Saffron Building Society

Saffron Building Society, a mutual savings and mortgage society since 1849

Saffron Building Society is a mutual building society that has been serving the local community since 1849. Its mutual model means the organisation is owned by its members and operates for their benefit. It has several branches across the counties of Hertfordshire, Essex and Suffolk.

Savings products

The society offers various types of savings accounts, including easy access accounts, regular saver accounts, notice accounts, fixed rate bonds, Cash ISAs, children's accounts, business accounts, and community and charity savings accounts. Managing these accounts includes paying in funds, dealing with maturing accounts, online access and downloading forms. The society publishes its interest rates and offers calculators.

Mortgages and property development finance

In mortgages, Saffron serves both existing and new customers, with a full range of mortgages and options to change an existing mortgage. It also offers Property Development Finance, a service where the society highlights its accumulated experience to help achieve a successful outcome. The website includes mortgage repayment calculators and relevant documents.

Financial advice and member support

The society offers independent financial advice and a free financial wellbeing review, in which a consultant discusses available options over the phone. The member support section brings together FAQs, information on mortgage payment difficulties, savings promises, bereavement support, power of attorney and fraud awareness. Updated information is also provided for customers affected by The Will Writing Company.

Savings promises and protection

The organisation's Savings Promises include penalty-free access to money when personal circumstances change significantly, for example in cases of critical illness or redundancy. The society is a member of the FSCS (Financial Services Compensation Scheme).

Community activity

Saffron maintains a commitment to supporting and investing in its local community through grants, volunteering, a community choir and fundraising activities. Its initiatives include the Saffron Community Fund, the Money Ready Partnership, WizeUp, Saffron Community Link and the Saffron Singers Community Choir, as well as sponsorships. The organisation publishes a blog with news and market trends.

Membership, careers and corporate governance

Membership, member events and corporate information (the board and its committees, pension scheme, annual general meeting, financial results and the society's rules) are part of the organisation's activities. In terms of employment, Saffron offers a full induction programme, ongoing training and development, and the opportunity to influence decisions in a professional and open environment. The organisation has initiatives such as Women in Finance.

Regulation and corporate details

Saffron Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register no. 100015), except for Commercial and Investment Buy to Let Mortgages. Its registered office is Saffron House, 1a Market Street, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1HX.

Location and contact

Saffron House, 1a Market Street, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 1HX