Citizen Gathering - Banking in St Neots

Citizen Gathering: Banking in St Neots - What’s Gone, What’s Next

Wednesday 12 November, 6–8pm

Citizen Hub, St Neots

Facilitated by Richard Shaw MBE, Chair of the St Neots Initiative

Overview

St Neots has seen a rapid decline in high street banking. For many residents and local businesses, that has meant longer journeys, fewer options and barriers to basic financial services. This open forum brings the community together to share lived experience, define the problem clearly and explore practical solutions that could restore access to essential banking and financial support in our town.

Why this matters (your voice first)

We’ll start by hearing from citizens, community groups, and businesses about the real-world impact of losing local banking services: access to cash and deposits, business banking, support for older residents, digital skills and confidence using online tools. Your stories and insights will help define the need and set priorities for action.

Where solutions might come from

Alongside listening, we’ll examine viable routes forward. The St Neots Initiative is actively exploring options to bring back banking services as part of a wider Finance and Digital Inclusion offer for the town, in partnership with local organisations and providers. We’ll outline possible models, seek feedback on what would work here and identify the next steps we should take together.

What to expect

A clear picture of what has changed on our high street and why it matters

Open floor for residents, businesses and community groups to share experiences

Discussion of potential solutions, including a Finance and Digital Inclusion hub model

Practical next steps the town can take, with roles for partners and volunteers

Light refreshments and time to connect

Who should attend

Residents, local businesses, community organisations, youth and older people’s groups, councillors, voluntary sector partners and anyone with an interest in the future of the high street and fair access to financial services.

How your input will be used

Your contributions will shape the Initiative’s approach and help prioritise next steps. This event is one touchpoint in a wider campaign running through November and into the run-up to Christmas. We’ll share an online survey after the event to broaden community input.

Access & details

Date/Time: Wednesday 12 November, 6–8pm

Venue: Citizen Hub, St Neots

Facilitator: Richard Shaw MBE, Chair of the St Neots Initiative

Format: Short briefing, open forum, solution exploration, next steps

Refreshments: Paid bar available (Free soft drinks)

About the St Neots Initiative

The St Neots Initiative is a community-led partnership focused on regeneration, community voice, collaboration and practical progress for the town.

Reserve your free place and be part of the conversation.