21-27 September 2026 is UK Savings Week.

Every year, UK Savings Week encourages people across the UK to think about one simple idea: saving little and often can make a real difference over time.

Led by the Building Societies Association and supported by banks, building societies and credit unions across the country, the campaign aims to help people build positive savings habits, whatever their starting point. We’re proud to support the campaign again this year.

At No1 CopperPot, we know that everyone’s situation is different. Some people are building their first emergency fund. Others are saving for a home, a family holiday, or greater peace of mind at the end of the month.

And for some, saving simply isn’t possible right now.

That’s OK too.

If you’re currently focused on managing debt, that may be the most important step for you today. Building savings can come later.

UK Savings Week isn’t about putting pressure on people to save large amounts. It’s about recognising that even small contributions can help strengthen your financial resilience over time.

Why savings matter

Having money set aside for unexpected costs can help reduce financial stress and provide greater confidence when life throws up surprises.

Research from the Financial Conduct Authority’s Financial Lives 2024 Survey found that one in ten UK adults have no cash savings, while a further 21% have less than £1,000 available for emergencies.

Separate UK Savings Week research found that around 14 million people across the UK have less than £100 in savings to fall back on.

For the police family, unexpected expenses can arrive just as they do for anyone else. Whether it’s a car repair, a household bill, or an unforeseen change in circumstances, having a savings buffer can help you feel more prepared.

How much should you save?

There isn’t a single answer that works for everyone.

The amount you save will depend on your goals, household budget and current circumstances. The most important thing is finding an amount that’s realistic and sustainable for you.

If you’re starting from scratch, MoneyHelper suggests aiming to build an emergency fund of around three months’ essential outgoings in an easy-access account. That can feel like a big target, but it doesn’t need to happen overnight.

What matters most is creating a habit that works for you.

Whether it’s £5, £10 or £50 a month, regular saving can help you move closer to your financial goals.

Getting started

Starting to save doesn’t have to be complicated.

Many savings accounts can be opened with a small initial contribution, and adding what you can, when you can, soon builds momentum.

If you’d like to see how regular savings could grow over time, try our Savings Calculator.

You can also explore our financial wellbeing resources for practical budgeting guidance and money management tips.

Some people prefer a structured approach. Savings challenges, such as a 52-week savings challenge or a no-spend weekend, can be a useful way to stay motivated and build confidence.

Whichever approach you choose, the principle is the same: small amounts saved consistently can make a big difference over time.

Saving with No1 CopperPot

That same principle sits at the heart of our savings products.

Our Member Account is designed exclusively for the police and is the account through which membership begins. It offers easy access to your savings and can be opened with contributions from as little as £5 a month.

Savings can be made through payroll deduction or pension deduction (in most forces) or Direct Debit, making it simple to save regularly without having to think about it each month.

If you’d like to help family members build their own savings habits, our Family Member Account extends the same member-owned approach to eligible family members outside the police service. Please note: family members must live at your address at the point of joining.

FAQs

What is UK Savings Week?

UK Savings Week is a national campaign that encourages people across the UK to build positive savings habits. The focus is on helping people understand the value of saving regularly, regardless of how much they can afford to put aside.

When does UK Savings Week 2026 take place?

UK Savings Week 2026 runs from 21-27 September 2026.

Who runs UK Savings Week?

The campaign is organised by the Building Societies Association (BSA), with support from banks, building societies, credit unions, charities and financial education organisations across the UK.

Do I need to save with a particular provider to take part?

No. UK Savings Week is about encouraging good savings habits rather than promoting specific products or providers. You can take part regardless of where you choose to save.

What if I can’t save right now?

That’s completely understandable.

If you’re dealing with financial pressure or focusing on paying off debt, that may be the right priority at the moment. Take a look at our guidance on managing debt, and come back to saving when you’re ready.

Where can I find out more?

Visit uksavingsweek.co.uk for more information, resources and tools.

Take one small step this UK Savings Week

You don’t need to transform your finances overnight.

A small step today can help build a stronger financial future tomorrow. Whether that’s opening a savings account, increasing a contribution, or simply deciding what you’d like to save for, every journey starts somewhere.

For the police family, building financial resilience is rarely about one big decision. More often, it’s the small, consistent actions that make the greatest difference.