CROYDONPLUS NEWS ARCHIVE
4th November 2025
We’re Becoming Your Community Bank!
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news - from 1st December 2025, we will officially become Your Community Bank.
This new name puts you and your community at the very heart of everything we do. It reflects our long-standing values of trust, fairness, and community spirit - values we’ve proudly upheld for more than 25 years.
While our name is changing, our mission remains the same - to provide safe, ethical, and accessible financial services that help local people save and borrow responsibly, with confidence and support.
Why the Change?
As we’ve grown, we’ve evolved beyond being simply a credit union for one area. Our new name, Your Community Bank, better reflects who we are today - a member-owned, community-led organisation serving the people of Croydon, Merton, and Sutton.
The rebrand represents an exciting new chapter, but our commitment to putting members first remains unchanged. We will continue offering the same trusted, people-focused service that has always defined us.
What to Expect
Over the coming weeks, you’ll start to see our new branding appear across our communications, website, and materials.
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From 5th November, our emails will come from our new @yourcb.org.uk addresses.
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You can still reach us at our @croydonplus.co.uk addresses - all messages sent there will continue to arrive safely.
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Our new website, www.yourcb.org.uk, is now live with a holding page and will be officially unveiled on 1st December.
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Until then, members can continue to access all services as usual via www.croydonplus.co.uk.
What’s Staying the Same
Everything you value about our service remains the same:
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Your accounts, services, and our friendly, familiar team
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Our dedication to supporting members and strengthening local communities
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Full regulatory protection and oversight
We remain authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the PRA (Firm Reference Number: 213603). Your savings continue to be protected up to £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).
We will continue to be registered as Croydon, Merton & Sutton Credit Union Ltd, but from 1st December 2025 we will be trading as Your Community Bank, instead of CroydonPlus.
A New Name, Same Commitment
Rebranding as Your Community Bank is about looking to the future - strengthening our identity and making it clearer who we serve and what we stand for.
Our dedicated staff, volunteers, and Board of Directors remain focused on providing the personalised, community-first service you know and trust. Together, we’ll continue to help local people achieve financial wellbeing and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. We can’t wait to welcome you to the next chapter as Your Community Bank.
26th August 2025
CroydonPlus Credit Union is proud to join this national initiative led by the Money and Pensions Service to help build a Nation of Savers - especially supporting those on low-to-modest incomes to save regularly and build financial resilience.
By signing the Charter, we’re committing to:
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Supporting regular saving habits
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Helping members understand their financial goals
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Ensuring access to savings when needed
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Keeping you informed about your options
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Promoting the importance of saving in our local community
These commitments reflect our ongoing dedication to supporting your financial wellbeing - whether you are saving for unexpected expenses, working toward a specific goal, or simply seeking greater financial security.
More information about our commitment and what it means for members is available here: https://www.croydonplus.co.uk/post/committed-to-you-croydonplus-have-signed-the-savings-charter
25th August 2025 - BLOG POST
Committed to You: CroydonPlus have signed the Savings Charter
We’re excited to share some important news! CroydonPlus Credit Union has officially signed the Savings Charter, a national initiative led by the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS). This commitment is part of a wider UK strategy to improve financial wellbeing and build a Nation of Savers - especially focusing on helping people on low-to-modest incomes save regularly and build financial resilience. The Savings Charter brings together banks, building societies, credit unions, and fintech companies to work collaboratively toward raising the profile of saving and supporting savers across the country. By signing the Charter, CroydonPlus is making five key commitments to our valued members: 1. Supporting financial resilience through saving - We’re dedicated to helping you build a secure financial future by encouraging regular saving habits. Even small amounts saved regularly can add up over time to provide a safety net or help reach your goals. 2. Helping you understand your financial goals and needs - Everyone’s financial situation is different, and we want to support you by understanding your individual goals. This way, we can provide tailored advice and savings options that suit your unique circumstances. 3. Ensuring you have access to your savings when you need it - Life can be unpredictable. We believe your savings should be accessible when you face unexpected expenses, so you can use your funds when it matters most. 4. Keeping you informed about your savings and options - We’ll keep you up to date with clear information about your savings, any changes, and the options available to you. Being informed means you’re always in control of your money. 5. Promoting the importance of saving in our local communities - We’re committed to talking about saving and financial wellbeing in local schools, workplaces, and community groups - to help more people understand how to build their savings. At CroydonPlus, we know that saving regularly, even in small amounts, can make a big difference - whether it’s for emergencies, future plans, or just peace of mind. By joining the Savings Charter, we’re reaffirming our commitment to be your trusted partner in helping you build a brighter financial future. We offer a range of savings options designed to suit different needs and help you save in a way that works best for you. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your savings, we’re here to help every step of the way. Together, we're building stronger financial futures! #CreditUnion #SavingsCharter #FinancialFuture #MaPS 26/8/2025
11th August 2025
Consumer Credit Awards 2025 from Smart Money People
As many of you already know, we were honoured to be named finalists at this year’s Consumer Credit Awards by Smart Money People
While we didn’t take home the top prize this time, being recognised among the UK’s leading credit unions is a fantastic achievement and a true reflection of our team’s dedication - and the incredible support we continue to receive from our members.
A big congratulations to all of this year’s winners across every category. These awards are a celebration of the vital work being done across the sector to support people and communities nationwide.
We’re especially grateful to everyone who took the time to vote for us and share a review. Some of the feedback we’ve received has genuinely made us proud! It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we’re having, and why we do what we do.
Although this year’s awards are now closed, you can still leave a review and share your experience with us on the Smart Money People website. Your feedback helps us learn, grow, and continue improving.
Thank you again for your continued trust and support. Here’s to building on this momentum and reaching even greater heights in the year ahead!
14th July 2025 - BLOG POST
10 Years of dedicated service - thank you Eniola!
Since joining in 2015, Eniola has made a lasting impact across multiple departments. For a number of years, Eniola worked across both the Loans and Credit Control departments - initially splitting his time between loans and credit control before focusing fully on credit control. Balancing the demands of lending with the responsibilities of Credit Control is a reflection of his adaptability and steady approach to work. Now, as Credit Control Manager, Eniola concentrates on supporting members with repayments while safeguarding the financial health of the credit union. His role is vital in protecting members’ money and ensuring the organisation’s long-term sustainability. He works closely with members when their financial situations change, helping them navigate repayment challenges with fairness and understanding. Eniola is known for being reliable and dedicated, with an excellent eye for detail! He is someone who gets on with the job, brings stability to the team, and always works with the best interests of the organisation in mind. Our CEO, Michael Wilson shared: "Thank you for your incredible dedication and hard work over the past 10 years. Your support, guidance and contributions have made a real difference to our team. Even though you’re far away, we’re so grateful to have you with us. The future is bright!" We thank Eniola for his ten years of service and continued dedication to CroydonPlus Credit Union!
9th July 2025 - BLOG POST
Connecting with the Community: Summer Events 2025
Over the past few weeks, the CroydonPlus team has been out and about across the borough, taking part in three fantastic local events: the New Addington Carnival, Mitcham Carnival, and the South Norwood Festival. Each event was a brilliant opportunity to meet residents, share information about our services and celebrate the vibrant communities we proudly serve. We began at the New Addington Carnival, where we received a warm and enthusiastic welcome. It was a great chance to connect with local residents, chat with members and introduce new faces to the credit union. As always, the New Addington community showed strong support and we were glad to be part of such a well-loved event. Next, we attended the Mitcham Carnival, which brought together families and community groups from across the area. Our team was on hand to talk about ethical savings, affordable loans and how CroydonPlus supports financial wellbeing. With entertainment, food and community spirit in full flow, it was another fantastic day to be out meeting people. We wrapped up at the South Norwood Festival, which delivered a lively mix of music, culture and community stalls. The festival attracted a diverse crowd and gave us another great platform to raise awareness about our services and answer questions about how credit unions work. Across all three events one message was clear, people are looking for financial services they can trust - especially during challenging times! These events gave us the chance to speak directly with the community, offer guidance and show how CroydonPlus provides a real alternative to high-cost lenders and traditional banks. A huge thank you to the organisers of each event, and to everyone who took the time to visit our stand, ask questions or simply say hello. Being part of these events helps strengthen our connection to the community - and that’s what CroydonPlus is all about! We look forward to seeing even more of you at future events. As always, if you’d like to learn more about how we can support you, we’re just a call or visit away. #NewAddingtonCarnival #MitchamCarnival #SNCF
1st July 2025
We’re finalists in the 2025 Consumer Credit Awards!
CroydonPlus Credit Union has been shortlisted in two categories:
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Best Credit Union (South)
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Best Credit Union Loan Provider
These awards, run by Smart Money People, are especially meaningful because they’re voted for by customers - people like you! Being named a finalist is a huge honour and reflects the trust of our members and the dedication of our team. We're proud to stand for fair, affordable, and community-focused finance.
If you believe in what we do, there’s still time to vote and help us win!
Thank you for your continued support - this recognition belongs to all of us.
10th June 2025 - BLOG POST
20 Years of Dedication: Honouring Kavitha’s Incredible Journey at CroydonPlus
This year, CroydonPlus Credit Union proudly celebrates Kavitha’s 20th work anniversary - a milestone that reflects not just the passing of time, but a remarkable journey of service, dedication, and community impact. Kavitha joined CroydonPlus in 2005 and, over the past 20 years, has become an essential part of our organisation. Her calm manner, keen attention to detail, and unwavering dedication to our members have made her a valued colleague and a trusted figure across the credit union. Her two decades of service are a true reflection of her commitment to delivering high-quality support to the communities we serve. From managing member accounts to supporting internal operations, Kavitha’s influence is felt in every area of our work. She is always ready to help colleagues, offer guidance, and contribute her experience - especially during times of change and development. Over 20 years, Kavitha has handled around 47,000 phone calls from members and processed more than £10 million in loans - impressive numbers that speak to her tireless dedication. Beyond the figures, she’s known as a supportive mentor and a strong leader. One of her colleagues reflected ‘Kavitha is a great line manager and mentor to the loans team. She has guided me from reviewing my first loan to now successfully lending over £1 million to our members’. As the longest-serving member of our team, Kavitha sets a standard for what it means to serve with consistency, care, and integrity. Congratulations, Kavitha - and thank you for 20 outstanding years!
19th May 2025 - GUEST BLOG POST Stop Loan Sharks
We’re here whenever you’re ready: Stop Loan Sharks support is always on your terms!
Being in debt to a loan shark is more than just a financial burden - it can be a terrifying, isolating, and emotionally draining experience. For many, it feels like being trapped in a nightmare with no way out. Vulnerable borrowers, who may already be struggling, can find themselves spiralling deeper - borrowing more to stay afloat and sinking further under the control of the loan shark exploiting them. One borrower summed this up in heart-breaking terms, when asked by a support worker where he saw himself on the path to recovery. The support worker said: “I once put to him ‘if you are in a hole and I’ve got a ladder and you had to climb out, where would you see yourself on that ladder?’ His comment was ‘I can’t even see the ladder’.” This level of hopelessness is not uncommon among borrowers who have been targeted by loan sharks. Illegal lenders thrive on fear and silence. They don’t just lend money - they trap people in a cycle of intimidation and psychological control, leaving victims too afraid or ashamed to ask for help. But help is out there. When someone first hears about Stop Loan Sharks - whether through a poster, a conversation with a support worker, or word of mouth - it can feel like a glimmer of light. And yet, taking that first step toward getting support can still feel overwhelming. Borrowers may fear the consequences or blame themselves for getting into this situation. They may worry they won’t be believed, or that things will only get worse if they speak up. The Stop Loan Sharks team members understand this, and they want to make sure people realise they are not alone and there is a way out. Why reaching out matters The latest figures from Stop Loan Sharks show that it can take someone up to four years to seek help. In 2024, nearly half (49%) of people who reached out also reported mental health struggles - the highest level recorded to date. That indicates the emotional damage caused by illegal money lending. Taking that first step might be scary, but it can also be the turning point. It’s the start of a journey back to freedom - financially, emotionally, and mentally – and the sooner that step is taken, the better. What happens when you contact Stop Loan Sharks? Stop Loan Sharks officers are a team of professionals, trained to offer confidential, compassionate support tailored to the differing needs of borrowers. They also have the powers to investigate and ultimately prosecute loan sharks. When someone calls the 24/7 helpline (0300 555 2222), a real person will answer the phone. You won’t find a call centre or a recorded message, just someone ready to listen and help in any way they can. You may decide you’re not ready to act yet and that’s fine. You can call for advice, think things over, and reach out again when you're ready. You can talk to us anonymously if you prefer. We understand you may be worried or scared. You may prefer to use Live Chat or WhatsApp messaging rather than speak on the phone and that’s also fine, those options are available. You can also email or text. Stop Loan Sharks officers are also happy to meet and chat in person about your options and the support available. You may want to report a loan shark, but you’re worried about what will happen. The Stop Loan Sharks officer will simply take as much detail as you can give and begin a discreet investigation. Your call will always be treated in complete confidence. You may need more immediate support with debt or another issue. The officer can connect you with the right organisations that specialise in financial advice and emotional support. You are then free to contact Stop Loan Sharks again when you feel ready to take the next step. There’s never any pressure or judgement. Just support delivered at your pace. You're not alone – We’re here whenever you're ready Living under the control of a loan shark is not your only option. There is a way out, and it starts with reaching out. These are real words from borrowers who took that brave first step and contacted Stop Loan Sharks for help: “It feels like a massive weight has been lifted.” “You just understand and haven’t been judgemental.” “After reporting you came back really quickly which put my mind at rest.” “The person on the hotline created an immediate bond with me. I feel so much better.” If you’re not sure that your lender is a loan shark, there are a few red flags to look out for. They may not give you any paperwork or agreement about the loan They may keep items until the debt is paid such as your bank card or passport They are likely to add interest or charges so the amount you owe never seems to decrease They may use intimidation or violence if you don't pay If you or someone you know is affected by illegal money lending, please don’t wait. Contact Stop Loan Sharks today. Call the 24/7 free confidential helpline 0300 555 2222 Text or WhatsApp on 07860 022116 Email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk Visit www.stoploansharks.co.uk, where you will find a reporting form and a Live Chat option, available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. We’re here, whenever you’re ready. #HereWhenYoureReady #SupportNotPressure #StopLoanSharks #StopLoanSharksWeek2025
24th April 2025
Over £4 Million in Active Loans – All Supporting Our Members!
We’re proud to share an exciting milestone — over £4 million is currently out on loan to our members across Croydon, Merton, and Sutton.
This achievement is more than just a number. It represents real support for real people — helping with everything from unexpected expenses and home improvements to school costs and life’s bigger moments.
At Croydon Plus Credit Union, our mission has always been to provide fair, affordable, and responsible lending. Reaching this milestone highlights the ongoing trust our members place in us, and our continued commitment to putting people before profit.
We’re here to make a difference and thanks to our amazing members, we are doing just that.
8th April 2025 - BLOG POST
Consumer Credit Awards 2025 - We need your vote!
CroydonPlus Credit Union is excited to announce its participation in the Consumer Credit Awards 2025, hosted by Smart Money People, the UK’s leading platform for financial services reviews. Now in its eighth year, the annual Consumer Credit Awards celebrate customer satisfaction within the financial services sector, recognising outstanding performance from credit unions, loan providers, and community finance organisations. This year, CroydonPlus is eligible for the following categories: Best Credit Union (South) Best Credit Union Loan Provider CroydonPlus is calling on its members to support the credit union by casting their votes starting Monday, 7th April 2025. Members can vote through the official Consumer Credit Awards website, where they will also have the opportunity to leave a review and share their experiences with the credit union. In addition to supporting CroydonPlus, voters will automatically be entered into a £1,000 cash prize draw. It only takes a few minutes to vote, and your feedback will be invaluable in helping CroydonPlus continue improving its services for the community. Key Dates to Remember: Voting Opens: 7 April 2025 Finalists Announced: 25 June 2025 Voting Closes: 15 July 2025 Winners Revealed: 7 August 2025 The Consumer Credit Awards are widely regarded as one of the most trusted indicators of customer satisfaction in the financial services industry. Powered entirely by real customer reviews, the awards celebrate those organisations that are making a real difference in the sector. "We're incredibly excited to be involved in this prestigious awards program," said Michael Wilson, CEO of CroydonPlus Credit Union. "This is a wonderful opportunity for our members to have their voices heard, and their support will help us make an even greater impact in the community." CroydonPlus encourages all members to participate and help the credit union secure a spot in the finals. Voting opens on 7 April 2025, and remember, voting enters you into a £1,000 prize draw! For more information and to cast your vote, visit the official voting page here https://www.smartmoneypeople.com/croydon-plus-reviews/products
27th March 2025
We are delighted to share the success of our recent Annual General Meeting (AGM), which brought together our valued members for an evening of reflection, celebration, and exciting discussions about what’s to come. The event was a fantastic opportunity to highlight our achievements over the past year and to set the course for an exciting future ahead.
The meeting was held in a hybrid format, allowing members to attend both in person and virtually, ensuring greater accessibility and participation for all. It was wonderful to connect with so many of our members, whether in the room or online, as we continue to build a stronger community together.
The AGM was opened by the Mayor of Sutton, Cllr Colin Stears, who took the stage to deliver a keynote address, sharing his support for the credit union and its vital role in the community. Cllr Stears’ speech underscored the significance of CroydonPlus’ work in promoting financial inclusion and supporting local residents with ethical and accessible financial services.
During the meeting, CroydonPlus members were updated on the significant progress made over the past year. Highlights included the expansion of services across Croydon, Merton, and Sutton, and the success of key initiatives such as the Merton Young Saver program, which empowers young people to learn the importance of saving. Additionally, the results of our recent member survey were overwhelmingly positive, with members expressing high satisfaction with our services and a strong sense of trust in the credit union's commitment to ethical finance. These insights will continue to guide our efforts as we strive to better serve our community.
As the meeting came to a close, there was an overwhelming sense of optimism for what lies ahead. Members were energised by the progress made and excited for the next chapter of CroydonPlus’ journey. The AGM was not just a reflection of past successes but a reaffirmation of the credit union’s ongoing commitment to providing ethical financial services and supporting local communities.
"We are incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved so far," said Michael Wilson, CEO. "We are focused on continuing our growth, reaching more people, and expanding our services to better meet the needs of our members."
The success of the AGM marked a key milestone for CroydonPlus Credit Union, underscoring its role as a trusted and valued financial partner for the local community. With our strong foundation and clear vision for the future, the credit union is poised to continue empowering members, strengthening relationships, and making a lasting impact in Croydon, Merton, and Sutton.
The event was a reminder of the power of community, collaboration, and ethical finance, and we are excited to carry that momentum into the coming year!
18th December 2024
Engage Announces Transition to Suits Me Ltd
Engage has announced that it will cease trading and transfer all accounts to Suits Me Ltd. The transition, designed to ensure a seamless continuation of services, will take place by Monday 13th January 2025, although we know that number of our members have already been transferred.
Customers of Engage will receive detailed communications from Suits Me, if they haven't already, explaining the next steps in the transition process. Suits Me Ltd has assured us that it will handle all account transfers smoothly, ensuring that customers will not experience any disruptions in their services.
For any enquiries regarding this transition, Engage customers are encouraged to reach out to Suits Me Ltd directly at engageaccount@suitsmecard.com.
As the transition date approaches, Engage customers can rest assured that they will continue to receive the same level of service under the Suits Me brand, with further updates to be provided in the coming weeks.
19th August 2024 - GUEST BLOG POST - Victoria Copeland
Saving for your grandchildren. Investing in their future whilst making our life a little easier.
When my eldest granddaughter, Amy, was born in 2006, she received a £250 Child Trust Fund payment from the Government. This initiative, active from 2002 to 2011, aimed to provide children born during this period with a solid foundation and instil a savings mindset from an early age. Amy's mother opened a savings account for her, and as new grandparents, my husband and I decided to make regular monthly contributions to the account. Grandparents cannot open savings accounts for their grandchildren, this has to be done by a parent or legal guardian. Once the account is live it’s easy to set up a standing order and make a regular payment, this could be monthly, annually perhaps on a birthday or another frequency. Many child savings accounts lock the funds in until the child is either 16 or 18 and only they can access the funds making them secure and safe. We opted to contribute a modest £10.00 per month due to having school-age children at home and in anticipation of Amy not being our only grandchild for long. This was a wise move, as we now have six grandchildren, and we contribute towards each of their savings. We aim to increase the monthly contributions annually to keep up with inflation, which can be challenging. Presently, we contribute approximately £12.50 per grandchild per month. These regular payments add up to quite a bit of money each year, we generally don’t buy our grandchildren birthday or Christmas presents, we celebrate with them in different ways. They don’t mind and it saves us a lot of stress trying to work out what everyone might want and keeping it fair. Amy will be celebrating her 18th birthday in December. I’m pleased that all her birthdays will come at once from us! Her savings account has a very healthy balance and will give her a great start in adult life and however she chooses to spend it I’m delighted that her Grandad and I have been able to do this for her. I’m sure that most parents would like to open savings accounts for their children but that the current cost of living makes it difficult for many to deposit savings on a regular basis. Encouraging grandparents to get involved like we did can bring multiple benefits, encouraging a savings habit, ensuring a good start to adult life and it can take a lot of stress out of Christmas shopping.
25th June 2024
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of our Credit Union.
We are very proud to be reaching this milestone and we would like to thank each an every one of those people who we have worked with over the years.
'Working with CroydonPlus has allowed me to cultivate a deep sense of pride in our team's efforts to support our community financially.
Each interaction with our diverse membership brings unique experiences – it often brings a wide range of emotions, but can be incredibly rewarding! What remains consistent is the dedication shown to our members, the bonds we form, and our commitment to offering financial assistance.
CroydonPlus has been a pillar in our community for 25 years and this milestone wouldn't have been possible without the support from our community.
We are so thankful for all our members, volunteers, directors, staff, stakeholders, and everyone else who has played a part in our journey. Your contributions have brought us to where we are today!’
Michael Wilson | CEO
CroydonPlus Credit Union
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5th June 2024
Do you have a child born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011?
Yes? Have you checked on their Child Trust Fund?
There is currently £1.7bn sitting in unclaimed CTFs. Unfortunately, there have been a number of cases where young, often vulnerable people have been approached by unregulated firms who have offered to find these accounts for a flat fee of £350 or a percentage of the total fund.
To see if you (or your child) has a Child Trust Fund, just use the free and easy use service from HMRC here
Don't miss out on the opportunity to claim the fund - worth around £2,000 on average (T&Cs apply).
13th May 2024
Stop Loan Sharks have issued a Press Release detailing their latest conviction. Click below to read the article:
Stop Loan Sharks England say 'Illegal lending is still very much an issue and we would like to ensure that as many victims as possible, know that we can support them'
Anyone who believes they might be the victim of a loan shark can contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24-hour confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222, or complete an online report form at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
12th October 2023
Dear Members,
Merton Council has introduced an exciting new initiative to promote the importance of saving from a young age.
When they approached us to see if this is something we could facilitate, we knew we wanted to get involved as we are equally passionate about promoting savings amongst the younger members of our community!
Read the Press Release from Merton Council here:
19th December 2022
CroydonPlus Credit Union scoop national award for tackling loan sharks
Croydon Merton and Sutton Credit Union has won a national award in recognition of its efforts to raise awareness of the dangers of using loan sharks.
CroydonPlus Credit Union has been recognised by the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) for their initiatives tackling loan sharks in the county and making communities safer.
The IMLT investigates and prosecutes illegal money lenders while supporting those who have borrowed money from a loan shark.
CroydonPlus have been awarded Partner Recognition accreditation from the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT).
The new accreditation programme recognises and rewards partners that work alongside IMLT to raise awareness of loan sharks, and their impact on local communities, and to create safer spaces for people to live and work.
CroydonPlus raises awareness of campaign activities carried out to help tackle loan sharks.
Loan sharks are increasingly using social media platforms to advertise their illegal loans and target potential victims.
A recent campaign by IMLT, called #SharkFreeSurfing, ran across the Stop Loan Sharks and CroydonPlus social media platforms, with the aim of encouraging not just victims, but the wider community to report online illegal money lending activity.
Tony Quigley, Head of England Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “We would like to congratulate CroydonPlus on their partner recognition award and thank them for their outstanding efforts tackling loan sharks.
“We are extremely grateful for the support of our partners across the country and rely on them to act as our eyes and ears in communities. By working together, we can stamp out illegal money lending and protect residents from this awful crime.
“We continue to encourage people to come forward if they know of or have been a victim of loan sharks. You are not alone and we will support you.”
Anyone who believes they might be the victim of a loan shark can contact the Stop Loan Sharks 24-hour confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222, email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk or complete an online report form at www.stoploansharks.co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
24th January 2022 - BLOG POST
Volunteer to Employee
Hi, I’m Thiviya. I work as a Member Solutions Officer at Croydon Plus and wanted to share my journey so far. I joined as a recent economics graduate looking to utilise my background to help increase financial literacy and be part of something I could be proud of and Croydon Plus gave me the space to do that. I joined eager to learn about how credit unions work and see what I could do to help in my community. From day one I was able to learn about responsible lending, explore various services we have to offer and hear about the exciting plans for the credit union going forward. When I started as a volunteer I was quickly welcomed into the team and made to feel very comfortable. My colleagues answered any questions without hesitation, and I was able to ask what we do to help our members and how we do it. I soon felt comfortable offering our services where I could speak to our members, get to know their circumstances and discuss options that best suited their needs with the help of the team. It was often the case that my colleagues knew members individually from working here and built good relationships, which was a refreshing change and something that attracted me to work here initially. At the time, I was working elsewhere and was only able to commit a few hours a week, yet it turned out to be the more enjoyable job for me, so it was a no brainer that I wanted to join the team. After a few weeks of volunteering, I was presented with the opportunity to work as a full-time member solutions officer and was very excited to start. I was excited to help in all aspects of the credit union from welcoming new members, assisting with loan applications, discussing loan options and using my numerical background for running statistics. The management team have done a great job of finding work for me to do specific to my strengths and the skills I bring to the team. I take great pride and love the work that I do. I have since gotten to know some members by speaking to them and even met some of you! Being able put faces to the names I see on the screen is what makes working here so interesting. I am constantly being challenged with a range of tasks to do and find each day to be different from the next. I am hoping to be a part of some big changes here and bring new ideas to provide the best possible services. This has been a great experience so far and I am very excited to continue my journey at Croydon Plus and see what else I am able to showcase and experience here. I look forward to being a part of the growth and changes here and continue learning. If you are considering volunteering with us and are interested in learning about what credit unions do, then I would highly recommend that you do! There are a range of areas you could get involved in. I hope this has given you a brief insight into my time here so far, thank you for reading and I hope you all have a fantastic year ahead! #volunteer #croydon #sutton #merton #creditunion #creditunionscare #creditunionmovement Hi, I’m Thiviya. I work as a Member Solutions Officer at Croydon Plus and wanted to share my journey so far. I joined as a recent economics graduate looking to utilise my background to help increase financial literacy and be part of something I could be proud of and Croydon Plus gave me the space to do that. I joined eager to learn about how credit unions work and see what I could do to help in my community. From day one I was able to learn about responsible lending, explore various services we have to offer and hear about the exciting plans for the credit union going forward. When I started as a volunteer I was quickly welcomed into the team and made to feel very comfortable. My colleagues answered any questions without hesitation, and I was able to ask what we do to help our members and how we do it. I soon felt comfortable offering our services where I could speak to our members, get to know their circumstances and discuss options that best suited their needs with the help of the team. It was often the case that my colleagues knew members individually from working here and built good relationships, which was a refreshing change and something that attracted me to work here initially. At the time, I was working elsewhere and was only able to commit a few hours a week, yet it turned out to be the more enjoyable job for me, so it was a no brainer that I wanted to join the team. After a few weeks of volunteering, I was presented with the opportunity to work as a full-time member solutions officer and was very excited to start. I was excited to help in all aspects of the credit union from welcoming new members, assisting with loan applications, discussing loan options and using my numerical background for running statistics. The management team have done a great job of finding work for me to do specific to my strengths and the skills I bring to the team. I take great pride and love the work that I do. I have since gotten to know some members by speaking to them and even met some of you! Being able put faces to the names I see on the screen is what makes working here so interesting. I am constantly being challenged with a range of tasks to do and find each day to be different from the next. I am hoping to be a part of some big changes here and bring new ideas to provide the best possible services. This has been a great experience so far and I am very excited to continue my journey at Croydon Plus and see what else I am able to showcase and experience here. I look forward to being a part of the growth and changes here and continue learning. If you are considering volunteering with us and are interested in learning about what credit unions do, then I would highly recommend that you do! There are a range of areas you could get involved in. I hope this has given you a brief insight into my time here so far, thank you for reading and I hope you all have a fantastic year ahead! #volunteer #croydon #sutton #merton #creditunion #creditunionscare #creditunionmovement