A £300 loan from Northern Community Bank could help when unexpected expenses leave you short.
£300 might not sound like a life-changing amount of money. But when something unexpected crops up, it can make a world of difference.
Perhaps the washing machine has finally given up the ghost. Or your car has decided it’s had enough, just when you need it most.
Whatever the reason, finding a few hundred pounds at short notice isn’t always easy. Especially when you’ve already got bills to pay and a household budget to keep on track.
And while borrowing thousands of pounds might feel like a big commitment, sometimes all you need is a little help to get things sorted.
That’s where a smaller loan could come in handy.
At Northern Community Bank, we know that life’s little surprises don’t always wait until payday. That’s why we introduced our £300 Starter Loan, giving new account holders a little extra help when they need it most.
Getting started with a £300 loan
So, how does our Starter Loan work? Well, it’s pretty straightforward.
New account holders can borrow £300, with repayments spread over 13 months.
You’ll need a minimum income of £125 per week to apply, but there’s no credit check. Instead, we look at your income and outgoings to make sure the repayments are affordable.
The APR is fixed at 42.6%, with no set-up fees or early repayment charges.
And unlike payday lenders, which can charge extremely high interest rates, we offer a more structured way to borrow, with clear repayments and no hidden fees.
Applying is simple, too. You can do it all online, from the comfort of your own home, without having to make an appointment or pop into a branch.
And because we believe in the personal touch, every application is assessed by a real person, not a computer. We aim to make a decision within two working days, so you won’t be kept waiting too long.
More than just a loan
At Northern Community Bank, we’re about much more than lending money. We want to help our account holders feel more confident about their finances and build a little security for the future.
And we believe saving is a great place to start.
That’s why, with our Starter Loan, you’ll put aside £10 a month through our ‘Save as you Borrow’ scheme while making your loan repayments.
So, by the time you’ve paid off your loan, you’ll have £130 saved up. That’s money you didn’t have before, and a useful little cushion for the next unexpected expense life throws your way.
Helping people build that kind of financial security is what we’re all about. We’re proud to be a not-for-profit community bank, which means we’re here for our account holders, not to make money for shareholders.
And we believe in giving something back. So, when we’re able to, we share a little of that success as a thank you for your continued support.
Because when our community thrives, we all benefit. And that’s something we’re proud to be part of.
Looking for ways to buy Christmas gifts on a budget? From Secret Santa to smarter shopping, here are a few ways to keep Christmas merry without leaving your bank balance feeling anything but bright.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. It’s also, for many, the most expensive.
No matter how much you try to keep costs down, Christmas has a funny way of making your money disappear faster than Father Christmas up a chimney.
But buying Christmas gifts on a budget doesn’t mean being a Scrooge.
Start by deciding how much you can realistically afford to spend. And stick to it. That extra little present might seem harmless, but a few of those soon add up.
It’s also worth having a chat with family and friends about spending limits. Chances are, they’ll be relieved you’ve brought it up.
Buying for a big group? Secret Santa can save everyone a small fortune. And don’t leave everything until Christmas Eve. Shopping early gives you more time to compare prices and hunt down bargains.
Of course, even with the best planning, Christmas can still stretch your finances. And if you find yourself needing a little extra help, a loan from Northern Community Bank could be worth considering.
Need a little extra Christmas cash?
If you have done your sums and decided borrowing is affordable, a loan from Northern Community Bank could help cover Christmas costs, including presents for your nearest and dearest.
We offer loans from £150 to £15,000, so there’s no need to borrow more than you actually need.
Standard Loans can be repaid over 12 to 60 months, depending on how much you borrow and what you can afford.
APR ranges from 12.7% to 42.6% on a reducing balance, with no set-up fees or early repayment charges.
You’ll also save a little alongside your repayments through the bank’s ‘Save as you Borrow’ scheme.
And there’s no need to brave the Christmas shopping crowds to apply. Everything can be done online, from the comfort of your sofa.
Northern Community Bank: Not just for Christmas
Loans aren’t just for Christmas. They’re for all sorts of life’s little surprises, from replacing a broken washing machine to covering the cost of something you’ve been planning for months.
And here at Northern Community Bank, we’re about much more than lending money.
We’re proud to be a not-for-profit community bank, which means we can offer competitive interest rates while putting our account holders first.
We also believe there’s no substitute for the human touch. That’s why our loan applications are looked at by real people (not elves), rather than leaving everything to a computer. And we make our decisions within two working days.
We’ve also got a secure mobile app and online accounts area, so you can keep an eye on your money without leaving the sofa.
And we believe in giving something back to our account holders. That’s why, when the community bank performs well, we’re able to share a little of that success with them as a thank you for their support.
So, whether you’re buying Christmas gifts on a budget or planning for the year ahead, we’re here to help. And that’s something worth raising a glass of Christmas cheer to.
As the nights draw in, the leaves begin to fall and Halloween creeps ever closer, there’s no better time to enjoy a good ghost story! And luckily for us, there are plenty of local ghost stories hiding right on our doorstep.
From haunted castles and mysterious figures to centuries-old legends passed down through generations, Lancashire, Cumbria and North Yorkshire have their fair share of stories that might just send a shiver down your spine.
So, grab yourself a cuppa, get comfortable and perhaps leave a light on… because we’re taking a spooky little trip through some of the most mysterious places in our communities.
Whether you’re a believer or a sceptic, these local legends are sure to get you into the Halloween spirit!
1. The Witches of Pendle Hill – Lancashire
Standing proudly above the Lancashire countryside, Pendle Hill is famous for its breathtaking views. But beneath its peaceful appearance lies one of England’s most chilling chapters of history.
In 1612, twelve people from the Pendle area were accused of witchcraft. One died in prison, another was found not guilty, and the remaining ten were executed following trials fuelled by fear, suspicion and superstition.
More than 400 years later, the story of the Pendle Witches remains one of Lancashire’s best-known legends, with tales of ghostly figures and mysterious happenings continuing to surround the hill.
Today, Pendle attracts curious visitors and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
Would you fancy a moonlit walk around Pendle Hill? We think we’ll stick to visiting in daylight!
2. The Lady Who Never Left – Samlesbury Hall, Preston
With its beautiful black-and-white timbered exterior, Samlesbury Hall looks like something straight out of a storybook.
But according to local legend, this historic Lancashire house has a few residents who have never quite moved out!
Its most famous ghost is Lady Dorothea Southworth, also known as the White Lady. Legend tells of a young woman whose forbidden romance ended in heartbreak, and whose spirit is said to wander the hall and its grounds.
Over the years, visitors and staff have reported mysterious sightings and unexplained encounters. In fact, Samlesbury Hall takes its ghostly reputation so seriously that it has its own Ghost Room and a project dedicated to recording accounts of unusual experiences.
A beautiful historic house with a mysterious lady wandering the corridors? We’ll admire this one from a safe distance, thank you!
3. The Show Must Go On… Even After Death! – Morecambe Winter Gardens
They say the show must go on, but at Morecambe Winter Gardens, it seems some performers may have taken that saying a little too seriously!
Originally opened as the Victoria Pavilion Theatre in 1897, this magnificent building has entertained generations of visitors. However, it’s also gained a reputation for some rather unusual backstage activity.
According to local ghost stories shared by Visit Lancashire, mysterious shadows have supposedly moved across the stage, while an unseen presence has been known to push or poke unsuspecting performers and guests.
One of the theatre’s best-known ghostly residents is said to be a seamstress who dreamed of becoming a performer. According to legend, she still lingers around the dressing rooms.
Perhaps she’s simply waiting for her big moment in the spotlight!
Either way, we wouldn’t fancy being the last person to turn off the theatre lights.
4. The Boy Who Never Left – Lancaster Castle
Lancaster Castle has stood over the city for centuries, and with nearly 1,000 years of history behind its walls, it’s certainly seen its fair share of drama.
But one of its most intriguing ghost stories involves a little boy called Thomas, who is said to appear in one of the castle’s old prison cells.
According to an account shared by a Lancaster Castle tour guide, Thomas has reportedly been spotted wearing clothes from the 1890s, complete with a flat cap and ankle-length trousers.
And he’s not the only mysterious visitor!
In another ghostly tale recorded by Lancashire Museums, a tour guide reportedly entered a cell with five visitors, only to discover that just four emerged. Even more strangely, the records apparently confirmed that five people had joined the tour!
Was it a simple misunderstanding, or had someone decided to make an unexpected appearance?
Whatever the explanation, we’d certainly be counting everyone before leaving!
5. The Jester Who Had the Last Laugh – Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass
If there’s one ghost who seems determined to keep causing mischief, it’s Tom Fool of Muncaster Castle!
Thomas Skelton, better known as Tom Fool, was a jester at the Cumbrian castle during the 16th century. But according to legend, his practical jokes weren’t always particularly funny.
One tale suggests he deliberately gave travellers dangerous directions across the nearby estuary, leading them towards treacherous quicksand.
And it seems his mischievous reputation has followed him into the afterlife!
According to Muncaster Castle’s own ghost stories, Tom Fool’s spirit is still said to play tricks on visitors and staff, with equipment mysteriously refusing to work.
The castle’s Tapestry Room is also famous for reported ghostly footsteps, turning door handles and the sound of a crying child.
A jester who never stopped playing tricks? Perhaps some people really don’t know when to call it a day!
6. The Monk Who Lost His Head – Furness Abbey, Barrow-in-Furness
The beautiful ruins of Furness Abbey are impressive enough during daylight hours. But when darkness falls, local legend suggests you might encounter a rather unusual visitor.
A headless monk on horseback!
According to local folklore surrounding Furness Abbey, the ghostly rider is said to pass beneath the sandstone arch near the old Abbey Tavern, supposedly still roaming the area centuries after his death.
Some versions of the tale link the unfortunate monk to Scottish raids on Furness in 1316. But whether there’s any truth behind his ghostly appearance remains a mystery.
And he’s not the only mysterious figure associated with the abbey!
Other stories tell of a monk who disappears into a wall and a mysterious White Lady wandering among the ruins.
With its towering sandstone arches and centuries of history, Furness Abbey certainly provides the perfect setting for a spooky story.
Although, if we spotted a headless horseman approaching, we probably wouldn’t hang around to ask for directions!
7. The Girl in the Castle – Skipton Castle, North Yorkshire
Our final spooky stop takes us to Skipton Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England.
With its ancient stone walls, winding passages and centuries of history, it’s exactly the sort of place you’d expect to find a ghost story or two.
In 2016, a visitor named Mark Whitaker claimed to have captured something rather unusual while taking photographs around the castle.
When he looked at his pictures later, he noticed what appeared to be a mysterious figure wearing a long white dress and bonnet.
The figure, which he believed resembled a young girl in period clothing, hadn’t been noticed when the photograph was taken.
Was it a trick of the light, an unusual shadow or something a little more mysterious?
Perhaps next time you take a photograph at a historic castle, you might want to check who’s standing in the background!
Have You Heard Something Go Bump in the Night?
From mischievous jesters and mysterious ladies to haunted theatres and headless horsemen, it seems our communities have no shortage of spooky stories to tell!
Of course, whether these ghostly encounters are real or simply legends passed down through generations is all part of the mystery.
But that’s what makes a good ghost story so much fun, isn’t it?
So, wherever you are this Halloween, we hope you have a wonderfully spooky time! And remember… if you hear something go bump in the night, it might be worth checking the cat first!
Cheap car finance loans might look tempting, but taking a little time to compare the total cost could save you money.
Everyone’s in a hurry these days. From getting the kids out of the door to answering that email marked “urgent”, everything feels like it’s moving at 100mph.
Buying a car can be exactly the same.
You spot one you like, take it for a quick spin and suddenly you’ve gone from 0 to talking monthly payments in about five minutes flat.
The finance offered by a dealership can be convenient, but convenient doesn’t automatically mean cheapest.
At Northern Community Bank, our rate on loans over £3,000 is 12.7% APR. So before accepting the finance offered with the car, it’s worth comparing the rate and the total amount you’ll repay.
You might be surprised by the difference.
What looks like a cheap car finance loan isn’t always the cheapest way to fund your car.
Five reasons a Northern Community Bank loan could put you in the driving seat
You can shop around. Sorting the car and finance in one place is convenient, but it can also make it harder to compare properly. With a Northern Community Bank car loan, you can arrange the borrowing separately and then shop around for the best deal on the car itself.
The car is yours.Northern Community Bank offers car loans of up to £15,000, meaning you can buy a new or used car outright. Once you’ve bought it, it’s yours to keep, sell, upgrade or modify whenever you like.
No balloon payment waiting. Some finance deals keep monthly payments down by leaving a large final payment at the end. With a Northern Community Bank car loan, there’s no balloon payment waiting around the corner. There are no mileage limits or damage charges either, because you own the car.
Compare your rate with our 12.7% APR. If you’re borrowing more than £3,000 with Northern Community Bank, our loan rate is 12.7% APR. When you’re comparing cheap car finance loans, don’t just look at the monthly repayment. Check the APR, the total amount repayable and whether there are any additional payments or conditions attached. Dealer finance may be advertised with a Representative APR, so the rate you’re actually offered may be different from the headline figure.
Repayments can work around you. Car finance packages can sometimes feel a bit one-size-fits-all. Northern Community Bank takes a more personal approach, with loan decisions made by real people and repayment options based around your circumstances.
We’ve been on this journey for four decades
Northern Community Bank has been helping people across our communities borrow and save for around four decades now.
Cars might have changed quite a bit in that time, but the idea behind what we do hasn’t.
We’re a not-for-profit community bank, which means there are no outside shareholders taking a cut. Instead, our focus is on supporting the people who bank with us and keeping money working within the communities we serve.
That relationship doesn’t end when you drive away in your new car either. Through Save as You Borrow, you can gradually build up savings alongside your repayments, helping to leave you in a stronger position once the loan is finished.
Eligible savings and loans can also include a free bereavement fund benefit, subject to scheme rules, while account holders may share in the success of the community bank when it performs well.
So before accepting the finance offered at the dealership, compare it with us. If you’re looking to borrow more than £3,000 for your next car, our rate is 12.7% APR.
Look at the APR. Look at the total amount you’ll repay. Look at any additional payments or restrictions. Then decide which option works best for you.
Ready to compare? See what a Northern Community Bank Car Loan could cost you.
Low cost short term loans can give you a bit of breathing room without turning a temporary problem into a much bigger one.
Lots of unexpected things in life are great. Finding a tenner in an old coat pocket. Waking up before your alarm and realising you’ve still got an hour left.
Unfortunately, the universe has a wonderful way of evening things out.
The car starts making a noise it definitely wasn’t making yesterday. The washing machine gives up halfway through a load. Or an expense lands at precisely the point in the month when you could really have done without it.
At Northern Community Bank, we offer low cost short term loans designed to help people get over those annoying financial bumps in the road without turning to expensive forms of borrowing.
You’ll know what you’re repaying from the start, with an agreed repayment plan based around what you can realistically afford.
Because sometimes you don’t need thousands of pounds or years of borrowing. You just need a bit of breathing room to get something sorted and carry on with life.
What do people use low cost short term loans for?
There isn’t really such a thing as a convenient unexpected expense.
One of the most common reasons people come to us is car trouble. If you rely on your car to get to work, do the school run or simply get around, a repair can’t always wait until the next payday.
Household appliances are another big one. Fridges and washing machines have a habit of breaking when you least want them to (not that there’s ever really a good time) and replacing them can leave a sizeable hole in the monthly budget.
We also see people borrowing to cover urgent household repairs, particularly when something needs dealing with straight away rather than putting off for a few months.
Other account holders might need help with an unexpected bill or another one-off cost they hadn’t budgeted for.
That’s why we’ll always look at your circumstances to see what you can realistically repay, rather than encouraging you to borrow more than you need.
Short term loans, long term support
Yes, Northern Community Bank can help with the short-term stuff.
Our low cost short term loans can help get the car back on the road, replace the appliance that has suddenly packed in or make an unexpected bill a little less painful.
But we’re not just here for the emergency.
As a community bank, we want to help account holders build a stronger financial position over time too.
One way we do that is through our Save as You Borrow approach. While you repay your loan, you also build up savings alongside it.
It might only feel like a small amount at first, but by the time the loan is paid off you’ve also started creating a tidy little savings buffer of your own.
That means the next unexpected expense might not feel as daunting. And, with a bit of luck, the universe might even owe you one.
From new shoes and blazers to PE kits, bags and stationery, going back to school can soon add up. If you need help with school uniform costs, Northern Community Bank’s £500 Family Loan could help make the sums a little easier.
No sooner have the words “school’s out for summer” rung out than the back-to-school posts start popping up everywhere.
And for parents, that means one thing: time to sort the uniform. Actually, make that two things. There’s the stationery as well. Oh, and the new PE kit. Shoes. Bag. Calculator. Before you know it, the shopping list is starting to look more like homework.
And that’s just for one child.
The average total uniform cost is around £343 for a primary school pupil and £442 for a secondary school pupil, including PE kit. So, it’s hardly surprising that plenty of families need a little help with school uniform costs. Those bills can also arrive after a summer of days out, holidays and keeping the kids entertained. Our £500 Family Loan is designed to help spread the cost rather than having to find everything at once.
A £500 helping hand before the school bell rings
Northern Community Bank’s Family Loan and Saving Scheme has already helped thousands of families with those back-to-school expenses.
It can provide up to £500 to help with school uniform costs and all those extras that tend to sneak onto the list. Because, as every parent knows, a new uniform rarely means just buying a couple of shirts and calling it a day.
We assess what you can afford rather than carrying out a credit check, with repayments made using your Child Benefit. Repayments are tailored to keep them affordable, and you can apply online through our website or secure mobile app. We’ll usually give you a decision within 2 working days too, so there’s no need to leave everything until the night before term starts.
As well as getting help with school uniform costs now, our Save as You Borrow approach means you make regular savings alongside repaying your loan. So, while your loan balance comes down, your savings pot starts going up.
Keep at it and, by the time next summer rolls around, you could already have some money put aside towards the next round of uniforms. That deserves a gold star in our book.
Because Northern Community Bank is not-for-profit, we can put more emphasis on keeping repayments manageable rather than chasing big profits. And if you stick to your repayment schedule, it could also give your credit score a useful little boost along the way.
When the back-to-school list starts getting longer and the total at the bottom starts getting bigger, you don’t have to tackle it all in one go. Our £500 Family Loan can help with school uniform costs now, while Save as You Borrow could leave you better prepared when next September comes around.
Looking for cheap personal loans without making things more complicated than they need to be? At Northern Community Bank, we’ve been helping people borrow what they need at an affordable rate for more than 40 years.
Working somewhere like Northern Community Bank, you’re obviously going to come across a lot of numbers. Some are more memorable than others.
Take £200 million. That’s how much we’ve lent to people across the communities we serve over the past 44 years. Or £150 to £15,000, which is the range of cheap personal loans we currently offer, with repayment terms from 12 to 60 months.
But numbers only tell part of the story.
What matters just as much is what those loans actually mean to people. Sometimes it’s helping somebody deal with a bill they weren’t expecting. Other times, it might be helping with a bigger purchase they’ve been planning for months.
One account holder summed it up perfectly: “They are there at times of need and you save too so it’s a win-win situation, I highly recommend them.”
There isn’t one particular reason people come to us for cheap personal loans. Life doesn’t really work like that.
You might need a few hundred pounds to cover an unexpected expense. You might be looking at buying a car, a caravan or something else that costs a bit more. Whatever the reason, we try to keep the whole process as straightforward as possible.
Loan decisions are made by real people, not just a fancy computer automatically saying yes or no. We look at what you can realistically afford to repay rather than simply judging everything on a credit score.
We’ll usually make a decision within 2 working days and, if your application is successful, the money can be sent by BACS payment the same day.
There are no hidden fees either, and our online loan calculator lets you have a look at what different borrowing amounts could cost before you apply. You see; it’ll all pretty simple really.
A rate that is actually the rate
APR can sometimes make borrowing feel far more complicated than it needs to be.
You’ll often see lenders advertising a Representative APR, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the rate you’ll personally be offered. With Northern Community Bank, the rate we quote you is the rate you pay.
That makes comparing cheap personal loans a bit easier because you know exactly where you stand.
We’re also a not-for-profit community bank, so our focus isn’t on making as much money as possible from people who borrow from us. It’s about providing affordable financial services to the communities we serve.
Our Save as You Borrow scheme also means you can build up savings while repaying your loan, helping you put a little something aside for the future at the same time.
And because your account can be managed online or through our secure mobile app, keeping track of everything is straightforward too.
School holidays are a great opportunity to spend quality time together, explore your local area and create memories as a family. But with weeks to fill, the cost of days out, activities and meals can quickly add up.
The good news is that you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy brilliant family experiences. Across the communities we serve, there are plenty of free and affordable family days out to enjoy this summer – from exploring local history and enjoying the outdoors to discovering family events happening nearby.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for a rainy day, planning a weekend adventure or simply looking for something new to try together, we’ve rounded up some family-friendly activities to help you make the most of the summer holidays without stretching your budget.
Please remember to check individual websites before visiting, as opening times, prices and event details can change.
Enjoy free and affordable family days out wherever you live
Some of the best family days out don’t need to cost a lot. A little creativity can go a long way, and there are plenty of ways to keep children entertained while keeping spending under control.
Make the most of your local parks and green spaces
From family walks and outdoor games to picnics and nature spotting, your local parks are a great place to enjoy a low-cost day out.
Why not:
Pack a picnic and explore somewhere new
Create a nature scavenger hunt
Take a ball, bike or scooter and let children burn off some energy
Look out for wildlife and seasonal changes
Across our communities, there are plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including parks, woodland trails and countryside walks.
Look out for cinema offers and family deals
A trip to the cinema can be a lovely treat during the holidays, but it doesn’t always need to come with a big price tag.
Many cinemas offer discounted family screenings or special children’s offers during school holidays. It’s worth checking what’s available locally before booking.
Discover history, art and culture for less
Rainy summer day? Local museums and heritage attractions are a great way to explore something new while keeping costs low. Many offer free entry, making them a brilliant option for families.
Discover thousands of years of history, with collections including Egyptian artefacts, local history displays, art and more. It’s a great place for curious minds to explore different cultures and learn something new together.
Located in the heart of Preston, the Harris Museum offers a mix of art, exhibitions and fascinating collections. With changing displays and family-friendly activities, it’s a great option for a day of discovery.
Travel almost 2,000 years into the past and explore the remains of a Roman bath house in Ribchester. Children can discover how people lived during Roman Britain and see the remains of rooms once used for bathing and socialising.
More than just a museum, Tullie is a community space combining art, history, nature and events. It’s a great place for families to explore together, with regular activities and exhibitions throughout the year.
A great option for families visiting the Lake District, with exhibitions and activities designed to bring local history and nature to life.
Explore the outdoors and enjoy family adventures
Getting outside is one of the easiest ways to enjoy affordable family days out without spending a lot. From woodland walks to sculpture trails, there are plenty of places to explore.
Located near Barley, the Pendle Sculpture Trail combines history, art and adventure. Families can follow the trail to discover sculptures and ceramic plaques inspired by the story of the Pendle Witches, making it feel like a treasure hunt through the woodland.
It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while learning more about local history.
Covering hundreds of acres of countryside, Witton Country Park offers plenty of space for family walks, picnics, nature trails and outdoor play. With beautiful views and areas to explore, it’s a great place to spend a day without spending much money.
These beautiful Victorian parks provide the perfect setting for a family day out. With riverside walks, gardens, open spaces and plenty of places to stop for a picnic, they’re a lovely place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Explore local wildlife
The summer holidays are a brilliant time to discover nature. Cumbria Wildlife Trust regularly hosts events and activities designed to help families learn more about local wildlife and the environment.
Family-friendly attractions and events to enjoy this summer
Sometimes you might want to plan a bigger day out or try something completely new. There are also some fantastic family attractions and events taking place across our communities this summer.
Steeped in history, Samlesbury Hall offers families the chance to explore a historic building, gardens and woodland walks. Entry to the Hall and grounds is free, with donations welcomed to help maintain this important local attraction.
Children can also enjoy the outdoor play area and explore the fascinating stories behind this historic site.
SeaFest, St Bees
Returning for summer 2026, SeaFest celebrates the wonder of the Irish Sea with family-friendly activities, including:
Sand sculpture competitions
Marine discovery activities
Creative workshops
Storytelling
Beach activities
It’s a great example of a community event where families can enjoy a fun day out together.
While this is a paid attraction, planning ahead and budgeting for one special day out can help make it an affordable treat.
Find free family events and support near you
Local community organisations often run activities during school holidays, offering affordable family days out with ways to stay busy and meet others.
It’s worth checking:
Lancashire County Council Family Hub activities
Families across Lancashire can find local events, groups and activities through the Family Hub network.
Cumberland Family Hubs
Family hubs across Cumberland offer activities, groups and support for families throughout the year.
Westmorland and Furness Family Hub activities
Families across the area can find local events, groups and activities through the Family Hub network.
Clitheroe Castle events
Clitheroe Castle regularly hosts family activities, exhibitions and events throughout the year.
The Sands Centre, Carlisle
The Sands Centre offers a range of events and activities, including family-friendly shows and entertainment.
Simple ways to keep summer holiday costs down
A little planning can make a big difference when you’re trying to manage your money during the school holidays.
Here are some simple ideas:
Plan activities before the holidays begin
Having a few ideas ready can help avoid expensive last-minute trips when children are looking for something to do.
Mix paid days out with free activities
You don’t need every day to be a big adventure. Balance bigger treats with free activities like walks, parks, crafts and family games.
Take snacks or a picnic
Food and drinks can sometimes cost more than the activity itself. Taking your own snacks or lunch can help keep the day affordable.
Check local community pages
Libraries, family hubs, councils and community groups often share free events and activities happening nearby.
Set a holiday budget
Planning how much you’d like to spend across the holidays can help you enjoy days out while staying in control of your money.
Making memories doesn’t have to cost a fortune
Whether you’re discovering somewhere new, exploring the outdoors or enjoying a picnic closer to home, there are plenty of ways to make this summer one to remember without stretching the family budget. If you’re looking for more practical ways to make your money go further, explore our Money Matters Hub for helpful guides, tips and tools to support your financial wellbeing.
On 24 July 2025, Pennine Community Credit Union became Northern Community Bank. It was more than a new name and a new look – it was a name that better reflected who we are today and the people we serve.
Twelve months later, we’re proud to look back on everything we’ve achieved together.
A year of growth
Over the past year, more people than ever have chosen Northern Community Bank to help them save, borrow and take control of their money.
In the last 12 months:
Savings have grown from £17 million to more than £21 million.
We have welcomed 1,500 new account holders, with 800 from East Lancashire, 200 from Preston, 100 Lancaster and 400 from Cumbria.
Lending has increased from £17.5 million to £18.8 million, helping even more people access fair and affordable borrowing.
These milestones represent much more than growth. They represent families building savings for the future, people borrowing with confidence, and communities choosing a financial organisation that puts people first.
Reaching more communities
One of the reasons behind our new name was to better reflect the people we serve today.
When we first opened our doors in 1982, our roots were firmly in the Pennine area. Today, we support account holders from Burnley and Pendle to Preston, Lancaster and Cumbria.
Over the past year, we’ve been proud to see Northern Community Bank featured across regional newspapers, community publications, trade media and local radio. From Lancashire to Cumbria, our story has reached more people than ever before, helping more people discover Northern Community Bank and the support we offer.
The response from partners and community organisations has also been incredibly positive.
Burnley Councillor Afrasiab Anwar described the new name as one that “properly reflects the footprint of the organisation and the work you do,” while Julie Friend, Cumberland Social Inclusion and Housing Team Leader, said “it helps people better understand what we offer”.
Investing in a better experience
This year has also seen some exciting improvements for our account holders.
We proudly opened our new head office on Manchester Road in Burnley, creating a larger, modern space designed around the needs of our communities. The new branch provides our team with the facilities they need to support more account holders, including helping people make the most of our digital services, by managing their money through our online account and mobile app.
Alongside our new branch, we launched a refreshed mobile app, making it quicker and easier to manage accounts on the go. The updated app gives account holders a simpler way to apply for loans, see their account balances and create savings goals helping them stay connected with their money whenever and wherever they need to.
We also launched two new savings products – Northern Saver and Save the Change – giving people even more ways to build healthy savings habits and make saving part of everyday life.
Supporting our communities
Supporting our communities has always been at the heart of everything we do.
Throughout the year, we’ve continued to meet people across the communities we serve through family events, community activities, presentations and local partnerships. From the Towneley Park Family Fun Day and events with Pendle Family Hub, to supporting activities in Preston, Workington, Whitehaven and across Cumbria, these conversations help us understand the needs of the communities we serve and show more people how they can save and borrow with confidence.
Our commitment to improving financial wellbeing has also continued through our Money Matters project. Through our financial education suitcase project, we have provided over 100 primary schools with resources to help children learn about money in an engaging and practical way. We remain committed to reaching as many schools as possible and helping young people build positive money habits from an early age.
We have also continued to create welcoming spaces for younger account holders, with our Little Savers Corner at our Burnley branch providing a dedicated area where children can begin learning about money in a fun and accessible way.
We’re proud to support organisations making a real difference in our communities. This year we sponsored the Not-for-Profit Award at the Burnley Business Awards, where the category winners Burnley FC in the Community were celebrated for the fantastic work they do in the Community, and we also continued investing in our communities through donations, partnerships and community projects.
At our Annual General Meeting, we announced that £1.1 million would be returned to account holders through our Share of the Profits and Loan Interest Rebate – another reminder that, as a community bank owned by our account holders, our success is shared.
Recognition for what we do
Alongside our growth, we were delighted to receive Highly Commended in the Smart Money People Awards 2025 and to be named finalists for both Best Credit Union North and Best Credit Union Loan Provider 2026.
We also had the opportunity to represent Northern Community Bank at the Building Societies Annual Conference in Edinburgh, sharing ideas with organisations that are equally passionate about putting people first.
Still the same organisation. Still here for you.
Although our name has changed, the values that have guided us since 1982 haven’t.
We’re still owned by our account holders, not external shareholders. We’re still here to help people save, borrow and manage their money with confidence.
Our purpose remains as simple today as it was a year ago: making money easier for everyone.
If you have children, you’ll know that costs have a habit of appearing when you least expect them. One minute you’re planning a few affordable days out, the next you’re paying for school uniforms, replacing worn-out shoes or trying to stretch the budget just a little bit further. That’s where loans without credit checks can make a real difference. Northern Community Bank’s £500 Family Loan has been created for people who receive Child Benefit. It offers a straightforward way to cover everyday family expenses, without the worry of traditional credit scoring. Whether it’s making the most of the summer holidays or getting ahead before the new school term begins, the loan helps you spread the cost over a manageable period. Borrowing £500 over 50 weeks works out at around £12 per week, with total interest of £91.95 (42.6% APR).
Looking beyond your credit score
Many lenders rely heavily on automated systems that make decisions in seconds. At Northern Community Bank, we like to take a different approach. When you apply for one of our loans without credit checks, your credit score isn’t the deciding factor. Instead, real people look at your circumstances and assess whether the repayments are affordable for you. Once we have all the information we need, we’ll usually make a decision within 2 working days. If your application is successful, your loan will be paid the same day. Better still, repaying your loan can help improve your financial future. We report repayments to the credit reference agencies, helping you build a stronger credit history over time while demonstrating a reliable repayment record.
Our Loans without credit checks help you build for tomorrow
Our approach to loans without credit checks is about more than simply accessing money when you need it. The £500 Family Loan is designed to help you build stronger financial habits too. Every repayment also helps you build savings through our Save as you borrow, creating a pot of money that could help cover future unexpected costs. Repayments are tailored to suit your financial circumstances, making it easier to stay on track. Account holders who borrow and repay successfully are more likely to be able to borrow again if they need to. As a not-for-profit organisation, Northern Community Bank reinvests money back into the communities we serve rather than paying shareholders. You’ll also have access to our online accounts area and secure mobile app, to help you manage your account wherever you are, alongside free Bereavement Fund Benefit on eligible savings and loans. It’s a different way of borrowing; one that’s designed to support your family today while helping you build a stronger financial future tomorrow.
Let’s be honest; very few people wake up thinking, “Today feels like a great day to apply for a loan.”
More often than not, borrowing is about life happening. The car failing its MOT just before payday. The boiler packing up in the middle of winter. The dream holiday you and your family have been waiting years for. Or perhaps you simply want to treat yourself to something special without paying for it all at once.
Finding the best loans isn’t just about the lowest monthly payment. It’s about borrowing from an organisation you can trust, with repayments that fit your budget and no hidden catches waiting around the corner.
At Northern Community Bank, we know every borrowing story is different because we’ve been listening to them for more than four decades. That’s why we focus on making the process as straightforward and as transparent as possible.
Why thousands have chosen Northern Community Bank for the best loans
When you’re looking for the best loans, experience counts. Over the past 44 years, Northern Community Bank has lent more than £18 million to account holders, helping thousands of people spread the cost of life’s planned purchases and unexpected expenses.
Our team makes the lending decisions, not computers, so every application is considered by real people who understand that everyone’s circumstances are different. Once we’ve received all the information we need, we’ll usually make a decision within 2 working days.
Repayments are tailored to suit your financial circumstances, making it easier to borrow responsibly and comfortably. Better still, there are no setup fees, no early settlement charges and no penalties for making overpayments, so if you’re able to pay your loan off sooner, you can reduce the amount of interest you pay.
More than just a loan
A loan from Northern Community Bank is designed to do more than help with life’s mishaps and milestones.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re an ethical alternative to many traditional lenders, with money staying in the communities we serve rather than going to shareholders.
Every account holder saves while repaying their loan, helping you build a financial safety net for the future. It’s a simple habit that can reduce the need to borrow again and leave you better prepared for whatever life throws your way.
Everything can be done online or through our secure mobile app, so there’s no need to visit a branch. You can apply online, sign your agreement online and receive your decision online. You’ll also benefit from our free Bereavement Fund Benefit on eligible savings and loans, giving you extra peace of mind alongside borrowing that’s designed to put people first.
Best home improvement loans could be the difference between another summer of saying “we’ll do it next year” and finally getting those jobs ticked off the list.
Every homeowner knows how it goes. You finish one job, stand back to admire your work, and immediately spot three more things that need doing. The garden needs attention, the spare room could do with decorating, those old appliances are probably living on borrowed time.
Summer is often the perfect time to tackle home improvements. The days are longer, the weather is better (ok, that’s not a given), and it’s much easier to find the motivation to finally start crossing things off the list.
Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a larger project, the right funding can help you get started sooner and spread the cost over a manageable period.
Five popular home improvements this summer
Garden makeovers. Summer is prime time for garden projects. From new patios and fencing to decking and landscaping, improving your outdoor space can completely change how you use your home during the warmer months.
Decorating and painting. A fresh coat of paint remains one of the easiest and most affordable ways to transform a room. It’s a quick refresh that can make your home feel brighter, cleaner and more modern.
New flooring and carpets. Replacing worn flooring or tired carpets can instantly improve the look and feel of your home. It’s a popular upgrade that combines style with practicality.
Energy-efficient appliances. Many homeowners use the summer months to replace ageing appliances. Newer models can be more reliable, more efficient and cheaper to run.
Catching up on DIY jobs. Every home has a list of jobs that never quite get done. Longer evenings provide the perfect opportunity to finally tackle those repairs and improvements you’ve been putting off.
How Northern Community Bank can help
When you’re looking for the best home improvement loans, Northern Community Bank offers a straightforward and affordable solution. Sorry, the DIY skills are still down to you.
As a not-for-profit community bank, we’re often able to offer lower interest rates than many mainstream lenders. Whether you’re planning a small decorating project or a larger renovation, we offer loans to suit a range of budgets.
Every loan request is looked at individually by our team, who take the time to understand your circumstances and what you’re hoping to achieve.
Once we’ve received everything we need, decisions are usually made within 2 working days, with funds often available quickly for successful applicants.
Account holders also save alongside their loan repayments, helping them build a financial cushion for the future while tackling the project in front of them. Applications can be completed online through our secure website or mobile app, making the process simple from start to finish.
It’s all about doing what’s best for you, while you go about doing what’s best for your home.
