During a fact-finding day on poverty and wealth creation in Leeds, Bishop Nick heard about the work of Leeds City Credit Union and their hope that churches and church schools will help make their non-profit financial services available where they’re most needed.
At the Loan Shop in Harehills (one of seven outlets for Leeds Credit Union) Chief Exec Chris Smyth said, “We we want to work with churches and church schools as they are trusted places where people can be made aware of our affordable loans and competitive savings plans”.
Bishop Nick said, “Ever-worsening debt is a massive burden for many. The provision of affordable lending alternatives is one way of helping people with that burden, and I’m pleased that some churches are supporting the work of credit unions in their areas and I encourage more to get involved.”
Chris adds, "Churches can inform people of our services and they can also act as collection points for money deposits or as venues for financial planning surgeries, as some people feel more comfortable going to a church instead of council premises. In all cases we provide training and support for the volunteers.
“And church schools are great places to set up saving clubs for children, because, as well as imparting preliminary financial awareness to children, they introduce parents and teachers to the help Credit Unions have to offer.”
If your church or school would like to get involved, please contact Joanne Rogers, JRogers@leedscitycreditunion.co.uk or 07920 116134.
More information and resources about credit unions can be found on the CofE website - https://www.churchofengland.org/our-views/home-and-community-affairs/home-affairs-policy/work-and-the-economy/creditunions.aspx