Newcastle United Foundation and Newcastle Building Society team up to secure the future of North East community hub network and boost opportunity for people across the region
Newcastle United Foundation and Newcastle Building Society have announced an extension of their long-standing partnership which includes agreement to fund a new programme of activity and provide sustainable support for three community hubs which play a vital role in creating opportunity for young people in the North East.
Through its extensive community engagement, the Foundation has delivered more than 300 job outcomes from its hub sites, creating life-changing impact in areas of highest need. NU Communities, powered by Newcastle Building Society, is a new five-year programme to help fund the Foundation’s work at community centres in Ashington, Gateshead Metrocentre, and Howdon, unlocking a broader range of employability, wellbeing and personal development programmes.
The agreement also includes ongoing support for the Foundation’s community hub near St James’ Park in Newcastle city centre, which will continue to deliver accessible activities under the name NUCASTLE powered by Newcastle Building Society. As part of the expanded partnership, Society colleagues will deliver new workshops across the community sites, focusing on employability skills and building financial confidence for young people.
Steve Beharall, Newcastle United Foundation CEO, said: “The North East is a region with huge potential, but too many young people still face barriers to opportunity including limited access to the right support.
“Through our community hubs we’re meeting people where they are and helping them build the skills, wellbeing and pathways to bringing them closer to the jobs market.
“Our extended partnership with Newcastle Building Society is vital in supporting young people to take the next steps to becoming work ready and through the NU Communities programme, powered by Newcastle Building Society, we are combining sustainable support and practical expertise to create lasting impact in our communities.”
The Society’s support for the NU Communities programme builds on its long-standing commitment to local communities and its belief in a people-first approach. As well as providing accessible financial services through its branch network, the Society also helps local charities and groups by offering free-to-use community spaces in around half of its locations. These popular spaces provide a warm, convenient place for people to meet, connect, and strengthen local relationships.
Andrew Haigh, chief executive at Newcastle Building Society, said: “Our partnership with Newcastle United Foundation reflects our long-term commitment to supporting communities. Together, we’re creating a better future by delivering meaningful, grassroots impact where it matters most.
“These community centres already play an important role in promoting wellbeing and resilience. Through the NU Communities programme, we’re providing a sustainable source of funding and support to help create better outcomes for young people and overcome the challenges they face.
“As a member-owned organisation with a clear focus on providing face-to-face financial services, we’re building our physical presence in our communities, anchoring and accelerating our impact while reinforcing our commitment to the North East.”
The NU Communities programme will provide free pre-employment support for people aged 16 to 24 who are not currently in employment, education or training, are economically inactive or are actively seeking employment at the Foundation’s hub sites.
Support includes 1:1 mentoring, mock interviews, CV writing help, qualifications, 14-week personal development courses and more delivered by the Foundation’s dedicated staff based full-time at community hubs.
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