Market Harborough Building Society Community Plans
Market Harborough Building Society announced a record-breaking financial performance for 2024. A profit before tax of £3.4 million despite increased competition in lending and savings.
Iain Kirkpatrick, Market Harborough Building Society Chief Executive, thanked colleagues and members for their contributions.
On 24 April 2025, the society held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and shared updates on their community plans for 2025.
Community spirit
Last year, MHBS hosted 60 community events at Newcombe House. As their head office evolves into a community hub, they anticipate hosting over 260 events with over 3,000 attendees, including home education workshops, charity networking events, and fundraising events.
Tim Neal, Head of Footprint, expressed excitement about Newcombe House becoming a central hub for the community. The increase in events reflects their commitment to providing a versatile space for local groups, charities, and businesses.
Thanks to the support of society members, MHBS donated £250,000 to their community fund, supporting various causes across Leicestershire and Northamptonshire.
“Thrive forward”
As part of this donation, they introduced ‘Thrive! Forward,’ a programme aimed at helping young people with mental health, financial capability, resilience, career planning, and employability skills. MHBS aims to guide the next generation in making sound financial decisions by sharing their knowledge and skills.
Kheron Gilpin, the Society’s new Community Ambassador, was introduced to the members. He’s passionate about supporting young people’s success, which aligns with the Society’s commitment to empowering youth. Together, they aim to make a difference. They’re collaborating with Doshi, a leading financial education app, and hope to welcome more partners.
Lesley Vernon, Chief Engagement Officer, said, “We’re proud to launch ‘Thrive! Forward’. This initiative supports young people in our community by helping them build thriving futures.”
A year-long campaign will launch in mid-May, featuring a monthly prize draw where members in NN or LE postcodes can win a £1,000 donation to a local charity in celebration of the 250th anniversary of building societies.
Welland House
Plans to redevelop the Market Harborough branch, Welland House, were shared at the AGM. The project includes refurbishing the branch space and converting the upper floors into flats for a community social purpose, subject to planning permission.
MHBS aims to support the local community, particularly young people struggling to get onto the housing ladder, a significant challenge in Market Harborough. This approach safeguards their key asset for ongoing community benefit. They want to develop a new branch that meets the needs of current and future customers, supporting their ambition of a modern and forward-thinking mutual.
MHBS continues to demonstrate its commitment to the community through robust financial performance, innovative programmes, and ambitious redevelopment plans. They support local initiatives and create spaces for community engagement, building thriving futures for members and the wider community.
Visit their website at mhbs.co.uk for more information.
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