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  1. Used Cars: How to spot a good deal

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    Buying a used car can be a great way to save money and get a reliable vehicle, but it can also be a bit risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Fortunately, with some careful research and planning, you can minimise your risk and find a great car that will serve you well for years to come. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for a used car.

    1. Determine your budget.

      Before you start shopping for any vehicle, it’s important to figure out how much you can afford to spend. Be sure to factor in not just the cost of the car itself, but also things like tax, and insurance. Once you have a budget in mind, stick to it and don’t let a seller talk you into spending more than you can afford.

    2. Research the make and model

      Once you know your budget, it’s time to start researching the make and model of the vehicle you’re interested in. Look up reviews, reliability ratings, and common problems for that particular model. This will give you a good idea of what to expect and what to look for when you’re inspecting the car.

    3. Check the vehicle history report.

      Before you even consider buying a used vehicle, you should always check its vehicle history report. This will give you information about the car’s ownership history, accident history, and maintenance records. You can usually get a vehicle history report from websites like Total Car Check or Full Car Checks for a small fee.

    4. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly.

      When you’re inspecting a used car, pay attention to things like the condition of the tires, brakes, and suspension. Look for signs of rust or damage, and make sure all the electronics and features are working properly. If you’re not confident in your ability to complete an inspection, consider bringing a mechanic or someone who knows about cars with you.

    5. Take a test drive.

      Always take a test drive before you buy. This will give you a chance to see how the car handles and to check for any potential issues. Pay attention to how it accelerates, brakes, and handles on the road. If anything seems off, don’t be afraid to walk away.

    6. Negotiate the price.

      Once you’ve found a used car you’re interested in, it’s time to negotiate the price. Use the information you’ve gathered from your research and inspection to determine a fair price. Don’t be afraid to negotiate and walk away if the seller isn’t willing to come down to a price that you’re comfortable with.

    7. Get a pre-purchase inspection.

      Before you finalise the sale, it’s a good idea to get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you trust. This will give you peace of mind knowing that there are no hidden problems that you might have missed. If the seller is hesitant to let you get a pre-purchase inspection, that could be a red flag.

    Buying a used car can be a great way to save money and get a reliable vehicle. It’s so important to be diligent and do your research before making a purchase. By following these tips, you can minimise your risk and find a great used car that will serve you well for years to come.

    Whether you choose a new or used car, we provide Car Loans up to £15,000. A Northern Community Bank loan means you can buy your vehicle outright, which means you have the option to do whatever you wish with your set of new wheels.

     

  2. Blooming beauties on a budget: affordable tips for garden improvements

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    Transforming your garden into a beautiful oasis doesn’t have to break the bank. With some clever planning, creativity, and a dash of green-thumb enthusiasm, you can make remarkable improvements to your garden without draining your wallet. In this blog post, we’ll share budget-friendly tips and ideas to help you spruce up your outdoor space. Let’s dig in and discover how to create a stunning garden on a budget!

    1. Plan and Prioritise:

      Start by envisioning your ideal garden and creating a plan. Identify the areas you want to focus on, such as improving the landscaping, adding seating areas, or creating a vibrant flower bed. Prioritise your goals and tackle them one at a time to make the most of your budget.

    2. Harness the Power of Seeds:

      Growing plants from seeds is not only cost-effective but also rewarding. Research which plants are suitable for your climate and sow seeds directly in your garden or in inexpensive pots. Nurture them with care, and watch as your garden blossoms with beautiful flowers and fresh herbs and vegetables.

    3. Embrace Thrifty Plant Choices:

      Visit local plant nurseries or garden centres during end-of-season sales or clearance events. You can find discounted plants, shrubs, and trees that need a new home. Look for hardy varieties that are known to thrive in your region, as they require less maintenance and provide long-lasting beauty.

    4. Divide and Multiply:

      Many plants can be divided and spread, giving you more bang for your buck. Research which plants in your garden can be divided, and carefully separate them into multiple clumps. Transplant the divided sections into new areas of your garden or share them with friends and neighbours.

    5. DIY Garden Structures:

      Add charm and functionality to your garden by creating your own structures. Build trellises, arbores, or raised beds using recycled materials like pallets or reclaimed wood. Not only will this save money, but it will also give your garden a unique and personalised touch.

    6. Upcycle and Repurpose:

      Let your creativity shine by repurposing items you already have. Convert old containers into planters, transform wooden crates into herb gardens, or use discarded tires as colourful flower beds. The possibilities are endless, and upcycling can breathe new life into your garden while saving you money.

    7. Mulch for Magic:

      Applying mulch in your garden offers multiple benefits. It helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and adds a polished look to your flower beds. Opt for affordable options like wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves, which can be sourced locally or even collected from your own yard.

    8. DIY Garden Décor:

      Create eye-catching garden décor using inexpensive materials. Paint rocks or pebbles with vibrant colours and inspirational messages to make delightful garden markers or decorative accents. Craft wind chimes using recycled materials like seashells, bottle caps, or old cutlery. Let your imagination roam free!

    9. Water-Wise Strategies:

      Save money and conserve water by implementing water-wise practices. Install a rain barrel to collect rainwater for irrigation, group plants with similar watering needs together, and consider drought-tolerant plants that require less water. These measures can reduce your water bill while maintaining a thriving garden.

    10. Share and Swap:

      Connect with fellow garden enthusiasts in your community and consider organising plant or seed swaps. This allows you to expand your plant collection without spending a penny. Plus, it’s a great way to meet like-minded individuals and exchange gardening tips and tricks.

    Making garden improvements and brightening your outdoor space can be a rewarding experience. With these budget-friendly tips, you can create a stunning outdoor haven that reflects your style and passion for gardening.

    A garden loan from Northern Community Bank will enable you to carry out modifications which are as large or as small as you wish. From buying a hot tub or splash pool, to redecorating a fence or fitting a brand new patio, our home and garden improvement loans can be used to make an extra room outside your home.

  3. Looking for the best loan rates – then you have come to the right place.

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    Finding the best loan rates can prove an difficult – not to mention – overwhelming task for some people.
    Lost in a sea of figures, many applicants are left scratching their heads. They’re left bamboozled with talk around annual percentage rates, interest rates, early settlement fees, hard credit checks, and other financial jargon.
    Even knowing where to start looking can be a daunting experience. Yet hundreds of thousands of people across the UK will set off on their very own loan application journey each year.
    From repairs and moving expenses to holidays and home improvements, there are dozens of reasons why you or a family member may need a helping hand at some point.
    At Northern Community Bank, it’s our aim to, not just provide you with the best loan rates, but to do so in a way that won’t leave you trapped in a fog of confusion.

    Where’s the place to go for best loan rates?

    Now, of course, we’re going to say Northern Community Bank. But hear us out.
    We’re not telling you to come and speak to us about best loan rates. We’re simply asking you to consider us.
    At the beginning of this blog, we mentioned annual percentage rates – or APR.
    In a nutshell, APR refers to the total cost of your borrowing for a year. It takes into account all additional fees and charges, as well as the interest rate. All lenders must tell you what their APR is before you sign a credit agreement.
    Community banks can only charge a maximum of 42.6% APR. If we use our £500 family loan as an example; taking this out over a year would result in you paying interest of £96.92 – so, a total of £596.92.
    Some lenders’ APR sits around the 300% mark, meaning you could face paying a whopping £475 back on top of the £500 you’ve borrowed. Which is why taking your time to assess all the options available to you is so crucial.
    Northern Community Bank also offers higher value loans at lower rates of interest. On top of this, the interest is charged on your decreasing loan balance. This means as it decreases – the amount of interest you pay decreases, too.

    Will my credit history stop me from getting the best loan rates?

    Unlike some lenders, Northern Community Bank does not offer different interest rates on loans purely based on your credit history.
    Our loan decisions are made by real people, not computers. We are able to take into account all the circumstances surrounding your finances – affordability, income, expenditure, payment history – before devising a repayment plan that best suits your situation.
    And while we do love seeing our account holders face-to-face, if you don’t have the time to visit one of our branches, don’t worry. This entire process can be done online, either through our Online Accounts Area or via the secure app.
    If you want to talk about getting the best loan rates, or anything else related to borrowing, feel free to speak with one of our highly trained members of staff today.
    Northern Community Bank’s quotations are free and involve no set-up fees. This means you have all the time in the world to find the best loan out there for you.

     

  4. Say ‘I Do’ To the Wedding of Your Dreams With A Wedding Loan From Northern Community Bank

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    Just like wedding cakes, a wedding loan can come in all shapes and sizes. Finding one that doesn’t leave a bad taste in your mouth though isn’t always easy.
    Sticking to a wedding budget is about as easy as sticking to a pre-wedding diet. No matter how hard you try, you can’t stop thinking about chocolate fountains. In your defence, this is your special day. It’s a once (or maybe second) in a lifetime experience. And everything should be perfect.
    If you want an owl to swoop in and deliver the rings during the ceremony, then get that owl.
    If you want fireworks to rival London on New Year’s Eve, go for it.
    If you want a full orchestra to play ‘My Heart Will Go On’ while you’re both carried out on thrones…then, well you might be taking it a little too far now.
    The fact remains, weddings do not come cheap. But if you’re looking for ‘something borrowed’, good luck charms don’t come much better than Northern Community Bank wedding loans.

    Why Northern Community Bank wedding loans are a match made in heaven

    Weddings are stressful enough without wedding loans bringing even more pressure to the top table.
    At Northern Community Bank, we do more than offer flexible and affordable loans up to £15,000 – we do so in a way that means the honeymoon period never ends.
    Whether you’re looking to cover venue costs, catering expenses, the perfect dress, or the perfect honeymoon, our loan options are designed to give you peace of mind and financial flexibility.
    Your wedding day will be made up of countless magical moments, but life doesn’t stop once you return home from the honeymoon. That’s why we tailor loan repayments to each account holder’s specific needs. By spreading your costs out over a manageable period, we’re giving you the freedom to start planning a future together, rather than worrying about repayments and spiralling debt.
    And if you come home to a stack of envelopes stuffed with money, you’re more than welcome to use that money to pay off the loan – just like there’s no set-up fees, there’s no early settlement fees either. Or you could spend it all on the house, or the car, or another holiday. It’s completely your choice.

    How long does a wedding loan take to process

    We’ll have your loan application dealt with quicker than you can say ‘I do’.
    Ok, maybe not that quick. More often than not though, decisions are made within 48 working hours. So, if you’re looking to elope, look no further.
    Just like a wedding planner, we’re committed to making the whole wedding loan process as smooth and pain-free as possible. We’re with you every step of the way, and if you have any questions, all you have to do is ask.
    We even offer free, no obligation loan quotes, so you can take the time to weigh up any pros and cons before coming to a decision. So why not speak to our friendly staff today.

     

  5. Northern Community Bank could hold the key to your cheap car finance journey

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    The road to cheap car finance is often paved with nasty potholes and eye-wateringly expensive detours.
    For a far less bumpy ride, why not come and grab a lift with Northern Community Bank – we’ll even let you choose the music.
    Whether you’re after a car for yourself, or you’re looking to pick up a gift for a loved one, searching for a new motor is a fun and exciting experience. Or at least it should be.
    Being sat in a car showroom while a salesperson throws around industry jargon like confetti can leave your head spinning. You could even believe the ‘cheap car finance’ deal they’ve given you is actually in your best interest.
    Now, at Northern Community Bank, we’re not exactly experts when it comes to tinkering under bonnets. But we do know a thing or two about affordable loans.
    Which is why, if you are currently on the lookout for a cheap car finance deal, you should definitely make us one of your pitstops.

    How Northern Community Bank can help you with cheap car finance

    You won’t have to endure any sales pitches from our staff. We just want to make buying a car as simple as possible for you.
    Applying for a Northern Community Bank car loan gives you the freedom to shop around, allowing you to find the very best deal for your money.
    We offer loans up to £15,000, so you could potentially have enough to look at buying your new or used car outright. This then means in a few years’ time you can look to upgrade, sell, modify, or keep – all on your terms.
    There’s also no impending balloon payment to worry about, no over-mileage charges, no damage charges. In fact, with a Northern Community Bank car loan, there’s no set-up fees or early settlement penalties.
    And unlike car finance, which is often a set monthly price based on the value of the car, our repayments are tailored to suit you and your circumstances.

    Take our cheap car finance challenge

    We pride ourselves on our honesty and transparency here at Northern Community Bank.
    That’s why we don’t mind saying there may be better cheap car finance deals out there.
    All we are asking is that you take the time to see what we can offer.
    As Northern Community Bank is a not-for-profit organisation, we don’t need to charge excessive rates in order to bring more money in.
    We don’t have any outside shareholders to satisfy. This means all our money goes back into the community, enabling us to keep interest rates as low as they can possibly be.
    We aim to make the whole application process as straightforward as possible, too.
    Each 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. Applicants can also expect a decision within 48 working hours.
    Apply online, or contact a member of staff, today, and you could be driving away in the car of your dreams in no time at all.

  6. When the unexpected happens, Northern Community Bank and our emergency loans could be the help that you need

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    Emergency loans don’t sound like an appealing proposition, do they? After all, borrowing money can be scary enough even if you have the time to carefully and thoroughly research all your options. Sadly, time is often a luxury few can afford when the universe ‘throws a spanner in the works’ and leaves our finances in desperate disarray.
    The car breaking down. The washing machine packing in. An out-of-the-blue bill landing on the doormat. Unexpected expenses are the bane of many people’s existence.
    And while desperate times often call for desperate measures – when we’re talking about emergency loans, that should definitely never be the case.
    Panic can lead to payday lenders. And payday lenders can lead to a whole world of financial misery.
    At Northern Community Bank, we make it our mission to ensure any emergency loans you take out with us don’t cause further emergencies down the road.

    5 reasons you should come to Northern Community Bank for emergency loans 

    1. Interest rates. What you see is what you get with Northern Community Bank. There’s no hidden charges or sneaky fees hiding in the background waiting to jump out once you’ve signed on the dotted line. We tailor repayments to suit you, not us. Our repayments will be based on your affordability, meaning you won’t be overstretched. If you do want to repay early there will be no early penalty fees.
    2. Fast decisions. One of the main reasons people end up plumping for payday loans is because of the allure of speedy payments. We aim to have a decision for you within 48 working hours –as long as we have all the required information. And once that decision has been made, the money will be transferred to your account usually within two hours.
    3. At Northern Community Bank, we do perform credit history checks on some applications. But that doesn’t mean we instantly rule out people who may have a poor rating. What sets Northern Community Bank apart from other lenders is the fact we don’t operate on a computer says ‘no’ basis. Each and every application we receive is assessed individually by a real person. This means your affordability, income, expenditure, payment history are all taken into account.  And for those solely looking for no credit check loans, we have our £500 family loan and saving scheme, which requires an affordability check, and anyone in receipt of child benefit can apply.
    4. Our staff are the best. Ok, of course, we’re going to say that – but it really is true. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to answer any questions or concerns you might have around emergency loans.
    5. Trust. We’ve been doing this for a long time –41 years to be precise. And as an ethical, not-for-profit financial co-operative you can rest safe in the knowledge that you and your family are in the safest pair of hands when it comes to emergency loans.

    If you have any questions or would like to talk through any of Northern Community Bank’s other services, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01282 691333.

  7. If you’re searching for direct lenders for bad credit then Northern Community Bank could help

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    We don’t know exactly how many hours a year people spend scouring the internet searching for ‘direct lenders for bad credit’…but we’re confident it’s a lot.
    If you happen to be one of them, then call off the search party. You’ve just found what you were looking for.
    Having a poor credit score is a nightmare for so many people across the UK.
    Not only can it make it more difficult to get a mortgage, credit card, personal loan, overdraft or car finance, it also means you’re likely to be charged a higher interest rate even if your application is successful.
    The biggest problem with credit is that it can be affected by so many different factors. Including missing payments, regularly setting up new accounts, applying for credit too often, having little or no credit history.
    Maintaining a high credit score truly is a lifelong battle. But even if you are somebody who’s suffered the odd wound along the way, Northern Community Bank is here to tell you it’s not the end of the world.

    Is Northern Community Bank like a bank?

    Are we a direct lender like a bank? Yes. So, rather than searching for loans through an online broker; like banks, we cut out the middleman. This means you know exactly who you are borrowing from.
    That is where the similarities end though.
    Unlike banks, we put people ahead of profit, and we do that by offering easy, affordable loans to those in the community who need it.
    From helping out in a time of financial difficulty, to affording a large purchase like a car, caravan or Caribbean cruise, loans can be real lifesavers.
    And bad credit shouldn’t be the reason a person is denied one.
    We fully understand why people may have had issues with credit in the past. So, by carefully assessing each applicant’s personal circumstance, we are able to make loan decisions based on affordability (not just your credit score) and tailor repayments to suit you.
    And while other lenders often advertise Representative APR. With us, the rate we quote you is the rate you pay, every time.

    How long does the application process take?

    If you’ve been searching for ‘direct lenders for bad credit’ online, then there’s a good chance you need financial help sooner rather than later.
    Northern Community Bank aims to have all loan decisions made within 48 working hours – as long as we have all the relevant information. And if the green light is given, the money can then be transferred into your account that same day.
    What’s more, the entire application process can be done from the comfort of your own home.
    Now, don’t get us wrong, we love seeing our account holders face-to-face, but we know that’s not always possible.
    So all you need to do is remember these six words – apply online, decision online, sign online. It really is as simple as that.
    And if you’d still like a little of that human touch, we’re only a phone call away – 01282 691333. 

  8. How Northern Community Bank’s family loans can help you in the fight against inflation

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    There’s nothing more important than family. And for Northern Community Bank, there’s nothing more important than family loans. You don’t need to watch the news every day to know times are hard. A trip to your local supermarket with a calculator will tell you that.
    If ‘pandemic’ was the word of 2020, ‘inflation’ has a real chance of being 2023’s
    The ongoing (it’s beginning to feel like never-ending) cost-of-living crisis means more and more people are struggling to afford just the essentials right now.
    And even for those who can, life’s perks – holidays, new cars, a new kitchen – are becoming increasingly difficult to budget for.
    Northern Community Bank’s family loans offer respite from the mounting bills. A chance for you to get your finances in order, or an opportunity for you to treat your family to a well-earned break.
    Whatever you need the money for, our family loans are here for you.

    Do Northern Community Bank’s family loans require a credit check?

    Credit check. The dreaded scourge of many a loan applicant.
    At Northern Community Bank, we don’t believe a person should be penalised for mistakes or choices from years ago.
    That’s one of the reasons we introduced our £500 Family Loan & Saving Scheme. It lets account holders borrow money without a credit check, and use their child benefit for repayments. All applicants have to do is fill out a simple loan application, complete a straightforward affordability assessment, and then wait for one of our dedicated staff members to get in touch.
    We actually aim to reach a decision within 48 working hours, and if successful can make a £500 BACS payment that same day.
    On top of this, our decisions are made by real people – not computers – so you know your application is being looked at fairly, thoroughly and professionally.

    Can I apply for a larger loan?

    With Northern Community Bank, you can apply for loans from £150 right up to £15,000.
    No set-up fees, no late payment penalties, no early settlement penalties. Just good, honest loans at highly competitive interest rates, with repayment plans carefully tailored to suit your financial circumstances.
    For four decades, we have prided ourselves on being there for our account holders.
    In that time, we have provided more than £90 million in loans to the community. As an ethical, not-for-profit financial co–operative, we are able to ensure all this money remains within your community, instead of lining the pockets of external shareholders.
    Our word of the year never changes – ‘family’.
    If you would like to talk to us about joining the Northern Community Bank family, or you would like to find out more about family loans, then our staff are always on hand, ready to help. Just call 01282 691333.

  9. Easter break or summer escape? Get a holiday loan with Northern Community Bank today

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    With Easter just around the corner, and summer on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get a holiday loan.
    What’s on your bucket (and spade) list this year?
    Visiting Australia’s Great Barrier Reef? Soaring over the Grand Canyon in a helicopter? Spotting the Big Five on a once-in-a-lifetime Kenyan safari?
    Or would a family holiday just anywhere in the sun be your dream ticket?
    It’s no secret that trips with a pretty view cost a pretty penny – even if that view happens to be right here in the UK.
    Travel, accommodation, food, drink, activities, a new holiday wardrobe.
    Once those expenses start adding up, a dream getaway can suddenly begin to feel like an episode of Holiday Hell.
    One option that’s almost certain to ease any worries or concerns is to get a holiday loan with Northern Community Bank. Here’s why:

    Why should I get a holiday loan with Northern Community Bank?

    Small holiday loans are, typically, only available from high-cost lenders. This can leave you with more than sunburn to worry about after a well-deserved break.
    At Northern Community Bank, we want you to come back from your sun-kissed holiday rested, relaxed and recharged.
    We’re able to do this not just through offering highly competitive interest rates, but also because we spread the costs over a manageable period, with repayments tailored to suit you.
    Northern Community Bank is a not-for-profit organisation, which means the only interests we serve are that of our account holders, and our community.
    This means there’s no setup fees or early settlement penalties. All our savings and loans come with a free bereavement fund benefit.
    On top of that, all our account holders are encouraged to take advantage of the Northern Community Bank ‘Save as you Borrow’ scheme, helping to ensure you have a few pennies set aside for your next trip.

    How long does it take to get a holiday loan with Northern Community Bank?

    Have you ever come across a last-minute holiday deal that’s too good to turn down?
    Having money available within a matter of days can give you the flexibility to shop around to get the best deal. Giving you the chance to make the most of an out-of-this-world offer.
    Northern Community Bank loan decisions are made by people, not computers. As long as we have all the necessary information, that decision will be made within 48 working hours.
    Once a loan has been approved, a BACS payment can be made on the same day. Before you know it, you’ll be digging out your passport, packing that case, and heading out the door.
    Whether that family adventure is a weekend trip to the seaside or exploring a whole new place for the first time, you can rest safe in the knowledge that it’s been covered by an affordable Northern Community Bank holiday loan.

  10. How Northern Community Bank can save the day when it comes to same day loans

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    If you’re searching for same day loans, then chances are time is of the essence.
    Even if you feel right up against the clock though, we would always recommend taking a few moments to weigh up your options.
    Otherwise, you may just find yourself trapped in a debt spiral you can’t break free from.
    Unexpected costs are bound to pop up from time to time.
    While nobody likes spending money on car repairs, or a broken boiler, or yet another rising bill; needs must.
    For some, these unforeseen expenses are a minor inconvenience. For others, they can feel like the end of the world.
    If that is the case, take a breath, speak to your family and friends, and if money is still an urgent issue – contact us.

    5 reasons why you should contact Northern Community Bank about same day loans

    1. Speed. The majority of our loan applications are processed within two working days, as long as we’ve been provided with all the information we need. If your application is successful, the loan will then be transferred to your bank account immediately.

    2. The human touch. All of our applications are assessed by good old-fashioned humans, not computers. By carefully assessing each applicant’s personal circumstances, we’re able to make loan decisions based on affordability (not just a credit score).

    3. Affordable. Our loans come with competitive interest rates, and repayments are tailored to suit your financial circumstances.

    4. What you see is what you get. With Northern Community Bank, there’s no sneaky set-up fees or unjust early settlement penalties. On the contrary, we want to set you up for the future, with initiatives like our Save As You Borrow Scheme, which encourages account holders to put something aside for a rainy day.

    5. Customer service. Whether it’s advice on same day loans or something else, our friendly, helpful and knowledgeable members of staff will always go that extra mile to ensure you’re getting the assistance you need.

    Do I have to come into a Northern Community Bank branch?

    We love nothing more than our account holders – or potential account holders – popping into one of our branches to say ‘hello’.
    But we know that’s not always possible, or desirable, especially if you’re on the hunt for same day loans.
    Our secure mobile app allows online loan applications to be completed and signed for from your phone, making access to quick loans quicker than ever before.
    And don’t worry, we’re still available to contact by telephone, if you would like to experience some of that first-class customer service first hand.

     

  11. Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

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    Mother’s Day is a special occasion celebrated worldwide to honour the mothers and mother figures in our lives. It’s a day to express our gratitude and appreciation for everything they do for us. If you’re looking for gift ideas to make your mum feel special and loved, here are some great options to consider:

    1. Personalised Gifts: A personalised gift is a thoughtful way to show your mother how much you care. Consider a personalised photo album, or a custom-made jewellery piece. These gifts are not only unique but also carry a personal touch that your mum is sure to appreciate.
    2. Spa Treatments: Mums work hard, and they deserve to pamper themselves. Treat your mum to a day at the spa, where she can relax and unwind with a massage, facial, or other beauty treatments. It’s a great way to show her that you care about her well-being.
    3. Kitchen Gadgets: If your mother loves to cook, consider getting her a new kitchen gadget. From a high-end blender to a new set of pots and pans, there are plenty of options to choose from. Plus, you may benefit from the delicious meals she’ll prepare with her new gadget!
    4. Subscription Box: A subscription box is a gift that keeps on giving. You can choose a box tailored to your mum’s interests, such as a book club, beauty products, or gourmet food items. She’ll receive a surprise package every month, reminding her of how much you love and appreciate her.
    5. Handmade Gifts: If you’re on a budget, a handmade gift is a heartfelt way to show your mum how much she means to you. Consider making her a homemade card, baking her favourite dessert, or creating a scrapbook filled with your favourite memories together.
    6. Outdoor Gear: If your mother enjoys spending time outdoors, consider getting her some new gear. From a new hiking backpack to a pair of binoculars for birdwatching, there are plenty of options to choose from. It’s a great way to encourage her to spend more time in nature and stay active.
    7. Experience Gifts: Sometimes the best gift is an experience. Consider taking your mother on a weekend getaway, a cooking class, or a concert she’s been wanting to see. It’s a great way to create lasting memories and show your mother how much she means to you.

    There are plenty of gift options to choose from to make your mum feel special on Mother’s Day. Whether you choose a personalised gift, a day at the spa, or a handmade present, the most important thing is to show your mother how much you appreciate everything she does for you.

  12. The Northern Community Bank 41st AGM sees £653,000 back to members and £20,000 in charitable donations in 2023

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    Northern Community Bank announces at the 41st AGM a 2% dividend back to account holders in 2023 and makes charitable donations which include warm spots and wellness hubs.

    On Friday 3rd March, Northern Community Bank account holders attended the second hybrid AGM, which after the success from last year, allowed account holders to attend both in person and virtually. Held at Burnley Football Club’s 1882 lounge, account holders voted in favour of providing the charitable donations to much-needed organisations providing help and support to the community in many ways.

    Those in attendance heard how the not-for-profit community bank have made ten donations totaling £10,000 to many local charities including SafeNet, Colne Youth Action group, Rossendale Responsible Animal Rescue, Derian House Children’s Hospice, Millbank Wellbeing Centre, New Neighbours Together, Fellrunner, Ignite Penrith, and Autism Support Allerdale & Copeland.

    Lisa Durkin from SafeNet explained at the AGM what the £1000 donation means to them and how it will help domestic abuse survivors who need their help.

    “Your donation is really valuable to us and will enable us to do some really great recovery work with families to help them move on and stay safe once they have moved on from their abusive relationship”.

    Whilst Sarah Cockburn-Price from Colne Youth Action Group highlighted how the donation will be used by the charity.

    “Our work is helping we are making a difference. The anti-social levels in Colne have dropped. These types of donations allow us to keep offering all sorts of activities to the young people of Colne.”

    Northern Community Bank President Gerard Spain also announced that savers would benefit on a 2% dividend on savings due to another year of incredible growth, and borrowers would be rewarded with a loan interest rebate of 15%.

    “We can’t stand still, we’ve got to continue to develop, continue to grow and prosper. We need to ensure during these difficult economic times we can deliver our services to more people who can benefit from the services we provide. We will be giving our account holders back £653,000 in dividends and loan interest rebate.  I challenge any bank to be able to give that back to any of their savers or borrowers.”