CHESHIRE West and Chester Council is championing local credit unions and has launched a video promoting them on its Cheshire West TV channel.
Residents have two credit unions to help them fight the credit crunch.
Both are working hard to give people a real alternative to doorstep lenders and payday loan companies.
West Cheshire Credit Union and the Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union are both featured in a new video, which highlights the services they offer and how to get in touch with them.
Chairman of the council’s recession committee, Cllr Stuart Parker, said: “I am a very strong supporter of our local credit unions. People in debt sometimes don’t know who to turn to and can become victims of loan sharks.
“Credit unions offer affordable help and I’m delighted we are able to promote their services in this way.”
West Cheshire Credit Union’s Helen Wilman said: “People would previously have paid an interest charge of £225 on a small loan of £300 taken from a doorstep lender.
“Credit unions charge no more than £40 on the same amount, with a number of easy ways to repay including weekly cash repayments at local offices or by PayPoint at any Post Office and many local shops.”
Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union’s Ed Green added: “Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union also offers loans without a member having to save with them first.
“Both credit unions work with Co-operative Electrical Services to give members an affordable, competitive option when looking to buy new white goods, like washing machines or fridges, without having to use expensive weekly repayment stores.”
If you would like to join one of the credit unions, please contact Cheshire Neighbours Credit Union on 0300 111 2150 or www.cncu.co.uk. Contact West Cheshire Credit Union on 01244 399006 or visit www.wccu.co.uk for details.
The video can be viewed on Cheshire West TV at www.cheshirewest.tv.
