The Cumberland Building Society has launched a major listening initiative that puts communities at the heart of its future strategy.

Starting in May, the region’s largest building society is going on the road to speak to the people of our region, giving them the opportunity to share their views on what they want and what matters most to them.

The initiative is being spearheaded by the Society’s new Chief Executive, Stuart Miller, who is keen to hear the opinions of local people and businesses to help build The Cumberland’s future.

‘Community Conversations’, the landmark community engagement programme, will kick off in The Lanes in Carlisle on Thursday 7 May. Shoppers will find a cosy living room in the pop-up shop next to Primark, where they’ll be encouraged to come in, take a seat on The Cumberland’s green sofa and have their say in an atmosphere which encourages participants to talk freely and share their views.

Further events will take place across the Cumberland’s operating area during the summer.

Stuart, who took the helm as The Cumberland’s new chief executive in March, said: “We want to get to the heart of what the people in our community, including businesses and community partners, value from The Cumberland and where we can improve. These roadshows are part of a wider plan of engagement with customers and organisations that are passionate about supporting the future prosperity of the region.

“These conversations will help shape our strategy and decision-making going forward, so whenever you see that green sofa, please do stop by for a chat.”

On the day, The Cumberland will be interested in conversations around what matters most to people, whether that be exceptional service, a high street presence or the option for online banking.

Participants will also be asked to add to The Cumberland’s ‘to-do’ list of key themes it should focus on, and to cast their vote on what community initiatives it should support.

Stuart added: “The Cumberland’s purpose is to provide banking services that are kinder to people and communities. Listening to our customers and the wider community and acting on what they tell us, is a vital part of that.”

Since Stuart’s arrival at The Cumberland, he has embarked on a tour of its branches. He has also been busy meeting with local organisations, community groups and members of the business community including Cumberland Council, BAE and Carlisle United.

Based in Carlisle, The Cumberland is the largest financial institution in the area with assets of £3.29 billion, mortgage lending of £2.76 billion and 31 branches.

Unusually for a building society, The Cumberland offers current accounts to individuals and businesses, as well as providing commercial lending to businesses.

The Cumberland remains committed to its branch network and in 18 communities, from Lockerbie to Ulverston, it is now the only provider still offering high street banking services.

Find out more at cumberland.co.uk