Financial inclusion boost for North Devon Homes’ residents thanks to partnership working

Customers of North Devon Homes are to benefit from expanded access to ethical and affordable financial services, thanks to an ongoing partnership between local social landlords and Westcountry Savings and Loans (WS&L), the South West’s largest not-for-profit credit union.

This follows the announcement that WS&L has been awarded a grant of more than £200,000 by Fair4AllFinance, a not-for-profit organisation working to improve financial inclusion across the UK.

“This is fantastic news for our customers,’ said Chief Executive of North Devon Homes, Martyn Gimber. “Too many people are excluded from mainstream financial services or forced to rely on high-cost credit, and that’s simply not right. Through our partnership with Westcountry Savings and Loans, we’re helping to break that cycle, giving residents access to fair, affordable financial products that put their wellbeing first.”

Through the Credit Union Sustainability Partnership (CUSP), WS&L is working with nine social housing providers across the South West of England to offer residents safe savings accounts, ethical loans, and tailored financial wellbeing support. This initiative is already helping residents improve their financial resilience and reduce reliance on high-cost credit. Benefits include:

• Access to affordable credit – Customers can apply for ethical, competitive loans to help with unexpected costs or larger purchases, without turning to payday lenders or high-interest credit.
• Safe and Secure Savings Options - Residents can open a savings account to begin building financial stability, with products tailored to suit low and moderate-income households.
• Financial Wellbeing Support - Through tools and personalised guidance, residents are empowered to manage their money more confidently and plan for the future.

Martyn added, “We know that financial worries are a major concern for many of our customers. Partnering with WS&L through CUSP allows us to offer real, practical support. It’s not just about loans, it’s about giving people the tools to take control of their finances and feel more secure.”

As the cost of living continues to challenge many households, especially those in social housing, partnerships like CUSP are proving to be a vital link in building financial resilience in communities across the South-West.

The work of Fair4All Finance, is helping to make partnerships like CUSP possible. Their mission is to ensure that everyone has access to the right financial services they need to manage their money and build a better future.

For more information on Westcountry Savings and Loans and the services they offer, please visit www.westcountry.org.uk