We are delighted to be working in partnership with London Plus Credit Union to help staff and residents build financial resilience.
Why London Plus Credit Union?
A credit union is a ‘not for profit’ financial institution. They exist to improve the financial wellbeing of their members and the community they serve.
Notting Hill Genesis works in partnership with London Plus as part of its financial inclusion agenda to support staff and residents to build financial resilience. This means all our residents or staff are eligible to join and take advantage of the services on offer.
We helped set up London Plus Credit Union back in 2008 to support our primary aim to provide decent and affordable homes for lower income households. Partnering with London Plus is about promoting choice and about building awareness of an alternative to some lenders who, especially at this time of crisis, thrive by preying on lower income households.
We want to promote an ethos of saving but also accept that especially young families may turn to credit to meet key costs throughout the year. We accept that this will not be relevant to our many residents who may have an excellent credit rating and can access everyday high street borrowing when needed.
London Plus can provide both savings and borrowing solutions and can work across our entire community to support staff and residents in an ethical and responsible way.
Case Study
Karina was forced to move home quickly due to some difficult circumstances, which included the ill health of her youngest son. It was done at short notice and was extremely stressful. With four children aged between two and 10, Karina moved into an unfurnished property with no beds. The family faced sleeping on the floor of their new home. In her desperation to sort out basic beds for her children, Karina believed her only option was to get a loan through a well-known doorstep lender. Fortunately, after sharing her concerns with her sister-in-law, she was introduced to London Plus Credit Union.
Amazingly Karina was able to source beds for all her children including a special cot and mattress for her young son for just £400 and was delighted when she was approved.
Karina says "My dream of moving my family into a new home came true but I didn’t have any savings to buy beds. I am so grateful to my sister-in-law for recommending London Plus Credit Union. I was able to use some of my child benefit to make repayments and made sure I set aside a little bit more into savings, to help me with other bits. I am looking at applying for another loan soon to treat myself to some much needed furniture. I would highly recommend London Plus, I'm extremely happy thank you."
What services do London Plus Credit Union offer?
Savings
Saving with London Plus is simple and easy using standing orders, diverted benefits, online card payments and payroll deductions.
Whether you wish to set aside a little each month or a pay lump sum, it can help protect you against a financial shock especially in these current uncertain times. The popular Christmas accounts are specially designed to help meet the cost of Christmas by locking access until November.
You also have the additional added security of knowing all your savings are fully protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
Loans
London Plus offer a wide range of loans to suit all pockets, to help with seasonal essentials, unexpected surprises or planned luxuries. They aim to make quick decisions and their loans are easy to apply for online.
You can borrow with confidence knowing it’s safe, trustworthy, and flexible, with no hidden set-up fees.
Online Banking, Mobile App and Debit Card
Stay in control of your finances at a time that suits you with online banking and a mobile app. This allows you to manage your money at a time that suits you.
They also have a cost effective integrated debit card designed for members who struggle to get a high street bank account. Pay for goods and services in store or online that will be debited directly to your credit union account.
Special Offer for NHG residents
We understand that the pandemic and increased costs of living have placed an enormous strain on household finances and it has never been more important to make the right choices when it comes to borrowing or setting aside a little bit of savings.
We have two special offers available to residents and staff that can help support you during times of financial struggle. You can find more information on these loans here, or have a look at the London Plus Credit Union website.
You can also contact your housing officer if you need any financial support, or have a look at our support services database.