We pride ourselves on being a mutual organisation, which means we’re owned by you, our members, and exist solely for your benefit.
type
Building Society
Owned by and responsible to their members (rather than shareholders)
Focus on providing mortgages and other services that help members buy homes
services provided
Cash deposits/business savings; mortgages/loans including residential and specialist property finance; development/renovation finance
customers
Individual, Children, Business, Community and Charity (Savings)
profit reinvestment
Reinvests profits to benefit its members and the broader community, for example via the Saffron Community Fund
ethical credentials
charity work
Saffron Building Society runs the Saffron Community Fund, a philanthropic arm in partnership with the Essex Community Foundation. It provides grants (up to £5,000) to local charities, community groups, and volunteer initiatives across Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk. Employees help review applications, and the fund has donated over £250,000 since its inception.
Beyond grants, Saffron supports volunteering, sponsorships, and financial education, reinforcing its commitment to community development and social responsibility.
They’re accredited by the Good Business Charter – which ensures adherence to 10 key principles (among them Diversity & Inclusion, Pay Real Living Wage, Pay Fair Tax & Engage in Ethical Sourcing).
controversies
mismanagement
Between 2005 and 2018, Saffron Building Society referred customers to The Will Writing Company, whose trusts were later mismanaged by Philips Trust Corporation, causing significant financial losses. The FCA ruled the society was not legally liable, and Saffron has not fully compensated affected clients, though it has offered limited voluntary support.