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Mid and West Wales AM, Joyce Watson met members of the Haven Credit Union at a recent meeting, organised to discuss the ways in which the financial co-operative can help Pembrokeshire residents manage their money effectively.This week, the Assembly Government announced that credit union membership in Wales had risen above 50,000 for the first time –– it is believed that the rise is a response to the credit crunch.
Members of the Haven Credit Union Board told the visiting Assembly Member that as a community-led, non-profit making organisation, it is aiding people in Pembrokeshire by offering a locally-based means to save and borrow, which is managed by the Board in a responsible way.
Following the meeting, Mrs Watson showed her personal support by signing up as a member. She said:
"Credit unions are responsible and accessible providers of affordable savings and low-cost loans –– a much better alternative to the high-interest debts, door-step lenders and illegal loansharks that take advantage of borrowers. That's why it's very important we have organisations like Haven Credit Union here in Pembrokeshire."
James Roach-John, Chairman of the Haven Credit Union said he was delighted to welcome Mrs Watson as a new Member:
"It's fantastic that Joyce has joined us. And following the Christmas period, we are hoping that even more Pembrokeshire residents will see the benefits of being part of the Credit Union, and start to save with us for Christmas 2010. We may also be able to help some people manage their current debts, hopefully saving them some money."
Haven Credit Union is owned by its members. It is regulated by the Financial Services Authority and is a member of the Association of British Credit Unions Ltd (ABCUL)
To find out more about Haven Credit Union visit http://www.havencreditunion.org.uk/
Image: Joyce Watson AM and Haven Credit Union Chairman, James Roach-John, at the Milford Haven Office.
