A regional bank is reaffirming its commitment to local neighbourhoods by donating £20,000 to community centres across Lancashire and Cumbria. The cash will help secure vital services for thousands of residents who rely on these local hubs every week.
Funding Approved by Account Holders
The funding was approved by account holders at the community bank's recent annual general meeting. The £20,000 donation is being shared equally between selected community centres that provide essential services for local people. One of the community spaces to benefit from the funding boost was Community Solutions in Accrington. The organisation provides peer support, volunteering opportunities, and practical help for people experiencing isolation.
How This Cash Boost Changes Local Support
Northern Community Bank, formerly known as Pennine Community Credit Union, is an account holder-owned organisation. It provides simple savings accounts, affordable loans, and financial education to help people build stronger financial futures.
The community centre initiative comes on the back of a project last year to support local primary school children. That scheme gave youngsters a head start on financial education using an educational suitcase and a book written by television star Deborah Meaden. Bosses have confirmed they will continue to support both the community centre and primary school projects throughout the year. People can find out more about the banking services online.
Community Solutions Expresses Gratitude
Chris Emmerson, chief operating officer at Community Solutions in Accrington, said: “We're incredibly grateful to Northern Community Bank for choosing to support Community Solutions North West. As an independent charity, donations like this have a real impact, helping us continue to provide vital support to people across our communities. This funding allows us to deliver wellbeing activities, peer support, volunteering opportunities, community groups and practical help for those who may be experiencing isolation, poor mental health or other life challenges. Unrestricted funding is particularly valuable because it gives us the flexibility to respond to emerging needs and direct resources where they will make the greatest difference. Thanks to this generous support, we can continue creating opportunities for people to improve their wellbeing, build confidence, develop connections and feel part of a supportive community.”
Bank's Commitment to Community
Lee Banks, development officer at Northern Community Bank, said: “Many of our local Community Centres play a vital role in society, helping all areas of the community from young to old. With health and well-being classes, to cubs and brownies, employment support, warm hubs and in some cases accommodation, to name but a few and are often seen as a lifeline to many, assisting with social isolation and in some cases providing food provisions for the need.”
He continued: “Despite the incredible work they do, many community centres receive little or no regular funding and rely heavily on fundraising and donations to continue supporting local people.”
He concluded: “As a not-for-profit, community bank, it is amazing that we can support our community centres and demonstrate our commitment to the people in the areas we serve.”
