Since the outbreak of the corona virus the credit union has taken a number of steps to ensure our members receive a full credit union service. We have now built a comprehensive online and telephone service. We operate a weekly face to face (appointment only) session and 2 information drop in points.

For the last 3 months we have conducted a random survey of the membership and can report, 96% of those surveyed, are happy with the current service and would like it to continue. Many members remarked it was quicker, easier and much more convenient than the outreach & collection service we offered before COVID.

With this in mind the board have taken the decision to motion at the next AGM meeting to continue delivering the service in this way. if you have any comments or questions please contact us before 11th may 2022 or come to the meeting in person and put your questions to the board – details of the AGM can be found on our website.

Please see below our outreaches and a brief outline of the service going forward.

THE HAGARD COMMUNITY CENTRE – FACE TO FACE INFORMATION DROP IN

MONDAY (1st Monday every month)

10.00am to 11.30am

BELL GREEN LIBRARY – FACE TO FACE INFORMATION DROP IN

TUESDAY (Weekly)

HOLBROOKS COMMUNITY CARE ASSOCIATION – FACE TO FACE APPOINTMENTS

WEDNESDAY (Weekly)

11.00am to 1.30am

PLEASE REMEMBER

Our staff will still be working remotely from home so apart from the times outlined above they will not be available for face to face contact.

Telephone access and email access will be available and payments or deposits can be made direct into our bank. We are able to offer our members a full service for withdrawals, loans, deposits and information

With your convenience in mind we have a new website where balances, transfers, share withdrawals and loan applications can all be processed in the comfort of your own home. Please telephone for details on how to register.

Telephone 024 76 998099 email coveastcu@googlemail.com

Website creditunioncoventry.com

Remember we value your membership and will do everything we can to keep your service as simple as possible

The idea is to have more money coming in then going out. Although this is a daily struggle, there’s small changes you can make to look after the pennies, so that the pounds look after themselves. 

Why do you need to budget?

You should always watch your money, even when you feel you’re earning enough to splurge however there may be an initial reason why you need to budget; you may have a big event coming up such as a wedding or a holiday, alternatively, you may have just lost your job and finding it hard to provide for your children. Whatever the reason, good or bad, remember, everything is temporary.  You can enjoy yourself without spending a huge amount, you just need to be careful.

Step One: Make a list

Sit down and understand exactly where your money is going. Start by writing out what necessities you have. Some of these will be: housing, phone fees, food, and transportation.  When you have written down your monthly outgoings, you can work out how much you have left over and ultimately save.

Step Two: Set goals

Do you want to save your money or just cut the cost? Whatever you need to do, set some goals to get to. These goals have to be realistic, don’t set a goal of saving more money then you make, when you could simply put away £5 every week. This can give you structure to your spending and allow you something to work towards.

Step Three: Use Visuals

With your goals set, you may feel overwhelmed by using cards. At this point you should take out a weekly amount for spending and stick to it.  Using mason jars to see how much you are saving and spending can show you how far away you are from your goals set.

Step Four: Cut Costs

Although there are plenty of luxuries you may use such as getting that new top you decided you deserved or even treating yourself to a cheeky night out on the town, do you REALLY need that gym membership you have used once in the last 2 years? Close that account and walk to work instead. Saves you a membership and petrol. 

Manage your expectations

You are going to cut down on costs, for sure. Ultimately, this will entail sacrifice. Remember that sacrifice is different from compromise. You can sacrifice eating out but cannot comprise your health by not eating or skipping meals.

You can turn the thermostat down but you cannot be cold and risk compromising your health.

Don’t become overwhelmed by budgeting, just be honest and look at your budget to see where any savings (if any) can be made.  For example,  walking instead or using expensive transport, cheaper supermarket brands instead of leading brands.

Seek help from agencies who are there to help you Welfare Rights Agencies, Credit Unions, Food Banks, Social Supermarkets & specialist agencies like MIND &  Age Concern

Make sure you are claiming all the money you are ENTITLED to. It’s your money – you just need to know how to get it.

Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help, there are a number of agencies who exist to help you, access them you are ENTITLED to.

Remember this financial crisis is hitting everyone.  You are not the only one,  many of us are struggling and need a little help at the moment.

If you need any help with signposting to agencies or telephone numbers do not hesitate to contact us 024 76 998099