Leeds Credit Union (LCU), a pioneer of community banking and financial inclusion, has won two prestigious awards at the Yorkshire Financial Awards 2024, it has announced. The credit union took home the coveted Outstanding Achievement Award and was also crowned Lender of the Year, cementing its position as a leader in ethical finance and community support in Yorkshire.
The Yorkshire Financial Awards celebrate the accomplishments of financial organisations that contribute not only to economic prosperity but also to community well-being across the region. Leeds Credit Union’s double win at this year’s awards ceremony, held on May 2nd at the Royal Armouries, highlights its commitment to providing accessible financial services and its pivotal role in fostering financial wellbeing and inclusion.
The Outstanding Achievement Award is a testament to LCU’s enduring dedication to its members and the broader community. As a pillar of ethical lending and financial education, the credit union has significantly impacted the lives of its members, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to achieve financial stability and prosperity. Through its innovative products and services – such as its Money & Budgeting Service, Bill Paying Account and Wakefield Outreach programme – the credit union has made a positive difference to people who struggle to access mainstream financial providers.
During the 2022/23 reporting period, the credit union welcomed 4,950 new members and carried out 965 Money & Budgeting service appointments across Leeds.
Winning the Lender of the Year award underscores Leeds Credit Union’s innovative approach to lending. By offering fair, transparent and supportive lending services, it has become a trusted ally to individuals and families across Yorkshire, helping them to meet their financial goals without the burden of high costs or insecurity.
During the financial year 2022/23, LCU lent more than £8.275m to its members, an increase of more than 10% on the previous year’s results. It also helped them save more than £11m in high interest repayments that would otherwise have ended up in the hands of unscrupulous lenders.
Reacting to the win, Mark Fleet, CEO of Leeds Credit Union, said:
“This is a tremendous honour for our team and a reflection of our collective passion for serving our community. These awards are a recognition of our tireless work and dedication to making a positive difference in our members’ lives. It motivates us to continue our mission of providing inclusive financial services and support and I am incredibly proud of our achievements and the invaluable support of our members and partners.”
With these awards, Leeds Credit Union is motivated to continue its journey of excellence, striving to innovate and expand its services to meet the evolving needs of its community. The credit union remains committed to its mission of empowering individuals through financial services that are both accessible and supportive.
For more information about Leeds Credit Union and its services, please visit: www.leedscreditunion.co.uk
This post is based on a press release issued on behalf of Leeds Credit Union
Photo (L-R): Mike Moore (Business Development Manager), Maya Friend (Business Relationship Manager) and Greg Potter (Head of Member Experience).
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