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UK Savings Week - all you need to know Issue 8 - September 2026

Jon’s blog - Trust accounts - why they’re not as scary as they sound... Page 24

Life in the fast lane... hear about Mia’s journey Page 36

Page 8

Investment scams - helpful advice to stay protected Page 40

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Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Savings on the Go Our New App

Society Snippets

Branch Spotlight

Underwriters Spotlight

UK Savings Week

Life in the Fast Lane Mia Caruso

Colleague Stories

Investment Scams

HBS Grants

Submit Your Stories

Herts Young Homeless Our Charity of the Year

Housekeeping

Youth Talk

Smart Money People

Jon’s Savings Blog

Learn about some awards we’ve won, our branches, updated sponsorships and more!

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Welcome to Mutual Issue 8

Contact the editorial team: members@harpendenbs.co.uk harpendenbs.co.uk

Published by Harpenden Building Society. Harpenden Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority.

Firm reference number: 157260. Head Office: Harpenden Building Society, Mardall House, 9-11 Vaughan Road, Harpenden AL5 4HU

Harpenden Building Society reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material received, prior to publication. We reserve the right to publish and edit any article or material we receive from our members. We accept no liability for any mistakes and no liability for any third-party website and their content.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Hello and welcome to Issue 8 of Mutual magazine

Well, where has the time gone? It seems only a few weeks ago that we were working on the previous issue and launching our new brand and website. Now, as I sit here in early September and reflect on the past five months, it is remarkable just how much has changed. We have also had a scorching summer, with rain becoming something of a rumour doing the rounds. As a keen gardener, the weather has certainly kept me on my toes over the past few months!

Anyway, back to business. We are delivering significant transformation across many areas, with lots of exciting improvements underway to tell you about. Confidence sits at the heart of our brand, and I am incredibly proud of the way my colleagues constantly strive to improve what we do, all for the benefit of you, our members. We are a mutual that puts people before profit. Our aim is to give our members the kind of confidence they are looking for: confidence they can build a future on. This year has already brought so much positive change, and we will continue to deliver more as it draws to a close. In this issue, we announce plans for the next chapter of our journey, including the launch of a new savings app and online platform for members in the coming months. We have listened to your feedback and know that this will be a valued service. We will share more news soon, but there are certainly exciting times ahead! I have recently reflected on just how many projects we manage at any one time, while continuing to provide a level of service we can be proud of. I am delighted by the dedication, professionalism and care our teams show every day. Since our flagship branch opened in January, we have also given our Radlett and Leighton Buzzard branches a spruce-up, and they look great in our new branding!

As I sit down with a much-needed coffee and look through this issue of Mutual, I am once again captivated by the stories, achievements and community activities involving my colleagues. It makes me smile to see how wholeheartedly we embrace our responsibility to, and passion for, the communities we serve. You will also find updates on the charities chosen to receive our 2026 grants. It is inspiring to see the impact our charity partners have, and we are proud to support the important work they do. This issue includes an update from our Harpenden branch too. Our colleagues work tirelessly to provide the best possible service, so it is always a pleasure to share what has been happening locally and within the team. It is important that we continue to share guidance and practical tips to help you stay safe online. We all rely heavily on technology in our everyday lives, so we are always keen to provide the latest advice and highlight emerging trends. This issue includes advice on investment fraud, which is particularly topical at the moment. We have also included a bumper section ahead of UK Savings Week, which begins on the 21st September. It is well worth a read, with plenty of useful hints and tips.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Jon’s blog returns by popular demand, this time explaining why trust accounts are not as scary as they might sound. You will also gain an insight into his relationship with hair gel during his younger years! Elsewhere, you can hear from our underwriting team and find out how we have been volunteering and supporting our Charity of the Year, Herts Young Homeless. We are committed to sharing information that is useful, relevant and easy to understand. If there is anything you would like us to cover in future issues, from online security and avoiding scams to anything else that matters to you, we would love to hear from you. We are also always delighted to share your own stories and achievements as part of our growing community. Thank you for being such an important part of the Harpenden family. I hope you enjoy reading Issue 8.

Tracie

Tracie Meadows Chief Executive Officer

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

y t e i Soc Snippets The final touches… Over the past six months, we have embarked on an exciting transformation journey, refreshing our brand from the ground up. From introducing a new logo and vibrant colour palette to launching our redesigned website and revitalising our branch network, every element has been carefully crafted to create a more modern, confident, and recognisable Harpenden Building Society. The next step of this journey has been the transformation of our Head Office. Thoughtfully redesigned to reflect our identity and values, the refreshed space promotes collaboration, inspires innovation, and provides a welcoming environment for both colleagues and visitors. More than just a visual makeover, our Head Office now truly reflects the energy, ambition, and professionalism that define Harpenden Building Society today, while supporting our vision for the future.

Local sponsorship As a mutual organisation, supporting the communities we serve is a fundamental part of who we are. Through sponsorship of local events and clubs, we are proud to help bring people together and support community activities.

Award winning excellence We are honoured to have been named ‘Best Local Building Society’ for the 12th successive year at the 2026 What Mortgages Award. We also received a recognition for being ‘Highly Commended’ in both the ‘Best Specialist Lender’ and ‘Best Large Loan Mortgage Lender’ categories, which we are also very proud of.

Recent events we have sponsored include: • Harpenden Lions Highland Gathering

• Leighton-Linslade Carnival Picnic in the Park

• Harpenden Festival on the Field at Sir John Lawes School

• Leighton-Linslade May Day Fayre Carnival

• Harpenden Golf Club Charity Day • Radlett Moovies on the Farm

Our CEO Tracie Meadows said, “To receive this recognition consistently over such a long period is a testament to our unwavering focus on delivering great outcomes for our members and supporting the communities we serve.

Connect with us on LinkedIn

Alongside this achievement, we were delighted to be Highly Commended in both the Best Large Loan Lender and Best Specialist Lender categories. Being recognised in these highly competitive awards is a real milestone for the Society and reflects the strength of our proposition and the progress we continue to make in specialist lending. It is a significant step forward and brings us one step closer to winning these prestigious categories in the future.

We’re excited to launch our Harpenden Building Society LinkedIn page, providing a space for members to connect with us and stay up to date with the latest news, activities and updates from across the Society.

Best Local Building Society Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

• Katherine Warrington School Film Night

We are thrilled to support these fantastic local organisations and events, and we look forward to sponsoring and assisting with many more initiatives during the remainder of the year.

By following our page, you’ll gain access to a wide range of content, including: • Updates on our products and services • Community news, volunteering activities, and local sponsorship initiatives

These awards are only possible because of the dedication, professionalism and commitment of colleagues across the Society. I would like to thank everyone for the part they have played in this success and for the outstanding work they do every day on behalf of our members.”

• Rennie Grove Hospice Charity Golf Day

• Savings blogs, advice, tips, and financial insights • Behind-the-scenes stories from our branches and Head Office

• Member stories, mutual sector news, FAQs, and much more We look forward to engaging with our members in new ways and sharing what makes Harpenden Building Society unique. Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

21st 27th September 2026

Starting to think about your savings Are you feeling overwhelmed about your savings? Not sure where to start? The first step to finding success in your savings is understanding where your finances stand currently. Here are a few ways to take control… • Look at your money - Take a full inventory of your finances and understand what money you have coming in, and how much you’re spending. Try to get an estimate of how much you need to live in a week or month. Knowing this will give you an idea of where you’re able to save.

Save your way today. Thank yourself tomorrow. Whether you're building a rainy-day fund, planning a special trip, or preparing for life's surprises, saving your way today will give future you something to be grateful for. UK Savings Week is all about getting people to think about their savings. Driven by the Building Societies Association, Savings Week is for all types of savers - from those who are already savers, those just starting, or those who are unable to save right now but would like to in the future. In 2026, Savings Week will be taking place from the 21st September to the 27th. In this edition of Mutual, we’ll be giving you a taster of what you can expect from us during UK Savings Week this year.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Steps to positive savings attitudes Whether it’s taking the first small steps or looking to build towards a savings goal, we’re all about getting you thinking about savings and encouraging better saving habits.

Raising awareness Our aim is to raise awareness of the benefits of saving and help everyone save if they can – no matter who you are, your circumstances, or how big your ambitions are.

Financial resilience There are around 14 million people in the UK who have less than £100 of savings to fall back on in an emergency. We want to help you have the security of knowing you can deal with the unexpected. And if you already have a pot of savings, we want to support you in building it up so you can realise your dreams sooner.

• Need vs want - Look at your spending habits and categorise them into ‘needs’ and ‘wants’. Think about what items are must-have essentials for living, and what are little luxuries that you could realistically go without. Once you cut out the habitual spending of unnecessary items, you'll be surprised by how much you're already saving. • Stay calm - We understand that thinking about money can be stressful, but try not to feel anxious – this is you taking control of your finances, so you’re in the driver’s seat. If you’re really worried about money, visit the support section of the UK Savings Week website.

Set your money goals Having targets to aim for means you’re more likely to achieve what you want to do. • Be realistic - If your targets are specific, you’ll be more likely to achieve them. Setting a goal like ‘save £2,000 for my holiday at the end of the year' is more actionable to achieve than a vague ‘save more this year.’ • Stay focused - Put a visual reminder somewhere of what you’re working towards. Whether it’s your dream holiday as your screensaver, or a new car on your fridge, a small reminder to keep you motivated can make all the difference. Track your progress, and feel proud about reaching milestones. • Be consistent - Savings don’t have to be large deposits that happen all at once. If you can make your savings a regular occurrence, it’ll become a habit that will be easier to maintain. • Stay balanced - If you start saving with an all-or-nothing attitude, you’ll struggle to maintain the momentum. Everyone deserves a treat now and again, so don't deny yourself all the time. You need to find your own balance that allows you to make progress in saving without having to sacrifice all your luxury spending.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Below are some of the main savings accounts you can get, and what they’re best suited for: Easy access accounts

Get in control

Also known as instant access accounts, these allow you to take your money out at any time. You usually only need a small amount of money to open one (some start with just £1), and you have access to your savings whenever you need it, so they're a great place to keep your emergency funds.

Identify what temptations you might come across, and plan on how you’ll deal with them. • Temptations - If you know there’s a place where you can be tempted to spend too much money, like a particular shop or restaurant, try to avoid going there too much if possible. • If…then - Commit to having an ‘If…then’ conversation with yourself to think through spending decisions. For example, ‘If I see a top I really want on a shopping app, then I’ll picture three similar items of clothing I already own and weigh up if I really need it.’ • Structure your spending – Look at ways to help you budget; there are lots of apps out there to help, and using pre-paid cards or savings pots to split up your money could help you structure your spending. • Cut some slack - We know things happen or temptation gets the better of us from time to time. Don't beat yourself up if this happens just remind yourself of your goal and get back to saving next time. • Small rewards – While working towards the bigger picture, it’s important to acknowledge the small victories and milestones as well. This could just be a moment to reflect on your achievement, or a sweet treat to say ‘Well done!’.

Money Helper: Free and impartial money and pension guidance

Notice accounts You usually need to give the account provider advance notice before you can take your money out. This can range from around 30 to 120 days. Notice accounts tend to have higher interest rates than easy access accounts. However, withdrawing money before the notice period could lose you interest and you might also need to deposit a higher amount to open a notice savings account. Here are some more top tips for getting started in saving: • It’s always advised to pay off any debts that you have before you start to save. • If your income fluctuates, make sure to take this into account when planning your savings - they should account for scenarios where your income is lower than expected for a month, as well as for emergencies. • Figure out if you prefer setting aside money and then spending, or spending what’s necessary and then putting away your savings. Either way works - just figure out what's best for you. • Keep your savings goals flexible with your life circumstances. If a situation arises and you need to change what you’re saving for, don’t stress – this is what savings are for. • Have a look at selling items that you no longer want, either through online platforms or in person at car boot sales. A little bit of extra money can go a long way in your savings. • When buying something, make sure to shop around and keep your eye out for deals, whether that be on clothes, food or even subscriptions. Make sure to take advantage of vouchers and coupons as well. • Having the right savings account is one of the best ways to make the most out of your savings. Once your accounts are tailored to your needs, that’s when your savings start to grow.

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Where can you get support?

Regular savings You usually have to commit to depositing into a regular savings account every month for an agreed period of time. The upside is you could receive higher interest rates. To receive the higher interest rate, you must deposit regularly or face losing it. You might also be limited to the number of times you can withdraw money from these accounts. Fixed rate accounts These accounts are also called fixed rate bonds, and you need to deposit a single lump sum for a set period of time, which could be anything from one year to five years, or even longer. Usually a guaranteed fixed interest rate is applied so you know exactly how much interest you’ll earn over the term. You’ll be unable to make withdrawals until the fixed term is up. However, if you do decide to withdraw you will face some penalties. Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) These work exactly the same as other savings accounts, except that ISAs allow you to save without tax being deducted. There are many different types of ISAs. Your savings are taxfree, and you can make regular payments or one-off lump sum deposits which don't affect the interest rate you're paid. There’s a limit to the amount you can save in each tax year, which is currently £20,000 per person. Lifetime ISA The Lifetime ISA could really help you save for your first home, as you get a Government bonus of 25% of the amount saved when you use it for house purchase. You can also save for later in life, as you can withdraw your money together with the 25% bonus once you are aged 60. However, if you withdraw your money from a LISA for any other reason you don't get the Government bonus, and you will have to pay a penalty. There is a £4,000 a year limit to how much you can save in a Lifetime ISA, and you must be aged under 40 to open an account.

National Debt Line: Giving you free independent debt advice Step Change: Expert debt advice and fee-free debt management Citizens Advice: Assisting people with legal, debt, consumer, housing and more Take Five: Impartial advice that helps prevent email, phone-based and online fraud Helping people to save is core to building societies and credit unions, that is why the Building Societies Association (BSA) is proud to be the driving force behind UK Savings Week. But UK Savings Week is broader still, as developing the financial resilience and confidence of people across the UK benefits everybody. The Building Societies Association, the trade body of UK building societies and seven large credit unions, launched UK Savings Week in 2022. Content courtesy of the BSA and uksavingsweek.co.uk

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

St Albans and Harpenden Careers Fair On a glorious Friday in early July, four of our colleagues volunteered at the St Albans and Harpenden Careers Fair, held at Rothamsted Research Conference Centre.

Be My Eyes Recently, our colleague Kerry Cunningham introduced us to Be My Eyes, an app she has been volunteering with for the past few years. Inspired by Kerry’s experience and the positive impact the platform has on people with sight loss, a number of our colleagues have since signed up to become volunteers themselves. Be My Eyes connects people who are blind or have low vision with volunteers and companies around the world through live video and AIpowered assistance. Users can receive free support with everyday tasks, including live visual descriptions, product support, and guidance when they need it most. How the app works: • User requests help: the blind or low-vision user opens the Be My Eyes app and selects “call first available volunteer”. • Volunteer alert: the app sends a notification to several volunteers in the user’s language and time zone. • Volunteer connects: the first volunteer to answer the call is connected to the user. • Live video feed: the user’s phone camera transmits a live video feed to the volunteer’s phone (the video feed is one way) allowing the volunteer to ‘be their eyes’ and support the user with everyday tasks.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

• Most calls are answered within 30 seconds and last a couple of minutes. • Audio communication: the user and volunteer can talk through the app, allowing the user to describe the situation and the volunteer to help. • Examples of assistance you can provide: checking expiry dates on food labels, identifying clothing colours, reading text aloud, helping find a misplaced item, reading an error message displayed, describing a photo.

This annual event brings together students from local secondary schools, specialist education settings and colleges, creating valuable opportunities for young people to explore the wide range of pathways available after education. With a diverse mix of organisations in attendance, the fair helps connect students with employers, apprenticeship providers and training organisations from across the region.

Throughout the day, students streamed into the venue, eager to speak directly with industry professionals, gain insights into different sectors, and learn more about the skills, qualifications and experiences that can help them succeed in the workplace. Our colleagues were delighted to represent the Society, sharing their career journeys and offering advice as students considered their next steps. There were plenty of engaging conversations with enthusiastic and curious attendees, many of whom were keen to learn more about who we are and what we do. Connecting with our local community and helping young people build confidence in their future aspirations is something we’re incredibly proud to support at Harpenden Building Society. Events like these provide a fantastic opportunity to make a positive and lasting impact, and we look forward to attending again next year.

The app is available on both Android and iOS devices and is accessible in over 150 countries and in over 180 languages. There are over 1 million blind or low vision users and over 10 million volunteers. When discussing the app, Kerry says: “I’ve had the app downloaded on my phone for a few years and I get approximately one call a month. After answering a call, I feel very positive and happy that I am able to assist someone. Such a simple thing that can make a huge difference to a blind/low-vision person”.

Scan the QR code to find out more about the app

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

disappeared, leaving only a sense of pride and accomplishment. The short-term pain was more than worth it. Looking back, the event reaffirmed how rewarding it can be to step outside your comfort zone. The combination of a personal cause, a physical challenge and the support of friends made the experience incredibly memorable.

Cancer Research UK Big Hike Challenge In July, I took on the Cancer Research UK Big Hike challenge. This was my first time attempting something like this, but as someone with a competitive streak, who enjoys walking, running, and a challenge, taking part in the Big Hike felt like the ideal event whilst raising money for an important cause. Cancer Research UK’s Big Hike offers three distances: 10K, a half marathon (13.1 miles) and the full marathon (26.2 miles). As someone who doesn’t do things by half, there was only one distance that I was going to choose and that was taking on the full marathon, so unfortunately for my friends they had little choice but to do the same. When choosing a location, there are many across the UK; The Lake District, Peak District and the Jurassic coast are just a few. We settled on the Cotswolds, optimistically believing it would provide a relatively flat route.

14 Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Admittedly at the time it was January so, the recent heatwave was not accounted for, and we quickly discovered how wrong we were about the lack of hills. The day began early, with us setting off at 6:45am in what felt like comfortable conditions. By the middle of the day, it had climbed to 32°C and remained there for the rest of the walk. So, while the Cotswolds scenery was beautiful, the hills we had to complete, with the heat made the challenge significantly tougher than we had anticipated. Thankfully, the event was well organised. Along the route there were rest stops offering water, electrolytes, fruit and snacks. Lunch was provided, as well as an endless supply of Jelly Babies which became a welcome source of energy throughout the day.

Given the temperatures, organisers had also placed large buckets of ice-cold water and sponges at various checkpoints, giving walkers a much-needed opportunity to cool down before pressing on. Despite the physical challenge, the route showcased some of the scenery the Cotswolds has to offer. We passed through picturesque villages, visited the iconic Broadway Tower and walked sections of the famous Cotswold Trail. I found much of the walk surprisingly manageable. However, the route had one final challenge in store. Around mile 22, we were faced with one of the steepest hills on the entire route. Climbing it was undoubtedly the toughest part of the day and tested everyone’s determination to finish. I completed the walk alongside four of my friends from school. While we were all supporting Cancer Research UK, each of us had our own personal reasons for taking part. Some were walking in memory of grandparents, while others were supporting friends who had been affected by cancer. For me, this challenge was about remembering my Mum, who passed away 18 years ago when I was 13 years old, so walking in memory of her made every step worthwhile.

For anyone considering taking part in a fundraising challenge, I’d definitely recommend it. Whether you walk 10K, complete a half marathon, or take on the full distance, it’s a great personal achievement and a rewarding way to support a cause that helps support vital research that could change lives in the future. In fact, I am already looking at doing another challenge. The Big Hike Jurassic Coast has caught my attention, although convincing my friends to sign up again may take some persuasion. Perhaps a pub trip with the compromise of a half marathon might be enough for them next time!

James

James Mason Assistant Product Manager, Mortgages & Savings

Beyond completing the marathon itself, fundraising was a huge part of the challenge. Each member of our group set a target of raising £300. I was delighted to exceed my goal, and collectively our team raised an impressive £1,366 for Cancer Research UK. Of course, we all finished with a few blisters, sore feet and tired legs, but after a couple of days of recovery the discomfort had

James (left) and friends.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 15

N E D N E P HAR

R E P P HO 0 0 0 , 3 £ : t n a r HBS G

The motion also recognised the work of the five trustees, 22 volunteer drivers and mechanic who make it possible to coordinate hundreds of weekly journeys. One of the Hopper’s regular passengers, Amanda, spoke from the heart about the service. She said, “I was extremely happy when it [the Hopper] ran daily as at the time I worked as a Carer for Nannies4Grannies and I relied on the Hopper to get me around Harpenden. From the start, there was a wonderful community feel about it. I even volunteered to look after a fellow passenger’s cat whilst she went on holiday! I became ill with heart and lung failure and thought all was over but realised I could still use the Hopper with the help of the fantastic drivers - the bus gave me a new lease of life; it has opened up my world. I have made wonderful friends with fellow passengers and drivers alike, especially a close friendship with another passenger - the two of us get out on the bus as much as possible, in fact we plan our outings and lives around the Hopper timetable, especially our monthly lunches at The Plough & Harrow in Southdown. In fact, it is an ‘in joke’ on the bus with other passengers who try to guess where we are off to next!

Harpenden Hopper celebrates ten years of community service The Harpenden Hopper has marked a very special milestone: ten years of helping local people get out, stay connected and remain part of everyday life in the town. What began with two ageing minibuses and a small band of determined supporters has grown into a muchloved community service, now making more than 250 passenger journeys each week and firmly established in the fabric of Harpenden. At the heart of that success is the team of volunteer drivers, whose commitment, patience and good humour keep the Hopper moving day after day. They do far more than drive a minibus: they welcome passengers by name, help people on and off safely, keep an eye out for regular travellers, and make each journey feel friendly and reassuring. For many passengers, the Hopper is not simply a way to reach the shops, appointments or social activities; it is a regular point of contact, conversation and companionship. 16 Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

That contribution was warmly recognised at the Hopper’s 10th anniversary celebration on Friday 3rd July at Park Hall in Leyton Road, Harpenden. The event brought together volunteer drivers, trustees, regular passengers, sponsors and invited dignitaries, including Dr John Howie, Deputy Lieutenant representing the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Town Mayor Kirsti Wenn, Victoria Collins MP, and other Deputy Lieutenants Annie Brewster and David Williams. Speakers paid tribute to the service’s achievements, its volunteers and the late Rosemary Farmer, who played an important part in its early story.

I personally want to say thank you to everyone on the Hopper, for everything you do, for the wonderful service you provide and for all your kindness shown, not only to me but to all that board the bus. Thank you for everything, thank you for being my lifeline”.

The continued growth in passenger journeys shows just how important the service has become. As more residents use the Hopper, the passenger community has grown too, with familiar faces, new friendships and a shared appreciation of the volunteers who make each trip possible. The volunteer team is also deeply grateful for the financial support provided by Harpenden Building Society, whose backing helps sustain this valued local service and its day-to-day contribution to community life. The celebrations continued throughout the summer with the annual Hopper passengers’ tea party which took place on Wednesday 19th August, in the garden of St Nicholas’ church hall at Cornelia’s coffee shop. All Hopper passengers were invited, and the much-loved selection of home-made cakes went down a treat. As always it was another happy opportunity for passengers, drivers and friends of the service to come together, ideally arriving, of course, by Hopper. “We are proud to have kept the Hopper running for ten years, but most of all we are grateful to our passengers, supporters and sponsors for making it such a warm and valued part of community life. Every journey reminds us why this service matters”.

Hopper volunteer team The Harpenden Hopper volunteer team

Scan to find out more about Harpenden Hopper

Victoria Collins MP also read the wording of an Early Day Motion congratulating the Harpenden Hopper on a decade of service, highlighting its role in combating loneliness, improving accessibility and reducing congestion. Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Herts Young Homeless Our 2026 Charity of the Year Herts Young Homeless (HYH) has a vision that every young person has a safe home from which they can grow and thrive. The mission is to prevent youth homelessness in Hertfordshire through education, advice and support for young people and their families. Young service users are aged 10–25 years old; they may be experiencing problems at home with their families, are homeless and need somewhere to stay or are living independently at a young age with little or no family support. HYH truly believe in a youth informed approach and as such have recruited 11 young people aged 16-24 to form a Youth Advisory Board (YAB). Some of these young people have lived through the experience of homelessness themselves. The Board members meet on a regular basis to discuss and inform HYH on areas such as how to develop and deliver their services, and how they reach & communicate with young people. One of the key areas the Board got involved in was HYH’s new 4-year strategy. The YAB members suggested that young people wouldn’t read a lengthy strategy document, so instead decided to produce, direct and deliver a short video. Alongside the YAB, HYH want to create opportunities for young people to have a safe, inclusive space for their voices and opinions to be heard with the right audience to affect change.

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HYH recently conducted a youth survey which included current and past service users as well as other young people in Hertfordshire. Over 240 young people completed the survey and gave us some helpful information. When asked - what stops a young person from asking for help from HYH:

34% said shame or embarrassment

25% said fear 22% said they didn’t know HYH existed

8% said family/

11% said they

had no access to digital services

home barriers

They suggested that HYH communicate with young people via TikTok, in schools, at events, in online ads and via other social media platforms. HYH is now working on ways to reduce the stigma of homelessness so that young people are not embarrassed to seek help.

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Herts Young Homeless – Recent Volunteering

HYH mission Prevent youth homelessness in Hertfordshire through education, advice and support for young people and their families.

One of the most rewarding aspects of working for a building society is the opportunity to volunteer alongside colleagues. At Harpenden Building Society, every colleague is given two days each year to support causes and projects within the local community.

Other members of the team planted fruit and vegetables in the raised beds, whilst others carried out re-decoration of the ground floor rooms after which these looked refreshed and bright. Our property and maintenance partners, Jardak Group and Brewers Decorator Centres, kindly donated the paint.

In June 2026, the Harpenden Executive Team spent a day volunteering with our charity of the year, Herts Young Homeless, gardening, painting and transforming their Future Roots house.

We also had the opportunity to spend time with Maureen and Grace from Herts Young Homeless to understand more about the fantastic work they do. They kept us hydrated throughout the day.

Future Roots is a 5-bedroom home in Welwyn Garden City, where Herts Young Homeless do fantastic work supporting young people from homelessness towards confident, independent living.

Despite the challenges of the weather, the team never complained and the enthusiasm to get the work done remained throughout the day.

We were hoping for a summer’s day, however in true British summertime, we had a day with torrential rain, hail and sunshine!

One day is never enough, more Harpenden colleagues are going to visit the Future Roots house in the coming weeks to complete the decorating, and we hope to go back later in the year to cut back the shrubs in the garden.

Each member of the team was assigned to various duties; some of us picked up the task of working outside to tidy up and weed the patio and paved areas and carry out some much-needed pruning.

The Executive Team

HYH vision Every young person has a safe home from which they can grow and thrive. Scan to visit HYH website

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This allowed one of the other members to utilise his pressure washer to give the paving a deep clean, after which the area looked amazing.

Scan to view real stories of young people HYH have supported in Hertfordshire

Scan to view HYH 2025 Annual review

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

That’s why we’ve launched 100 More. Before we celebrate our 30th anniversary next year, we’re inviting 100 local people to become regular monthly supporters. It isn’t about making a huge donation. It’s about lots of people doing something small, together.

Every young person deserves someone to talk to. Growing up has never been easy. But for many young people today, it can feel overwhelming. Alongside the usual pressures of school, friendships and growing up, they’re also navigating social media, worries about the future and a world that can often feel very uncertain.

One young person recently told us: “Waiting lists to see therapists can be so long. It just made everything feel even more impossible. Then I heard about Youth Talk. With their help and guidance, I was able to work through my problems and start to see a way forward again”.

Stories like this remind us why our work matters so much. They also remind us why we need the support of our local community.

Earlier this year, Youth Talk asked more than 1,200 local young people about their lives through our Growing Up Survey. More than half told us that mental health is one of the biggest challenges facing young people today, while one in six said that life feels difficult right now.

This year is a particularly exciting one for Youth Talk. Alongside continuing to support young people from our counselling centre in London Road, St Albans, we’re planning to introduce a new one-to-one counselling service in Harpenden, helping even more local young people access support closer to home.

Perhaps what surprised us most wasn’t what young people were struggling with, but what they said would help.

As demand continues to grow, so does the importance of building a strong and sustainable future for the charity.

To help spread the word, our Head of Fundraising and Partnerships, Jim Lewis, has pledged to wear a specially designed 100 More T-shirt every single day until all 100 supporter spaces have been filled. The T-shirt features 100 speech bubbles, with each one being filled as another person signs up to support local young people. We’re delighted that the first speech bubbles have already been claimed by the Mayor of Harpenden, Councillor Kirsti Wrenn, and the Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Matt Fisher, together with their families, who were among the very first to join the campaign. Their support sends a powerful message that our whole community can play a part in ensuring young people never have to face life’s challenges alone.

One person can’t solve the growing mental health challenges facing young people. But together, our community can. Regular monthly donations give us something incredibly valuable. They allow us to plan ahead with confidence, invest in our counselling service and continue saying “yes” when the next young person reaches out for help. As we look ahead to the next 30 years, we’re simply asking 100 more people to stand alongside local young people. Together, we can make sure every young person knows there is someone ready to listen. David Barker, Chief Executive - Youth Talk

Despite growing up in an increasingly digital world, young people overwhelmingly told us they would choose face-to-face counselling with a real person over apps or online support. Someone who would simply listen. For almost 30 years, that’s exactly what Youth Talk has been doing. Every week, more than 120 local young people come through our doors looking for someone they can trust. Someone who won’t judge them. Someone who will help them make sense of what they’re going through.

Join the 100 A small monthly gift can make a life-changing difference to local young people. Become one of 100 local people helping ensure Youth Talk is there when it’s needed most. Scan the QR code to find out more.

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Jon’s Savings

Fast forward a couple of decades, and after spending much of my career working around specialist savings products, I’ve learned something important - trusts can be complicated...but the basic idea behind them often isn’t.

g o l B

At their heart, a trust is simply an arrangement where one person (or group of people) looks after money or assets, for the benefit of someone else. That’s it.

Trust Accounts: Why they’re not as scary as they sound. Many years ago, long before I found myself working on product development and savings propositions, I was a spotty-faced, teenage cashier at a high-street bank in an ill-fitting uniform that looked like it had been borrowed from someone at least two sizes larger than me. At the time, I also had a relationship with hair gel that can probably only be described as excessive. In hindsight, if someone had struck a match near me, there was a fair chance the local fire brigade would have been called.

Of course, different trusts have different purposes, and the legal framework sitting behind them can become more detailed. But when you strip away the terminology, the principle is often surprisingly straightforward.

Back then, I thought I knew quite a lot about, well, everything!

For example, grandparents may wish to put money aside for grandchildren. Parents may want funds managed for younger family members until they reach a certain age. Others may have more specific family or estateplanning arrangements where money needs to be held and managed in a particular way.

Then someone walked up to my counter and asked about a trust account.

That’s where trust accounts can come into the picture.

I can still remember the feeling. The colour drained from my face. My palms became sweaty. I probably looked like I was about to be asked to diffuse a bomb using only a biro and a calculator. Trusts, you see, had a reputation. They sounded complicated. They involved legal documents. People spoke about trustees, beneficiaries and settlements. The language alone was enough to convince many people that they required a law degree and several years of specialist training before being discussed in public.

The challenge is that many people hear the word “trust” and immediately assume they are entering a world of complexity, paperwork and legal jargon. We understand that. In fact, one of the things I enjoy most about working at Harpenden Building Society is helping to make complicated things feel simpler. We don’t pretend trusts are simple in every situation. Sometimes specialist legal or professional advice will be appropriate. But when it comes to opening and managing a trust savings account, our role is to guide customers through the process, explain what information is required, and help remove some of the mystery. Because if there is one thing I’ve learned since my cashier days, it’s that most people don’t want financial jargon. They want someone to explain things in plain English. They want to know what documents are needed, how the account works, and who can operate it. Most importantly, they want confidence that they are doing the right thing. So, if you’ve ever heard the phrase “trust account” and felt your own face starting to drain of colour, take comfort from this: you’re certainly not the first. I was once that nervous cashier myself. Thankfully, these days we have a fantastic team who help customers navigate the process every day, proving that while trusts can sometimes be complex, understanding them doesn’t have to be.

Jon Sweeting Jon Sweeting Commercial Manager

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Savings on the

! n o o s g Comin

You spoke. We listened. We’re excited to announce we’ll be introducing a new savings app and online platform in the coming months... we will keep you updated as we approach launch! • Open our savings accounts in minutes on any device • Also apply jointly for a savings account • Easy and quick to move your money • View all your Harpenden accounts, balances, rates and transactions • Simple to find all relevant documentation for your Harpenden accounts • Manage your personal details and keep them up to date • Easy to view loan amount(s) for any mortgage members • Simple to message the society quickly and securely • Manage your communication preferences with us • Secure platform using biometrics/PIN authentication • Plus more functionality and features will continue to be developed

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Here’s a bit more detail… • Transaction history - opening an account reveals its transaction history, with credits and debits clearly distinguished so it is easy to see your money coming in versus going out. • Filter, sort and download - you can filter and sort your transactions to find a particular payment quickly and download a copy of your transaction history for your own records or to share with a third party. • Product information and documents - details are shown throughout on the dashboard, on the account view and during an application – and you can open any relevant product or account documents whenever you need. • Rename accounts and choose colours - a bit of fun - you can give each account a specific name and pick a particular colour for it, making it far easier to tell your accounts apart at a glance. We do like a bit of green… • Staying secure & getting help - it’s easy to contact us and receive replies…no Bots or AI...just speaking with humans…we provide a protected channel through secure twoway messaging for added safety. Any files or documents we share with you can be downloaded too. • Two-factor verification for transfers sensitive actions such as transfers are protected by a verification step. If a customer has no phone number on file, verification can be sent by email instead, and you are prompted to add a phone number for the future. • Email and SMS - we’ll keep you up to date with notifications by email and text for any relevant activity on your accounts, so you don’t have to log in to know something has happened.

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Spotlight on Harpenden Branch We have been extremely busy in our new flagship branch since opening and have had some wonderful comments from existing and new members about how welcoming the new branch is. With our new prime location on the high street, and the seating around the branch, it’s a lovely centre of community for our members in Harpenden, and we’re glad they like it as much as we do. If you haven’t had the chance to take a look at our brand-new branch on the High Street, please pop in to look around and say hello! We held an Easter Raffle for HYH (Herts Young Homeless) our Charity of the Year, which raised £30.00. The winner won a lovely gardening hamper with some chocolate added in. We currently have a collection tin on the counter for HYH which collects any leftover currency, old notes and coins or change customers may wish to donate. It’s great reminder to us and our members of our commitment to supporting our Charity of the Year, even if it’s a little bit at a time – it all adds up.

Here are our current opening times: Monday............... 10am - 3:30pm Tuesday.............. 10am - 3:30pm Wednesday....... 10am - 3:30pm Thursday............ 10am - 3:30pm Friday.................. 10am - 3:30pm Saturday............... 9am - Midday Sunday.............................. Closed

Here’s how to get in touch: 52 High Street, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2SP Telephone: 01582 344204 Email: enquiries@harpendenbs.co.uk

We are currently liaising with some local schools in Harpenden to offer some information sessions to their students on savings. A few of our associates have volunteered at the local Keech Hospice charity shop, looking through the donations and getting them ready to sell. We hope everyone’s had a good summer, and we hope to see you at the Harpenden branch soon!

Isabel

Isabel Hare Harpenden Branch Manager

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Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

Underwriters Spotlight Get to know some of our underwriters and learn a little bit more about what they do.

Natasa CavkaSheppard Head of Mortgage New Business How did you end up working in underwriting? I started my career 26 years ago in financial services and quickly developed an interest in lending and risk assessment. Underwriting appealed to me because it combines analytical thinking with the opportunity to help people achieve their property goals. Over time, I gained experience in mortgage lending and progressed into an underwriting role. What is it about your role that you find most interesting? No two applications are the same. I enjoy assessing individual circumstances and looking beyond the standard criteria to find solutions for borrowers where appropriate. It’s rewarding to balance risk while helping customers secure the funding they need.

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What is the biggest challenge that you face while underwriting? The biggest challenge is ensuring that every decision is fair, consistent, and responsible while considering a wide range of circumstances. It is important to carefully assess risk while also understanding the customer’s individual situation. What do you enjoy the most about working at Harpenden Building Society? I enjoy the personal approach we take to lending. We can consider cases on their individual merits and work closely with brokers and customers. The supportive culture and great environment also make it a great place to work. What advice would you give to someone who’s looking to go into your line of work? Develop a strong understanding of mortgages and financial services, be curious, and never stop learning. Building analytical and communication skills is important, and gaining experience in related areas such as customer service, mortgage administration, or processing can provide a great foundation. What are your professional and personal goals that you’re looking towards for 2027? Professionally, I aim to further enhance my knowledge and skills, continue my professional development, and play an active role in supporting the Society’s continued success and future growth. Who inspires you the most? I am inspired by individuals who lead by example and continually strive to make a positive difference.

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What is the biggest challenge that you face while underwriting? The ever-changing market conditions & uncertainty is the biggest challenge at the moment.

Paul Coleman Senior Underwriter

How did you end up working in underwriting? My first job in Finance after leaving school was with the American bank, Citi, in London. I worked in various mortgage roles until after about 3 years I started out as a Mortgage Underwriter. What is it about your role that you find most interesting? The sheer variety of clients that we come across and their differing financial backgrounds. What is the biggest challenge that you face while underwriting? Having to decline or push back on applications. It’s important that you get the communication with the broker right in those situations.

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Can you explain the underwriting process, from the application to a final decision? Initial underwrite is the most important piece as you must ask the right questions on day 1. Often, there is no supporting information, so you have to base your affordability calculation on what’s declared in the application form. Thereafter, you are assessing the various pieces of information as they are received and comparing them to what the application form said. Once you have received all the information, you can make your final decision using the tools that we have (e.g. affordability or rental calculators) and the skills & experience you have as an Underwriter to make the right decision for the client and the Building Society. What advice would you give to someone who’s looking to go into your line of work? Learn the ropes in other roles before you get into Underwriting. It will give you a wider view of things. What are your professional and personal goals that you’re looking towards for 2027? Looking forward to helping the Building Society grow and consolidating my role here after joining in April this year. Who inspires you the most? Teachers.

What skills would you say are best suited to being an underwriter? Attention to detail, analytic mindset, good communication & efficiency.

Connor Rowe

Senior Underwriter How did you end up working in underwriting? I joined Harpenden Building Society in the mortgage processing team as my first role in financial services. I learnt a lot in my time in the processing role and after 18 months I progressed into the underwriting role. What is it about your role that you find most interesting? The variety of lending Harpenden offers means every case is different, this allows me to learn new things, and it keeps it refreshing, no two cases are ever the same.

What is something the average person may not know about underwriting? The amount of time and level of detail that goes into a mortgage application before an offer can be issued. The level of information we have to assess, verify and provide our rationale for decisions may be more than people would expect. What advice would you give to someone who’s looking to go into your line of work? Mortgage underwriting requires both analytical skills and sound judgment, so gaining experience in lending, banking, or financial services can be very beneficial. What are your professional and personal goals that you’re looking towards for 2027? To continue to expand my knowledge, from an underwriting aspect to learn about new areas that the Society has entered or may consider entering in the future. Who inspires you the most? My inspiration comes from people who stay determined, keep learning, and work hard to achieve their goals despite challenges.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 35

While karting, I also tested cars at a number of legendary tracks including Silverstone, Paul Ricard, Donington and Snetterton. A highlight for me was attending the Winfield F4 School where I received excellent training in driving an FIA Formula 4 car, making my single-seater debut at the famous Formula 1 circuit - Paul Ricard in France.

Life in the fast lane…

At the end of 2025, I was the youngest competitor to make it through to the world finals of an all-female racing competition. This enabled me to compete against a handful of women from all around the world in an ice-driving competition in Sweden, early 2026. Throughout 2026, I have transitioned fully into racing cars as it is my goal to make a career as a driver. A huge target of mine is to become a winner of the world’s oldest active endurance sports car race, the 24 hours of Le Mans.

From a young age I have been fascinated by cars and have grown up as a Ferrari enthusiast. Watching the F1 from a tiny age was a normal part of my routine each race weekend. Towards the end of 2023, aged 13, I went to Teamsport Dunstable to try karting for fun. That one session resulted in me returning again and again – I was hooked! From then on, I joined their Race Academy and caught the racing bug. Still aged 13, I started testing cars, gained my racing licence and got my own kart for my 14th Birthday. From the summer of 2024 to the end of 2025, I spent nearly every weekend in my kart – racing 3 times each month across the country as well as completing testing in Italy, Belgium and Florida.

SNETTERTON

PAUL RICARD

DONINGTON PARK 36 Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

SILVERSTONE Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 37

What’s next? Well, the future looks very exciting. Over the last few months, as well as completing my GCSEs, I have been testing in the incredible Radical SR3 XXR car. I was thrilled to test with current competitors at Silverstone recently and, on only my third drive in the car, my lap times put me in a competitive stance despite being the youngest to take part. Soon, I will be joining the Radical UK Cup grid for a full race season! Alongside this, I will be continuing to test in single-seaters to prepare me for the next stage. My upcoming plans involve preparing for the exclusive F1 Academy Rookie Test in 2027 with the hopes to secure a spot on the 2028 grid. This will enable me to race alongside Formula 1 and travel around the world doing what I love. I have already been invited to F1 Academy development workshops, and I have intensive day-to-day support from coaches who work with me and the F1 Academy to ensure I am ready to achieve this goal.

Each week I train at iZone Driver Performance at Silverstone, where I work on my skills using their simulators and also receive motorsport-specific fitness training and mindfulness training. I also have daily calls with the team to ensure I am working as hard as I can to climb quickly up the motorsport ranks.

It has been a busy few years, but I would always choose my racing life and am grateful to Harpenden Building Society for listening to my story and supporting my growing career. If my story has interested you and you would like to support me, you can follow my journey on Instagram: @miacarusoracing.

I am thrilled that I also have been selected for a 2-year training course for young elite racing drivers. There were only 20 places available in the country, and I am over the moon to receive one of them! This course will allow me to gain qualifications whilst developing my driving skills on track as well as being prepared physically and mentally to compete at the top level, as well as giving me exposure to more opportunities in the motorsport world.

I am also always open to welcoming partners who would like to support me further and work with me so please do get in touch if you would like to get involved: miapcaruso@gmail.com. I am delighted to partner with Harpenden Building Society as they support me on my exciting journey as a young racing driver.

Mia Mia Caruso, Racing Driver

Harpenden Building Society are proud to be supporting Mia on her journey, we look forward to hearing about Mia’s future achievements.

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a i M o s u r a C

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 39

Unsolicited contact

Investment Scams

This contact may be in the form of cold calls, emails or follow-up calls after a promotio nal brochure is posted to you. Scam callers will attempt to remain on the phone with you for a long tim e, and may call you back many tim es if you’ve shown interest. They could also attempt to contact yo u via social media or by in-perso n visits.

Investment scams will entice people with offers that seem too good to be true, like much better interest rates than anywhere else. They will also downplay risks to your investments, and may use complex language and jargon to confuse you. Celebrity endorsements for their products can be easily faked with AI.

What to do

If you’ve received a ca ll from someone claiming to be from a firm but you’re unsu re if they’re being truthful , you can hang up and go di rectly to the website that th ey claim to be from. If it’ s a place you already bank with , you can also call the num ber on the back of your card for a direct line.

What is an investment scam? Investment scams are when a criminal persuades you to invest your money into an opportunity that is either fake or misleading compared to what has been promised. These scams can appear professional and are typically accompanied by convincing websites, apps or emails. As these scams become more sophisticated, it is more important than ever to remain vigilant about where you’re putting your money. With Savings Week around the corner, be wary of potential investment scammers who may attempt to take advantage of your savings and steal them. We’ve listed some of the tell-tale signs of an investment scam, and what to do if you find them happening to you.

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Too good to be true

If an offer seems too good to be true, unfortunately it usually is. You can use the FCA Firm Checker to check if the firm you’re talking to is legitimate. Do your own research before committing to something or sending anyone money.

Exclusive offers

£612

million

lost to investment fraud in the first half of 2025*

Pressuring Fraudsters will often apply pressure to you to transfer over money quickly before you have the time to check their legitimacy. For example, saying there’s a limited time offer or a bonus for setting up an account before a specific date.

What to do If you’re feeling pressured, there’s no harm in stopping the conversation and coming back to it later when you’re more informed. A genuine firm or bank won’t pressure you to decide on the spot.

*Statistics from MoneyHelper

ONLY FOR

YOU

Being asked to keep an offer a secret is one of the biggest red flags for investment fraud. Scammers may say that they’re only making the offer available to you or even ask you not to tell anyone else about the opportunity. While this may seem enticing to have an exclusive offer, it is a tactic used to isolate a victim.

What to do If you’re unsure about a financial decision or financial advice from one of these calls, it’s always good to talk to a trusted family member or friend for a second opinion. You can also get independent financial advice from an FCA-regulated firm if you’re thinking about an investment opportunity that seems out of the ordinary.

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Different types of investment scams Here are a few of the different types of investment scams that fraudsters may be using.

Ponzi Schemes

Unregulated investment schemes Some scams will involve investments that are not FCA regulated, sometimes called collective investment schemes. Even if these firms/ schemes are legitimate, be careful if you’re investing in products that the FCA don’t regulate, like diamonds, gold or land overseas. If something goes wrong with these investments, you aren’t protected, and you could lose all your money.

Sometimes called a pyramid scheme, a Ponzi scheme is where the money of new investors is used to pay off previous investors rather than actually being invested. Once the money being owed is larger than the money coming in, the scheme collapses, leaving many of the investors out of money.

Binary option scams Binary options are a form of fixed-odds betting. Typically, a trade involves predicting whether an event will happen or not. If the investor is correct, they ‘win’ and should see a return on their investment. If they’re wrong, they lose their full investment. From 2019, firms were banned from selling binary options in the UK. If you’re offered binary options, it’s probably a scam.

Crypto scams Cryptocurrency scams will often take advantage of people’s lack of knowledge or experience in digital currency to scam them. These scams will often be promoted through social media with fake celebrity endorsements claiming it’s a method to ‘get rich quick’. Be wary, as specific forms of currency and crypto assets are not protected by the FCA or FSCS.

Clone Firm scams These scams are where fraudsters copy regulated companies and steal money from victims who believe they are legitimate. These clone firms will imitate websites and branding, and the scammers can sound authoritative in their knowledge.

Pension scams This is where scammers will try to convince pensioners to move their funds into fraudulent investment schemes. It is illegal to cold-call about pensions in the UK, so treat any unexpected pension offers as a scam.

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Recovery room scams This fraud scheme occurs after someone has already lost money in a previous scam. Fraudsters will offer to help get the victim’s money back for an upfront fee. Usually, no explanation about how money will be recovered is given. These scammers will impersonate the government, the police, the FCA or any other regulatory firm.

Over

£146 million

was lost in cryptocurrency fraud in 2021**

If you think you’ve been a target of investment fraud, here’s what to do: 1. Do not send any more money to the fraudster. 2. Immediately contact your bank – do not use any contact details from the scammer. Use a trusted number like the one on the back of your card. 3. If you’ve lost money to a scam, contact Fraud Report.

**Statistic from Report Fraud: UK’s Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 43

A little bit of housekeeping… In addition to any regulatory communication we may send you regarding your savings account(s) or mortgage - we deliver two categories of email communication to members…

Our rebrand What, Why and Wow!

Membership messaging

Page 7

Issue 7 - April 2026

• Mutual e-magazine and e-newsletters • Membership email campaigns

Our charity of the year 2026 Herts Young Homeless Page 24

Savings blog - ISA changes in 2027 Page 40

Protect yourself from fraud...shoulder surfing Page 48

• Improvements or upgrades to our service to members • Customer surveys • Opportunity to review on Smart Money People • Changes to existing accounts or how they operate

Issue 3

Online Single Access

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR STORIES… We welcome our members to send us any stories to include them in future editions… send our editors any of the below: • Any activity of your fundraising achievements.

Send us your content, details and any photos or images… we’d love to hear from you.

• Any volunteering or community support you have provided.

Contact the team: members@harpendenbs.co.uk

• Do you have any advice you want to provide and inform to other members?

Or via post: Editorial Team, Mutual Magazine, Harpenden Building Society, Mardall House, 9-11 Vaughan Road, Harpenden AL5 4HU

• Or any specific advice or content you would like us to talk about? Maybe protection online or digital advice…

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4.06%

1.35%

Gross PA / AER* Variable if 1 or fewer withdrawals are made per calendar year

Gross PA / AER* Variable if you withdraw money more than once per calendar year

Marketing campaigns • Can include promotion of our products • Product launches and criteria changes

Visit the Mutual section of our website

*Smart Money People - prize draw Prize draw terms and conditions: All feedback is reviewed by our management team, so any feedback, big or small, will help provide us with valuable insight and ensure that we can continue to provide a personal service to you. There is no cost to provide feedback; simply complete the online feedback form including your contact details, or alternatively complete a feedback form after receiving a service in one of our local branches. The email address or phone number you provide may be used by us to respond to your feedback, so we can further improve your experience with us, but will not be used for marketing purposes. As part of our customer feedback programme, Harpenden Building Society supports its Charity of the Year. We will contribute up to £100 per calendar month, provided that at least one completed item of customer feedback is received during that month via our partners at smart money people. The monthly contribution will be funded directly by Harpenden Building Society and paid to the Charity of the Year by the 5th working day of the following month. The contribution amount is not calculated per customer, per application, or per feedback submission, and no prize draw or competition is operated in connection with customer feedback. Employees and board members of Harpenden Building Society may submit feedback but are not eligible to influence or determine the charitable contribution.

Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 45

Here’s what some of our members have said about us this year…

“They took the time to explain account options and rates. Really great, friendly and efficient service”

With over 1 million customer reviews, Smart Money People is the UK’s dedicated financial services review site. Smart Money People is where people can read and leave reviews for financial services companies. By reading these reviews, both individuals and businesses can make more informed decisions about who to trust for savings, mortgages, insurance policy, credit card, loan, or pension.

“Pleasant, friendly, knowledgeable staff” “Always friendly, always helpful, always have time for you. Nice to have a personal touch and have someone to speak to if you have any queries”

Your feedback could win a £100 donation to our nominated Charity of the Year*

4.13

We’re always looking at ways to improve our service for our members, so if there’s something you think we could do better, or would like to see more of, or you think we’re doing really well we’d love to hear from you. We’d really appreciate if you could take the time to review your experience with us on the Smart Money People website. All feedback is reviewed by our management team so any feedback, big or small, will help provide us with valuable insight and ensure that we can continue to provide a personal service to you. Sometimes it is often the small things that make the big difference!

Scan me to leave a review

46 Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society

“Most helpful regarding savings, with the customer at the forefront at what they do”

Based on 462 reviews 5

80%

6% Smart Money People score correct as at 4th September 2026.

*Prize draw terms and conditions apply see page 45 for full details. Mutual Issue 8 Harpenden Building Society 47

Issue 8 - September 2026

Scan to view Mutual section of our website

Head Office

Mardall House, 9–11 Vaughan Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 4HU Tel: 01582 765411 Email: enquiries@harpendenbs.co.uk

harpendenbs.co.uk Published by Harpenden Building Society. Harpenden Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm reference number: 157260.