Support when you need it most
How do I register as Power of Attorney (POA) with Ecology?
Fill in our registration form and return it to us along with the original POA document or a certified copy. We will also need proof of your address if you are not an Ecology Member yourself.
We will return the documents to you and send confirmation of the registration by post. Once you have received your confirmation letter you will be able to register for online viewing access
What identification will I need to provide?
You will need to provide two forms of identification. The easiest way is to give us permission to run an electronic identity check . You can do this using this Consent to an Electronic Search form.
Alternatively, you can send us two forms of identification. The acceptable documents can be found here.
The acceptable documents are listed here.
How do I register to view the savings account online?
You can register to view the savings account online here.
Please note you will register in your name, not the name on the account you will be viewing.
What happens once I have registered as a POA?
We will write to you to confirm you can now access the accounts and provide details on how to do so.
Please note, you will only be able to view the account online, you will not be able to make withdrawals.
Can I operate the account online as a POA?
Powers of Attorney can view savings account(s) online but they cannot make any withdrawals. This must be done by post or telephone.
What’s the difference between a Lasting Power of Attorney, Enduring Power of Attorney and a Deputy?
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA): a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people to help you make decisions or make decisions on your behalf.
There are two types of LPA :
- Health and welfare
- Property and financial affairs.
You must have mental capacity when you make your LPA.
Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA): EPAs have been replaced by LPAs but can still be used if you have one. An EPA is a legal document that lets you appoint one or more people to help you make decisions or make decisions on your behalf. EPAs only cover property and financial matters.
Deputies: A deputy is appointed by the Court of Protection if an individual does not have mental capacity (cannot make decisions for themselves). There are two types of deputyship:
- Personal welfare, where you make decisions about their medical treatment and care.
- Property and financial affairs where you can make decisions about their money and property.
If you are appointed as a deputy, the court order will say what you can and can’t do.
If you’re worried about money or are experiencing financial difficulty, get in touch. Here are some of the ways we could help, depending on your situation:
- Arrange a temporary payment plan with you.
- Change the way you make your payments, or the date you make them.
- Let you pay back your mortgage over a longer period (reducing your monthly payments).
- Change the repayment method of your mortgage.
- Defer your monthly mortgage payment (take a payment holiday).
- A combination of any of the above.
We’ve signed the Government Mortgage Charter. The Mortgage Charter is a set of universal standards to help and reassure mortgage holders worried by high interest rates.
Getting more help
You can get free, independent and impartial debt advice from the following organisations:
They’ll go through your situation, discuss your budget and what you owe, and make a plan with you. You’ll find lots of information on their websites. They can also make sure you’re getting any benefits you might be entitled to.
These organisations are all regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, so you know you’re in safe hands.
They do not work for us or any other lender. They’ll advise you based on what’s best for you and your situation.
The Building Societies Association also has help information on its website about ‘What to do if you can’t pay your mortgage’. This has further advice and resources which you may find helpful.
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud or a scam, or if you are worried about suspicious activity, let us know as soon as possible.
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01535 650770
We’re open Monday to Friday (except bank holidays) between 9am to 5pm only. We only process payments within these times so there’s no risk of money leaving your account outside of these times.
Learn more about fraud and scams.
We understand that dementia can bring unique challenges for individuals and their families. We’re here to support you and to help make managing your finances as simple as possible. Below are some frequently asked questions and ways we can help.
What should I do if I or a loved one needs help managing finances?
If you or someone you care for is living with dementia, we can help you make managing finances simpler. You can ask us to:
- Set up joint accounts or Power of Attorney access for trusted family members or friends.
- Help you understand how Powers of Attorney work and how they can be applied to accounts.
We will explain everything clearly and ensure your preferences are respected.
Can I appoint someone to help manage my account?
Yes. If you’re ready to appoint someone to manage your account, we can help you register a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or other legal authority. Our team will guide you through the steps and let you know about any forms or documents we need.
I’m worried about making decisions or understanding financial information. Can I get extra help?
Absolutely. We can make adjustments to suit your needs, such as:
- Give you more time to process information during calls.
- Provide written summaries of important points.
- Explain things in simpler terms or use larger print.
Just let us know what would help you feel comfortable.
Where else can I get support for dementia?
These organisations offer practical and emotional advice and support that you may find useful.
Alzheimer’s Society
The Alzheimer’s Society provides support and resources for people living with dementia and their carers.
Phone: 0333 150 3456
Visit: alzheimers.org.uk
Dementia UK
Dementia UK offers specialist dementia support, including Admiral Nurses.
Phone: 0800 888 6678
Visit: dementiauk.org
Age UK
Age UK offers advice on dementia and related issues, including financial planning.
Phone: 0800 055 6112
Visit: ageuk.org.uk
Rising costs are having an impact on lots of people in different ways. From increases in energy bills to having to use your savings more often. No matter your situation, we’re here to help you.
Help with your mortgage
If you’re worried about paying your Ecology mortgage, the best thing to do is to contact us. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can help you. You can call us on 01535 650770 or send us a message using our online form.
Speaking to us won’t affect your credit file. That may only happen if we go on to make an arrangement with you. We will report any arrears on your account though, and this could affect your ability to get credit in future.
Additional help
We know everyone is different. And we know that what you need can change depending on what's happening in your life. If there’s ever a time you want more support from us, we're here to help.
You may need a large print version of a leaflet. Or more help understanding what something means. You may have been made redundant from work. Or perhaps you'd like us to send letters to your adult children so they can support you.
Get in touch to let us know how we can help.
