Families in Greater Manchester are being urged to start saving money now in time for next Christmas.

In 2017, Manchester Credit Union saw a surge in membership, helping more people that ever access affordable loans – with 9,000 people in 2017 compared to 6,000 in 2016.

Now the organisation wants to encourage more residents to join up to make 2018 the year to take control of their finances.

The credit union has seen an increase in loans year-on-year with the amount given out for 2016 totalling £4.3m compared to £6.4m in 2017.

Manchester Credit Union chief executive Christine Moore said: “At the start of this New Year, when resolutions are being made, I would urge everyone to take control of their personal finances, and we can help with that.

“It is encouraging that more and more people are turning to us for support rather than high interest loans and also that our members’ savings have increased.

“Now we want more people to join a credit union, so they can be more prepared for next year’s festivities, by starting to save with our Christmas Club.

“People can also be safe in the knowledge that if they have spent more than they intended over this Christmas period, that we can help clear off expensive debts – whether that be a credit card or pay day loan, and also help to avoid high interest repayments in the future.”

Money Advice Trust is also urging low income households to join a local credit union and encouraging people to make a plan for 2018 by budgeting each month and dealing with debt as soon as possible.

Christine added: “If you’re worried about money you owe, then it’s best to get advice as early as you can, I would urge residents to get in touch with us so we can provide support.”