paid back to the same card.
1.9.8 Card payment can only be made up to the value of £500 towards savings deposits. Any amount will be accepted to settle the loan balance.
1.9.9 Card payments can be cancelled within 14 days of transactions occurring. Funds will be paid to the same card and fees may be charged.
1.11 Financial Services Compensation Scheme
1.11.1 Northern Community Bank is covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). This means that your savings are protected by the scheme up to £85,000 per member. For more information about the compensation scheme please visit www.fscs.org.uk.
1.11.1 FSCS can pay compensation to members of a credit union when it fails. Set up by parliament and funded by the financial services industry, FSCS is a completely independent and free service. This means FSCS can pay back any money you hold with a failed community bank, up to its compensation limit of £120,000 per person. For more information about the compensation scheme please visit https://www.fscs.org.uk/.
1.12 Proof of Identity
1.12.2 Northern Community Bank can request carry out an Identification and Verification (ID&V) check at any time of membership.
1.12.3 Northern Community Bank will carry out screening of membership which will be completed by a 3rd party scanning company semi-annually, this will search for matches on the Sanctions list, Adverse Media and any Politically Exposed Persons.
1.17.1 If you wish to make a complaint you can contact us by telephone on 01282 691333, in person and in writing on Northern Community Bank, 54 Manchester Road, Nelson, Lancashire, BB9 7EJ, by email hello@northerncb.uk or through our Nivo app. We will always do everything we possibly can to sort out the problem, however if you are unhappy with the outcome, you can make an official complaint. We’ll send you a written acknowledgement within three working days and keep you informed on our progress until your complaint has been resolved. The maximum timescale for a final response is 8 weeks and if for any reason it takes longer, we will keep you fully updated. For more information about our complaints procedure please visit Complaints – Northern Community Bank
If you do not feel you have been treated fairly you have the option to refer to the Financial Ombudsman Service. For more information about the Financial Ombudsman Service please visit www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.
1.17 Life Cover Terms and Conditions
1.17.1 Discretionary
Life Protection is automatically provided with membership at no extra cost, to members from 0 up to the age of 80.
It may double the balance of your savings and clear any outstanding loan balance you may have with us, subject to the following criteria:
– Savings are covered up to a maximum of £5,000 across all accounts with 100% cover for funds deposited up to the age of 64 years and 364 days and 25% cover for funds deposited between the ages of 65 to 79 years and 364 days. Loans are covered up to a maximum borrowing of £7,000 across all loans held per Member up to the age of 80.
– There is a pre-existing medical condition clause that is included as standard. The terms are as follows:
Each new savings deposit or loan agreement that you make is governed by a six-month pre-existing medical condition clause.
Benefit will not be paid on your outstanding savings or loan balance if death results from a pre-existing illness or injury for which medical advice, consultation or treatment was received within six months prior to making the savings deposit or loan.
The pre-existing medical condition clause lasts for a period of six months from the start date of each savings deposit or loan. If you were to die six months or more after the date of the savings deposit or loan, this would not apply.
War: Life cover benefits may not be payable if a Member is injured, becomes ill or dies resulting from an insurrection of any war, declared or undeclared, or service in the armed forces of any country.
Suicide: Benefits are not payable with respect to any savings deposit or loan paid into a Member’s account if a Member commits suicide, while sane or insane, within six months from the date of the savings deposit.
Loans with no repayments within 3 months prior to death.
1.17.1 Life Protection is automatically provided with membership at no extra cost to members up to the age of 80.
1.17.2 Savings are covered up to a maximum of £5,000 across all accounts with 100% cover for funds deposited up to the age of 64 years and 364 days and 25% cover for funds deposited between the ages of 65 to 79 years and 364 days.
1.17.3 Loans are covered up to a maximum borrowing of £7,000 across all loans held per Member up to the age of 80.
1.17.4 There is a pre-existing medical condition clause that is included as standard. The terms are as follows:
Each new savings deposit or loan agreement that you make is governed by a six-month pre-existing medical condition clause.
Benefit will not be paid on your outstanding savings or loan balance if death results from a pre-existing illness or injury for which medical advice, consultation or treatment was received within six months prior to making the savings deposit or loan.
The pre-existing medical condition clause lasts for a period of six months from the start date of each savings deposit or loan. If you were to die six months or more after the date of the savings deposit or loan, this would not apply.
Suicide: Benefits are not payable with respect to any savings deposit or loan paid into a Member’s account if a Member commits suicide, while sane or insane, within six months from the date of the savings deposit.
War: Life cover benefits may not be payable if a Member is injured, becomes ill or dies resulting from an insurrection of any war, declared or undeclared, or service in the armed forces of any country.
Loans with no repayments within 3 months prior to death.
1.18 Online/App Access
1.18.1 Online/app access may be only available for active members. To access your online account via the website or the Northern Community Bank app, you will need to activate your account first.
1.18.2 Online/app access is not available to junior accounts; however, statements can be requested anytime but only with the authorisation of the beneficiary.
1.18.3 To allow Northern Community Bank to provide automatic withdrawal facilities, greater restrictions for withdrawals received through the app and online access apply. The limits apply to each individual savings account and work using rolling data. This means that if you withdraw from your account at 9 am, you will not be able to process another automatic withdrawal until the following day at 9 am. Likewise, if you withdrew your weekly limit on Wednesday, you won’t be able to withdraw from this account until the following Wednesday. See the restrictions outlined in the table below:
Regular Savings/ Easy Access/ Bill Paying/ Savings 2/ Christmas Club
*Christmas Club yearly maximum number of withdrawals is limited to 24.
1.18.4 If you wish to withdraw a larger amount or more frequently than detailed below, please get in touch with Northern Community Bank.
Loan Terms and Conditions
2.1 Cancellation
2.1.1 Your right to cancel starts the day after the date you received the funds and lasts for 14 days after that.
2.2 Making payments.
2.2.2 Your loan repayment date may be changed in accordance with date of payment received.
2.2.5 A regular savings repayment is required alongside your loan repayments. This varies between £1.00 per week and £5.00 per week depending on the loan product.
2.3 Rules around loan products:
2.3.1 Family Loan:
If you have taken the Family Loan product, you will be asked to sign into your Government Gateway account and changeto sign a letter to be sent to the HMRC arranging for your Child benefit payment to be paid to your Northern Community Bank account. This may take up to 6 weeks to be completed and these delayed payments will be added to the end of your loan term, extending this where necessary.
When we are waiting for your child benefit to be paid to us daily interest charges will be occurring. You may make manual payments via card or bank transfer in order to avoid this.
Loan repayments on family loan must be paid fully or partly via child benefit on this product unless an alternative method of payment is agreed with the Member Solutions Team.
2.3.2 Family Loan Plus:
To be eligible to apply for Family Loan Plus member would need to complete all stages of a family loan and need to be an active member for the last 12 months.
2.4.1 Family loan applications are accepted 90 days after the previous family loan application.
2.4.2 Family loan + applications are accepted 180 days after the previous family loan + application.
2.4.3 Standard loan applications are accepted 90 days after the previous standard loan application unless stated otherwise.
2.6 Credit Check
2.6.1 Northern Community Bank reserves the right to run a credit check on any loan application, consent will be obtained prior.
2.9 Payment difficulties
2.9.1 Please contact us at the earliest possible opportunity should you find yourself in financial difficulty and struggling to make repayments on your loan. Our Member Solutions Team will discuss your personal circumstances and review your repayment options. More information can be found here https://northerncommunitybank.co.uk/cant-pay-loan/
2.9.3 Failure to get in touch and set up an appropriate repayment plan will lead to arrears being recorded on your credit file, affecting it negatively. This will make it difficult for you to obtain credit in the future.
The full Loan Terms and Conditions can be found here.
It’s Olympics month and if you’re in a race against time to apply for a quick loan then look no further for an unbeatable gold medal service. There are hundreds of reasons a person may need to apply for a quick loan. It could be urgent car or home repairs. Maybe the washing machine has gone on the blink. It could simply be you’ve been offered 100m final tickets and need to find the money for a trip to Paris as quickly as possible. Northern Community Bank isn’t here to judge or pry into your personal life. We fully understand the unpredictability of life and want to do everything in our power to make applying for a quick loan as simple as possible. Quick loans are extremely common but should always be approached with caution due to unscrupulous lenders trying to cash in through exorbitant interest rates and sneaky fees. When it comes to fair lending and consumer protection, credit unions are true torchbearers in the loan sector. Here’s why:
Why apply for a quick loan with Northern Community Bank
For four decades, we’ve prided ourselves on delivering the best possible service in not just delivering quick loans but delivering the right loans for our account holders. You can apply for a quick loan of up to £15,000 available to anyone within our community. The repayments can be made by standing order, a direct benefit payment (tax credits, universal credit, pension). Or if your employer is part of our Payroll Plus scheme, you could have the repayments taken straight from your wage with payroll deductions. If you prefer, you could apply for a quick loan with our £500 Family Loan and Saving scheme. With this, you can borrow for family expenses and use your child benefit for the repayments. And due to the fact loan decisions are based purely on affordability, there’s no credit check required.
How long will it take for me to receive my money?
We keep the process as simple as a hop, skip and jump. Apply online. Decision online. Sign online. As long as we have all the information needed, decisions are usually made within 48 working hours. Once a decision has been made, the money will be BACS to your account the same day. 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. All Northern Community Bank account holders are also required to regularly save alongside making loan repayments, meaning you have a pot of cash there waiting should you need it in the future. We love nothing more than looking after our account holders’ futures and receiving testimonials like this – “Never had an issue. Absolutely great services. Great staff. Excellent fast service, amazing customer service! A++” – is better than any gold medal to us.
Top marks for anybody who’s already thinking about the end of summer uniform shop.
Yes, the school holidays may have only just begun, but it won’t be long before you’re being inundated with ‘Back to School’ ads.
And given the costs of sending even just one child to school these days, you can never start planning for term-time soon enough.
How much does the school uniform shop cost in 2024
Retailer Wynsors carried out a survey of more than 1,000 UK parents this year. Wynsors wanted to understand exactly just how much the school uniform shop is affecting their finances. According to the results, 78% of parents are spending more than £100 per school year on school uniform. More than half of these (57%) admitting to forking out up to £249. This means that parents could be spending anywhere between £1,100 and £2,739 on new uniform supplies (per child) over their entire school life. And this is just the uniform shop. It doesn’t account for other ‘hidden’ costs such as calculators, stationary, sports kits etc. These purchases tend to come at the end of a busy summer as well. Holidays, days out, endless ice creams. Keeping children entertained can be a costly challenge over the summer and can have a significant impact on tight budgets. If you’re feeling the pinch following an expensive few weeks, Northern Community Bank can help take the pressure off this year’s uniform shop (as well as any other summer holiday expenses). Last year, we helped more than 700 families to spread the cost of expensive school uniforms with our affordable loans. Here’s how:
Why Northern Community Bank is top of the loan class
At Northern Community Bank, we have spent decades studying loans to ensure we provide the most fair and transparent lending options available. It’s how we came up with our Family Loan & Saving Scheme, which has now helped thousands of families afford school uniforms. It’s based on the fact we believe all loan applications should be judged on a case-by-case basis so as not to exclude certain members of the community who may be struggling. Through the Northern Community Bank Family Loan and Saving Scheme, we assess your affordability without a credit check and use your child benefit to make the repayments. Our affordable repayments are always tailored to suit an applicant’s financial circumstances. The scheme also requires account holders to make regular savings alongside repaying their loan. This means next year’s uniform shop may not feel as costly or stressful.
For more information on uniform shop loans or any other money matters, you’re more than welcome to visit the school of Northern Community Bank. We have classrooms in Burnley, Colne and Nelson or, alternatively, you can speak to one of our members of staff over the phone on 01282 691333.
As another school year ends, the quest of school uniform shopping can put a strain on any parent’s budget. But fear not! With some clever planning, you can save money on school uniforms. You can do this without cutting quality. In this blog, we’ll share some tips. They will help make this back-to-school season free of financial stress.
Northern Community Bank’s top money saving tips:
Check the school’s uniform policy:
Before you start shopping, review your child’s school uniform policy. Make a note of the essential items your child needs and any specific guidelines. This will prevent you from buying unneeded items. It will ensure you’re buying the right ones.
Plan your school uniform shopping carefully to get the best deals:
Look out for seasonal sales, clearance events, and special promotions. Shopping during off-peak times can also lead to big discounts. These times include after the back-to-school rush. Be patient, and don’t be afraid to explore different stores and online retailers to find the best deals.
Second-hand options:
Consider buying second-hand uniforms. Many schools have systems in place for parents to sell or exchange gently used uniforms. You can also check local charity shops. You can also look on online marketplaces, or social media groups. Parents sell pre-loved uniforms there. Examine items carefully for wear and tear, then clean them before use.
Quality matters:
Investing in good, durable uniforms can save you money. While the initial cost may be slightly higher. But well-made clothes last longer and handle the wear and tear of everyday school life. Look for strong seams. They should be reinforced. Also, look for sturdy buttons. The fabrics should be high quality and easy to maintain.
Swap with other parents:
Reach out to other parents in your child’s class or school and organise a uniform swap. Children grow quickly. They often outgrow their uniforms before they wear them out. By exchanging uniforms with other families, you can save money and help each other out. It’s a win-win situation!
Supermarket brands:
Consider purchasing supermarket uniforms. They often offer similar quality. But they cost less than specialised uniform retailers. Don’t be swayed by fancy logos or labels. What matters most is the clothing’s function and durability.
Take care of uniforms:
Proper care can lengthen school uniforms’ lives. Teach your child good habits. They include hanging uniforms properly, spot-cleaning stains, and following laundry instructions. This will help reduce the frequency of replacements and save you money in the long run.
Buy essentials in bulk:
These include plain white shirts, socks, and tights. They are key parts of a school uniform. Buy these in bulk to take advantage of bulk discounts. Be sure to label these items with your child’s name to minimise the chances of mix-ups.
Plan ahead for growth spurts:
Children grow fast. Their uniforms may become too small in a few months. Expect growth spurts and buy uniforms with room to grow. The waistbands are adjustable. The skirts expand. The hems are longer. They let the uniforms be worn longer before needing replacement.
Hand-me-downs:
If you’ve got older children who have outgrown their uniforms, save them for younger siblings. Or pass them to friends and family. Not only will it save money, but it will also create a sense of community and sharing.
Check your local authority for help:
There is a strict criteria to meet. But it could be worth exploring if you’re really struggling. Details for the Lancashire area can be found
For the Cumberland district of Cumbria click here. For Westmorland & Furness click here.
Navigating the costs of school uniforms doesn’t have to be a financial burden. Follow these money-saving tips. They will let you buy your child a quality uniform without spending much.
Why is Northern Community Bank the answer to school uniform deals?
At Northern Community Bank, we understand the challenges that come with the expenses of school uniforms. That’s why we’re here to help. We offer a range of solutions to make these costs more manageable for families like yours. We’ve already helped over 500 families. We helped them spread the cost of their school uniforms with our affordable loans. We know that these expenses often hit all at once, without any ideal timing. At Northern Community Bank, our mission is to ensure that you can fully use those great school uniform deals when you find them.
Let’s take a look at our Family Loan & Saving Scheme, for example. With this, we assess your affordability without a credit check. We make the repayments easy by using your child benefit. We ensure that the repayment amounts are affordable. They are tailored to your specific finances.
If you’re already benefiting from a Family Loan with us, you might be eligible for a top-up. A top-up allows you to increase your existing loan balance, and you can apply for it after 90 days of repayments.
But that’s not all! We also encourage you to make regular saving repayments alongside repaying your loan. This means you’ll cover your current expenses. You’ll also save for next year’s school uniforms. It’s all about being prepared and making the financial journey smoother for you and your family.
If the words “credit score” tend to send a shiver down your spine, then you may have heard about credit builder loans? We’re all human, and sometimes life’s challenges can lead to a missed payment. It could be a medical emergency, a sudden job loss, or simply a genuine oversight. The point is it could happen to anyone and anytime. Unfortunately, the credit scoring system is an unforgiving, unrelenting machine that doesn’t care about your personal circumstances, your finances, or your feelings. Even the smallest financial misstep can have the biggest impact on not just your credit, but your life, too. The companies that provides credit builder loans believe they help individuals establish or improve their credit score. Here’s how:
What are credit builder loans?
The main aim of credit builder loans is right there in the title – help you build or rebuild your credit. What credit builder loans do is allow you to take on a small amount of debt by taking out a loan. However, you don’t actually receive any money; not straight away. The lender places the money in a savings account, and you make fixed monthly payments towards this account over a predetermined period. The lender will then report your repayment history to the credit reference agency. As long as payments are made on time, this will demonstrate the fact you are a reliable borrower. Once you’ve paid off the balance, the lender will release the funds into a savings account of your own. This may also include accrued interest. Credit-building loans are a great way of building up your credit score, but what if you don’t have the luxury of time?
Do Northern Community Bank offer a credit builder loan?
At Northern Community Bank, we don’t have a loan product to especially help build your credit score. We do of course take credit scores into account when dealing with an application. However, unlike other lenders, we consider more than just numbers when assessing loan eligibility. Firstly, our decisions are made by real people, not computers; meaning your credit score isn’t the be-all and end-all. Also, we don’t offer different interest rates on loans purely based on your credit history. Meaning you will never be charged more or less for borrowing money because of your credit score. And the best bit? Northern Community Bank reports to the credit agency Experian and TransUnion for all loans taken. This means as long as the correct payments are made on time, your credit rating will improve. Our good money management assistance doesn’t stop there, either. Northern Community Bank’s ‘Save as you borrow’ scheme helps you to build up your savings as you pay back your loan. So, the next time an unexpected expense pops up, or the lure of a holiday gets too much, you’ll be in a far better position to pay. Northern Community Bank is committed to offering products and services that help account holders manage their money and build up a history of financial responsibility. Although we don’t offer a credit builder loan, if you have any questions on the products and services we do offer, please don’t hesitate to contact the team.
Summer’s here! Well, July’s nearly here. And ‘holiday loans online‘ is being searched for more times than, ‘when will it stop raining?’ as an entire nation goes on the hunt for that big yellow ball in the sky. Holidays aren’t all about sun, sea and sand, though. They’re just as much about rest, relax and reset – more important than ever in today’s world. One of life’s biggest stressors though is, of course, money. And if your finances are more last resort than five-star resort, then that much-needed getaway could feel further away than ever. Enter Northern Community Bank and our holiday loans online. Whether you’re looking for a week in Barbados or a weekend in Blackpool, this could be just the ticket for you.
Why Northern Community Bank is the go-to destination for holiday loans online?
There are fewer things better in life than creating holiday memories with loved ones. It could be a trip to the seaside with the family, or it might be a European city break, soaking up all the culture, history, and atmosphere. It may even be exploring the farthest flung reaches of the world on the adventure of a lifetime. Northern Community Bank’s holiday loans online cater for all tastes and costs. For those looking to maybe push the boat (or cruise ship) out a little, Northern Community Bank has provided larger holiday loans of up to £15,000 for countless people over the last four decades. And we have done so with fairness, transparency and honesty. There’s no point in enjoying the holiday of a lifetime if you’re going to spend what feels like a lifetime worrying about how you’re going to pay back the loan. Community Bank interest rates are typically lower than many other lenders. On top of this, we spread the repayments over a manageable period, giving you financial flexibility and peace of mind. One of our biggest aims is to make the loan application process as stress-free as the holiday itself. With Northern Community Bank, it’s simply a case of apply online, decision online, sign online. And we will always try to have a decision – loan decisions that are made by people, not computers – for you within 48 working hours. There’s no setup fee or early settlement penalties, and we also offer a free bereavement fund benefit on all savings and loans We also offer free loan quotes, so you can explore your options without any obligation allowing you to make informed decisions about your holiday financing with confidence and ease.
Can I talk to someone about holiday loans online?
If you need assistance with holiday loans online, our team is here and happy to help! Whether you have questions about loan options, interest rates, or the application process, we’re just a call or click away. We can’t wait to help you make your holiday dreams become a reality.
Northern Community Bank were pleased to attend the grand opening of New Era Burnley’s new premises located off Hammerton Street. New Era is a not-for-profit, social enterprise, based in the heart of Burnley, inspiring, transforming and connecting communities one life at a time.
Northern Community Bank know that many of our account holders have been supported by New Era, who has operated in East Lancashire since 1986, providing a ‘support for all’ service, champions families, promotes positive mental health and upskills the local community with a range of qualifications.
New Era work with local people identifying needs and providing a wide range of services through their Family, Engagement and Health & Wellbeing hubs.
What services do New Era provide?
New Era has supported over 6000 families across Lancashire, providing 1-1 support, advice and guidance, and over 350 family courses helping families build strong and secure relationships
New Era’s ‘Believing in You, Believing in Better’ engagement programme provides a range of training, 1-1 and group activities, increasing skills, employability and confidence. 98% of those supported shared they felt less lonely and more connected with their community
Looking back at some of New Era’s successful projects over the years
5,500 residents were supported in taking up jobs with 400 work places thanks to New Era and the Burnley Employment and Training Charter. New Era continue to support people into work and training opportunities
A successful project between New Era and the Lancashire Learning and Skills Council’s Childcare Entrepreneur Development Project registered 17 new childminders, creating 79 new childcare places
New Era previously used ESF funding to train over 600 students in Level 1, 2 and 3 Childcare qualifications
Top Tips For Parents
New Era provide information, guidance and training on a range of subjects such as Raising Children, Parenting Apart, Raising Children with ADHD, Parenting in a stepfamily, Single Parenting, Bereaved Parent Support.
Whilst providing information on important topics for households with families, including Safer Sleep for babies, Safe from Burns and Scalds, Safety around dogs and many more.
Time Out for Parents courses
Being a parent can be both rewarding yet challenging. New Era courses are there to support you and to help you build a strong and secure relationship with your child, whatever their age. The courses are run in community venues and are usually made up of six 2-hour sessions, each led by trained and experienced facilitators. A helpful, easy-to-read handbook is included with each course. There are opportunities for group discussions and practical tasks to help you build on your strengths and will give you time and space to think about any changes you want to make
New Era provides First Aid Training For All. Their First Aid training is interactive and uses electronic technology to help check the participant’s knowledge and understanding. As part of New Era’s social responsibility, for every First Aid course booked, 10% of the course fees will be donated towards providing First Aid in the community – this can be for Mum’s and Tot’s groups, schools – parents or children, or other community groups.
New Era provide the following First Aid courses
Paediatric First Aid
First Aid for Juniors
First Aid at Work
Activity First Aid
Emergency First Aid at Work
More information on the courses above can be found here
Bespoke training can also be done at a local place of work – for more information please email karen@neweraburnley.co.uk
New Era Creche services
New Era has run a successful creche agency since 2002. Their creche workers are fully qualified childcare practitioners and hold enhanced DBS Clearance, Paediatric First Aid and Safeguarding qualifications. How can they help?
Provide a creche to run alongside their training or support session
Provide qualified and experienced staff to cover a period of holiday, sickness or maternity leave
Provide childcare at event include weddings or functions
New Era charge an hourly rate for each creche worker and can provide a range of equipment including toys and activities for use on the day.
New Era Nursery
Did you know the not-for-profit operate their own Nursery from the Sion Church, Church Street, Burnley?
New Era’s vision is that all the children in their care will thrive in their dedicated, nurturing and stimulating environment. When they move on to school, they will be prepared and eager to continue their learning experiences and become happy, productive and well-adjusted members of society.
You can find out more by visiting their website here, telephone 07727 713 690 or email nursery@neweraburnley.co.uk
You can find out more about New Era’s work to improve poverty, isolation and wellbeing in Burnley and East Lancashire by inspiring, transforming and connecting communities one life at a time by visiting their website www.neweraburnley.co.uk
