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These factsheets are designed to give you the information you need about savings, mortgages or the building society sector in general. Feel free to print off, share or download the information below.
Next steps
If you can't find what you are looking for, or think we are missing a topic, email simon.rex@bsa.org.uk
Building societies are owned by their savers and borrowers, not by external shareholders. This difference is reflected in everything that they do, including offering better interest rates, providing superior customer service, receiving fewer complaints and supporting regional economies.
"What is a building society?"
"What is mutuality?"
"What is the sector's role in society and economy?"
This handy leaflet aims to clear up some of the frequently asked questions the BSA receives, and provide an overview of the sector.
Building societies have a strong tradition of helping people to buy their own home. Whether you are looking to buy for the first time, move up the housing ladder, are thinking about building your own home, or are interested in alternative ways to get started - it is worth taking a look at this section.
A national campaign, led by the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) is helping people to spot and avoid loan sharks.
Financial education activities and exercises for children, parents and carers to use while schools are closed due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Financial education charity MyBnk also offers a range of video sessions you can access here.
The BSA is the voice for 49 UK building societies and credit unions. Find out more about our members in this useful infographic.
This leaflet provides information on what to do when financial abuse happens and the support customers can get from their financial services firm.
There is a lot more to personal finance than savings and mortgages.
Take a look at this section if you would like to know more about avoiding fraudsters, complaining if you have an issue with your provider, helping someone without mental capacity, or investigating your rights as a building society member.
Building societies fund most of their mortgage lending from consumer savings. Most societies have about eight savers for every one borrower and they work hard to balance the rates they charge borrowers and pay savers.
Find out more about saving with a building society in this section.