Cash-strapped working families who turn to doorstep lenders and expensive credit cards are being supported to break the cycle of debt as part of a new Manchester Credit Union campaign.
The first Credit Union Awareness Week has been launched by Manchester Credit Union to show workers there is another ethical way to borrow and save.
As part of the campaign the organisation hit the streets of the city’s boroughs including Altrincham and Chorlton to hand out information on what support can be given, along with a free pot of honey for all the ‘worker bees’.
Manchester Credit Union has helped save its members £3m in the last 12 months and supported hundreds of people out of debt – but says there are hundreds more out there they could be helping take control of their money matters.
Chief executive of Manchester Credit Union, Christine Moore, said: “Single mums, working families and young men and women are using expensive credit cards or payday loans when in a financial crisis, whether that be when a washing machine breaks down or unforeseen car repairs crop up.
“I would urge all these people to get in touch with us, so they no longer feel trapped and can break free from a cycle of debt that far too many of us are familiar with.
“Our members are at the heart of everything that we do, so we offer an ethical way to take out a loan while saving for your future.”
The campaign has been backed by actress and socialist Maxine Peake along with leading organisations like Wythenshawe Hospital and Labour MP for Wythenshawe and Sale East Mike Kane.
Mum-of-two Ciara Davies, from Levensulme, a financial inclusion manager at Great Places housing group has been a member of Manchester Credit Union for eight years.
The 37-year-old said: “Since being a member, it has helped me to make some big positive changes in my life; from moving house to creating a better work life balance for my young family.
“I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the option to borrow and make repayments that suit my needs.”
Credit Union Awareness Week has been held from October 17 to 21 #CUAW2016 to link in with International Credit Union Day on Thursday, October 20.
If you would like to learn more about Manchester Credit Union go to www.manchestercreditunion.co.uk where you can also enter a competition to win a Champagne afternoon tea for two at Honey Restaurant at Gotham Hotel.
