West Brom Building Society has become a principal partner of The Albion Foundation in a new agreement focused on financial education, life skills and social mobility across the region.

The partnership brings together the two West Midlands organisations, with the building society set to support programmes delivered through the Foundation’s existing community networks.

West Brom said the initiative would help it reach more people across the Black Country and surrounding areas, while also creating additional volunteering opportunities for its staff.

The society has longstanding links with West Bromwich Albion Football Club, having served as the club’s main kit sponsor between 1997 and 2004.

The latest partnership will build on those ties while supporting the Foundation’s work with local communities.

Jonathan Ward, deputy director of The Albion Foundation, said: “We are excited and extremely pleased to have begun this partnership with West Brom Building Society.

“Since we began speaking with the team at the West Brom, we’ve been overwhelmed by their enthusiasm and passion for the work we do.

“We’re delighted to have their support as we continue to make a difference in the community and aim to raise the bar even further.”

Gareth Madeley, chief customer officer at West Brom Building Society, said: “We’re passionate about making a positive difference in the communities we serve, so we’re pleased to be supporting The Albion Foundation.

“As two organisations with strong community roots and shared values around inclusion, opportunity and empowerment, we’re excited about the impact we can make together.

“The Foundation’s work closely aligns with our purpose and community-focused ethos. Through our combined efforts, we’ll be able to support more people across the region, create meaningful opportunities for colleagues to get involved, and help strengthen communities across the Black Country and beyond.”