A united force for good
At Newcastle Building Society, we’re passionate about the people and potential of the North East, a passion shared by Newcastle United Foundation.
We’ve worked closely together since 2020, to tackle the region’s biggest social and economic challenges
Our partnership began with £1.1m in funding to support the development of NUCASTLE powered by Newcastle Building Society. Since then, we’ve worked side by side to address deprivation, wellbeing, youth unemployment and barriers to opportunity for families and individuals across the North East.
Strengthening our partnership with NU Communities powered by Newcastle Building Society
In 2026, we’re investing a further £500,000 over three years to expand the Foundation’s work across three community hubs: Howdon, Ashington and Gateshead MetroCentre.
Society colleagues, including local branch teams, will offer additional support promoting employability and opportunity through a range of volunteering activity.
This long-term commitment gives the Foundation the certainty to plan ahead, keep their doors open, and focus on the programmes that help people build skills, confidence and wellbeing — connecting our communities to a better financial future.
Together we're working to:
- Tackle employability challenges across our region and grow local talent.
- Raise aspirations and build employability skills for around 750 young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) each year.
- Support around 400 participants each year to progress into good-quality work.
- Provide career insight sessions for around 1,000 students across the region.
- Reduce barriers to employment and increase confidence and capability for young people.
- Grow a stronger economy by building a future-ready talent pool for local employers.
- Provide social spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds.
- Create opportunities to take part in sport for people of all abilities.
- Offer work experience to help young people build confidence and gain insight into new industries.
NUCASTLE powered by Newcastle Building Society
NUCASTLE is the Foundation’s state-of-the-art community hub in Newcastle. Facilities at NUCASTLE help engage young people in education, skills and careers activities through football, sport, health and wellbeing programmes — just a goal-kick away from St James’ Park.
Building a brighter future for all
Our colleagues play an important role in our partnership with the Foundation. They volunteer their time, energy and skill as part of the NU Futures programme, supporting young people to build confidence and work-ready skills.
Colleagues have supported with CV writing, mentoring, digital skills, employability and money management workshops.
Since 2024, colleague volunteering has positively impacted more than 1,000 young people.
The NU Communities programme is an extension of a shared commitment to our communities and will work closely with our local branches to offer greater support and opportunity for the people using them.
Part of something bigger
When you become a member, you’re part of a building society that reinvests in members and local communities. Together, we support the places we live and work through free community rooms, grants to local charities, volunteering and life-changing partnerships.
Your membership helps strengthen partnerships like this.