Leeds Credit Union wins two Yorkshire financial awards

Leeds Credit Union (LCU), a pioneer in 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 Finance Awards celebrate the achievements of financial organizations that contribute not only to economic prosperity but also to community wellbeing in the region. Leeds Credit Union’s double win at this year’s awards ceremony, which took place on 2 May at the Royal Armories, highlights its commitment to providing accessible financial services and its key role in promoting wellbeing and financial inclusion.

The Outstanding Achievement Award is a testament to LCU’s enduring dedication to its members and the wider community. As a pillar of ethical lending and financial education, the credit union has made a significant impact on the lives of its members, providing them with the tools and resources they need to achieve financial stability and prosperity. Through its innovative products and services – such as the Money & Budgeting Service, the Bill Payment Account and the Wakefield Outreach program – the credit union has made a positive difference to people who struggle to access mainstream financial providers.

In the 2022/2023 reporting period, the credit union welcomed 4,950 new members and made 965 Money & Budgeting appointments in Leeds.

Winning the Lender of the Year award highlights Leeds Credit Union’s innovative approach to lending. Providing fair, transparent and supportive lending services, it has become a trusted ally for individuals and families in Yorkshire, helping them achieve their financial goals without the burden of high costs or uncertainty.

During the 2022/23 financial year, LCU lent more than £8.275 million to its members, an increase of more than 10% on the previous year’s results. It also helped them save more than £11 million 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 honor for our team and a reflection of our collective passion to serve our community. These awards are a recognition of our tireless work and dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of our members. It motivates us to continue our mission to provide 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 people 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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