A COMMUNITY bank has launched a mobile app to provide a better service and reach more customers.

Northumberland Community Bank, which is a not-for-profit financial cooperative, offers secure savings and loan facilities as an alternative to high cost credit – with any surplus being used to enable and grow services in Northumberland.

Lauren Langton, chief executive of Northumberland Community Bank said: “In today’s digital world, our members rightly expect the same level of service from us as they see in other areas of their lives.

“For instance, they want to view their accounts and balances, make transactions and manage personal information from their devices.

“We do, of course, have some members who prefer a more personal approach, but increasingly, people need to manage their money on the go and our mobile app, in combination with the member area via our website, is a crucial tool for them.

“The mobile app also enables users to apply for loans without having to visit us – a fantastic step forward in encouraging people to consider lower-cost, ethical loans from community lenders instead of turning to short-term, high-cost credit like payday loans.”

Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman, who was one of those to set up the community bank, said: “Northumberland Community Bank continues to go from strength to strength, offering ethical and accessible loans and saving opportunities to local people. I hope many more people take the chance to support this innovative and community-focussed bank – this new mobile app makes it easier than ever.”