The Cambridge Building Society has set out the scale of its community investment during its 175th anniversary year, including more than £175,000 in charitable donations.
The mutual has published its latest Impact Review, outlining activity across 2025 as it marked a milestone year for the organisation and its role in supporting communities across Cambridgeshire and the surrounding region.
The report highlights a range of initiatives spanning charitable giving, social investment and housing support, alongside a longer-term commitment of £1 million over the next 10 years through the Greater Cambridge Impact fund, aimed at tackling homelessness and inequality.
During the year, more than £175,000 was distributed to charities and community groups, including £117,914 awarded to 10 organisations through the Cambridge Community Fund. The society also worked with local partners including Emmaus Cambridge, Jimmy’s Cambridge and It Takes a City, contributing funding and volunteer time to support those experiencing homelessness.
Staff engagement formed a significant part of the programme, with employees contributing 934 volunteering hours across a range of community initiatives. A further 285 hours were dedicated specifically to homelessness-focused projects.
The society also introduced its first multi-year grant, committing £50,000 per year over three years to The Angels Foundation UK, providing longer-term funding certainty for the charity.
Alongside its charitable activity, the report points to continued development of its Rent to Home scheme, designed to support renters in transitioning to homeownership. The initiative returns up to 70% of rent paid to tenants, which can then be used towards a deposit when purchasing a property.
Two new households moved into Rent to Home properties in Woolpit during the year, while three tenants completed purchases of their first homes through the scheme.
The society has also continued its education and outreach work, including supporting 46 year 9 students through a partnership with Form the Future, focused on building confidence and financial awareness.
Elsewhere, it hosted its Making The Difference Conference, bringing together 50 businesses, charities and civic organisations to examine collaborative approaches to long-term social impact.
Carole Charter, chief commercial officer at The Cambridge Building Society, said: “Reflecting on the different ways the Society has been Making The Difference brings me tremendous pride, and celebrating our 175th anniversary has made 2025 particularly special.
“For 175 years the Society has helped people have a home, provided a safe place for their savings, and supported communities across Cambridgeshire. This year’s review is a chance to look back with pride while also focusing on the year ahead.
“With more than £175,000 donated to charities, a £1 million commitment to Greater Cambridge Impact, and continued growth of our Rent to Home scheme, this anniversary year has shown what can be achieved when the Society and community work together.
“The Cambridge Building Society looks forward to continuing to invest in the people, causes and places that help Cambridge and the surrounding towns and villages thrive.”
The review also notes that applications are now open for the next round of funding through the Community Fund, which offers grants of up to £20,000 to organisations supporting housing and shelter needs within a 15-mile radius of the society’s branch network.
Applications are assessed twice yearly, with submission deadlines set for 1 May and 1 November.
Separately, applications have reopened for the Rent to Home scheme, with three properties currently available, including a family home in Northstowe and two flats in Great Shelford.
