Access to Banking Fund Opens for York and North Yorkshire Groups

Grants support projects restoring physical banking and cash services across the region

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has launched the Access to Banking Fund to support projects that improve access to physical banking and cash services across York and North Yorkshire.

The fund is intended to address the impact of bank branch closures by backing long-term proposals that reintroduce or strengthen banking provision in towns and communities where services have become less accessible. It aims to improve access to cash withdrawals and deposits, business banking services and current account management, with a particular focus on rural areas and small market towns where residents and businesses may need to travel further for routine transactions.

Individual grants of between £30,000 and £400,000 are available, inclusive of VAT, with approximately £1.2 million available in total.

Applications are accepted from individual organisations and partnerships. Partnerships are encouraged, particularly collaborations between financial service providers and community organisations, with a lead organisation required to submit the application and enter into the grant agreement. Eligible applicants include local partnerships, community groups, charities, Business Improvement Districts, public bodies, building societies, credit unions and post offices. Applicants do not need to be based in the region, but supported activity must take place within York and North Yorkshire.

Support is available for capital, revenue or blended projects that deliver tangible services rather than feasibility studies or business case development. Eligible costs can include building refurbishment, building or room rental, staffing and the purchase or hire of hardware and related services. Proposed activity may include new high street banking provision, services delivered via existing building societies or credit unions, co-location within community or high street buildings, or part-time or pop-up provision.

Projects must commit to an initial operating period of three years and provide a plan for continuation beyond the supported period.