Looking for a loan? Apply here!
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Tag Archive: Leeds

  1. Building Financial Inclusion in Leeds: Turning the 17% into a Shared Opportunity.

    Comments Off on Building Financial Inclusion in Leeds: Turning the 17% into a Shared Opportunity.

    Building Financial Inclusion in Leeds: Turning the 17% into a Shared Opportunity.

    Recent research shows that 17% of neighbourhoods in Leeds are among the most deprived in the UK, placing our city 51st out of 296 local authorities for deprivation. As CEO of Leeds Credit Union, this statistic is deeply concerning. Behind those numbers are households struggling to make ends meet, families worried about debt, and people who feel locked out of fair financial services.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we believe financial inclusion is one of the most powerful tools to break this cycle.

    Understanding the challenge.

    Deprivation is not only about income levels. It is about access and opportunity. In too many parts of Leeds, residents face barriers to affordable credit, a lack of access to financial advice, and limited confidence in managing their money.

    We see this every day: people relying on high-cost lenders, families living without savings, and young people entering adulthood without the financial knowledge they need. Financial exclusion can deepen deprivation, limiting choices and reducing resilience when life gets tough.

    What Leeds Credit Union is doing to help.

    As a community-based credit union, our mission has always been to make financial wellbeing possible for everyone in Leeds, regardless of postcode or income.

    We are taking action in three key areas:

    1. Expanding access to fair and affordable financial services.

       We continue to provide safe, ethical alternatives to high-cost credit, helping people borrow responsibly and build financial stability. We are increasing our presence in communities most affected by deprivation to ensure that fair finance is available where it is needed most.

    2. Building financial confidence through education.

       Financial literacy is essential to long-term wellbeing. We are working with local schools, employers, and community groups to deliver workshops, digital tools, and one-to-one support that help people budget, save, and plan for the future.

       Our goal is to make financial understanding a life skill, not a privilege.

    3. Supporting financial wellbeing as part of community health.

       Money worries are one of the biggest causes of stress and poor mental health. We are partnering with local organisations and health services to integrate financial wellbeing into broader support networks, because feeling secure with your money supports every other part of life.

    A collective effort.

    Financial inclusion is not something one organisation can solve alone. We are calling on local employers, schools, charities, and civic leaders to work with us to make Leeds a financially healthy city where everyone has the opportunity, knowledge, and confidence to manage their money and build their future.

    Leeds is a city with ambition, talent, and heart. But until financial exclusion is addressed, too many people will remain on the margins of that success. Together, we can change that.

    Let’s turn that 17% from a statistic into a starting point for action.

    Thank you.

    James Brown, CEO, Leeds Credit Union.

  2. Wakefield’s Best Half-term and Halloween Activities!

    Comments Off on Wakefield’s Best Half-term and Halloween Activities!

    Wakefield’s Best Half-term and Halloween Activities!

    With the half-term holidays and Halloween both taking place next week, parents of school-age children may be scratching their heads trying to think of ways to entertain their little ones without breaking the bank.

    Luckily, Wakefield and the surrounding area is full of excellent attractions and family-friendly Halloween events, so we’ve picked out some of the best for your consideration. Read on to find out more!

    Pugneys Light Railway Halloween Spooktacular.

    On Friday 31st October and Saturday 1st November, Pugneys Light Railway is transforming into a haunted haven of thrills, chills and ghostly giggles, with train rides through the spooky nearby woods taking place! 

    Suitable for all ages, even the trains might scream!

    http://bit.ly/3JrxJSL

    Farmer Copley’s Pumpkin Festival.

    If you’re after some pumpkin picking family fun, head over to Farmer Copley’s – where more than 250,000 pumpkins across 40 varieties await!

    Enjoy tractor rides, live shows, archery, stories, the magical Mr Zen, Velcro the Scarecrow, fancy dress competitions with prizes and more!

    https://farmercopleys.co.uk/events/pumpkin-festival/

    Wakefield Exchange.

    Head over to the Wakefield Exchange (WX) events venue this half-term for its annual Halloween playground, a week of fun activities for all ages – some of which are absolutely free!

    From craft workshops and lively parties, to graveyard scenes, crazy golf, spooky discos, face painting and live music, there’s something for everyone!

    https://www.wxwakefield.co.uk/Whats-On/Details?event=halloween-at-wx

    However you choose to spend this half-term and Halloween, we hope you have a great time! And if you need an affordable small loan to help make your money go further, you can apply to borrow as little as £250 here!

  3. Leeds’ Best Half-term and Halloween Activities!

    Comments Off on Leeds’ Best Half-term and Halloween Activities!

    Leeds’ Best Half-term and Halloween Activities!

    With the half-term holidays and Halloween both taking place next week, parents of school-age children may be scratching their heads trying to think of ways to entertain their little ones without breaking the bank.

    Luckily, Leeds and the surrounding area is full of excellent attractions and family-friendly Halloween events, so we’ve picked out some of the best for your consideration. Read on to find out more!

    Stockeld Park.

    A Grade-I listed country house and estate situated between Wetherby and Harrogate and spanning around 2,000 acres, Stokeld Park is a great place to visit all year round.

    From the 25th October until 2nd of November, however, it’s absolutely unmissable, as its half-term and Halloween activities come to the fore, with something for guests of all ages, from the Woodland Witches forest trail, to the Monster Maze or the incredible Laser Zombie Experience!

    And for those that love to dress up, there are also daily prizes for the best Halloween outfit! 

    https://booking.stockeldpark.co.uk/book/the-halloween-adventure/1942

    Swithens Farm Pumpkin Festival. 

    If you like your pumpkin picking with a side of cute farm animals, then Swithens Farm is the place for you!

    Throughout half term, you’ll be able to enjoy their famous Pumpkin Festival, which boasts tractor rides, mysterious woodland trails, furry friends like donkeys, piglets and meerkats, and lots more besides!

    https://www.swithensfarm.co.uk/events/pumpkin-festival-by-day/

    Grasshoppers Spooktacular Playtime Party. 

    One designed especially for your littlest monsters (it’s suitable for ages 3 and over), this soft play session at the popular Grasshoppers in both Tong and Tingley will be packed with ghoulish games, creepy crafts and a fancy dress competition that your little ones will love.

    Taking place on Friday 31st October 2025 from 2:30pm, follow the link below to book tickets in advance.

    https://grasshoppersplay.co.uk/

    Thackray Museum: Freaky Phobias. 

    From Saturday 25th to Friday 31st October, the Thackray Museum of Medicine in Harehills is hosting a series of Freaky Phobias events, where visitors can find out about phobias and how they work.

    Featuring live science shows, story times and more, this is a great opportunity for curious kids and those that just love to learn to understand once and for all why so many of us get creeped out by clowns or scared of spiders!

    https://thackraymuseum.co.uk/event/freaky-phobias/

    Scarytales at Lotherton Hall. 

    Head over to Lotherton Hall and its magnificent grounds this half-term for Scarytales, a spooky set of reimagined classic fairytales!

    You’ll also be able to explore Lotherton’s rooms and gardens, where you never know what you might bump into…

    https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/whats-on/spooky-skeletons-scarytales-c461

    However you choose to spend this half-term and Halloween, we hope you have a great time! And if you need an affordable small loan to help make your money go further, you can apply to borrow as little as £250 here!

  4. LCU – Making Christmas More Affordable.

    Comments Off on LCU – Making Christmas More Affordable.

    LCU – Making Christmas More Affordable.

    LCU is delighted to announce that we’ve launched an incredible £20million campaign to keep Christmas more affordable for our members!

    To help families make their money go further this festive season, we’re offering affordable and flexible loans ranging from £250 to £25,000, available from now until Christmas and serving as a much safer, more reliable and cost-effective option than turning to costly doorstep lenders or even dangerous loan sharks. 

    This year’s campaign builds on the success of previous Christmas initiatives and follows fresh feedback from our members, many of whom said they are facing significant financial pressures amid rising living costs. As a result, members can also tailor their Christmas Loan repayment plans to suit their circumstances.

    James Brown, our CEO, said: “Every year, our members tell us that Christmas brings added financial pressure, and this year those pressures are sharper than ever.

    “By turning to Leeds Credit Union for support, our members collectively save around £20 million compared to what they might otherwise pay in high-interest loans. As a not-for-profit organisation, every pound we save or earn goes back into supporting our members and the wider community.

    “Affordable credit doesn’t just prevent debt, it provides dignity, stability, and peace of mind at a crucial time of year.”

    Applications for the Christmas Loan are open now via the link below or at local branches across the region!

    https://leedscreditunion.co.uk/loans/

  5. International Credit Union Day 2025.

    Comments Off on International Credit Union Day 2025.

    International Credit Union Day 2025.

    International Credit Union Day takes place next week – on October 16th – and we’re looking forward to joining in with the global celebrations! This special day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the rich history of credit unions, their purpose and the many benefits of being a member of Leeds Credit Union.

    A Brief History of Credit Unions.

    Credit unions have a long and storied history that dates back to the 19th century. The first modern credit union was established in Germany in 1852 by Hermann Schulze-Delitzsch and Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen, who were pioneers of cooperative banking. These visionary leaders sought to provide affordable financial services to those underserved by traditional banking institutions. The movement quickly spread globally, reaching our shores and paving the way for the formation of LCU.

    The Purpose of Credit Unions.

    At their core, credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives owned and operated by their members. Our mission is to promote financial well-being by:

    1. Providing Access to Affordable Financial Services: We offer a range of products and services, from savings accounts to loans, designed to meet your needs.
    2. Fostering Community Development: We are committed to supporting our local communities and helping to build a strong, financially resilient society.
    3. Encouraging Financial Education: We provide resources and educational programmes to help you make informed financial decisions.

    Benefits of Being a Member of Leeds Credit Union.

    When you become an LCU member, you are not just a customer but an owner of a financial institution that prioritises your needs. Here are some of the unique benefits you can enjoy:

    • Competitive Rates and Low Fees: We strive to offer competitive rates on loans and savings, ensuring you get the best value.
    • Personalised Service: As a member, you receive attentive, personalised service from a team that genuinely cares about your financial well-being.
    • Community Engagement: We actively participate in community initiatives, supporting local causes and fostering a spirit of cooperation and mutual aid.
    • Financial Education: Access to online resources to help you manage your finances effectively.

    As we prepare to celebrate International Credit Union Day, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for our members’ continued support and trust. Together, we are not just building better financial futures for ourselves but also strengthening our community.

    If you’re interested in becoming our newest member, you can find more details or start your application here!

  6. Budgeting Tips For Christmas 2025.

    Comments Off on Budgeting Tips For Christmas 2025.

    Budgeting Tips For Christmas 2025.

    It may only be October but Christmas is on its way and it’s clear that, for many families, finding extra money to pay for this year’s festivities is going to be easier said than done.

    The good news is that, with a little financial planning, you can make your money stretch further than you think. Here are our top Christmas budgeting tips!

    1. Be realistic about what you can afford.

    Christmas is only one day and it’s not worth getting into debt for, so don’t try and throw your family a dream Christmas with all the trimmings – stick to what you can afford.

    This budget planner from MoneySavingExpert has lots of good ideas on managing your money.

    1. Make sacrifices.

    They don’t have to be significant but, as the saying goes, every little helps. For example, if you stop buying a £2.50 coffee every morning before work over the coming weeks, you could save approximately £100 and add it to the Xmas fund instead.

    1. Start shopping asap.

    Ongoing supply chain issues are likely to see prices rise and availability fall in the runup to Christmas, so keep your ‘people to buy for’ list handy and if you see something suitable at a discounted price, buy it now. 

    1. Don’t be a snob.

    Don’t get the most expensive turkey, stuffing and gravy you can find, shop around for cheaper alternatives. Higher brand goods don’t necessarily mean better quality and once they’re on the table, nobody’s likely to ask where they came from anyway. The same goes for accessories like crackers and wrapping paper. 

    1. Only buy presents for immediate family.

    Handing out presents to everyone you know is all well and good but, if money’s tight, remember you’re not obliged to buy anyone anything.

    If you’re determined to buy gifts for colleagues, friends and extended family members as well as your nearest and dearest, why not agree to a £5 or £10 cap on presents?

    1. Get creative.

    Instead of buying presents this year, why not make them? This list of Xmas gifts you can make yourself has an abundance of great, affordable ideas anyone would be delighted to receive on December 25th.

    1. Shop around.

    There are plenty of bargains to be had if you know where to look so keep an eye on ebay and Facebook Marketplace. If you’re shopping in person, have a look in your local charity shop and always remember to compare highstreet prices v online prices before making a purchase.

    1. Sell to buy.

    Most of us have at least a few items we could live without so, if you’ve got anything you haven’t used for a while, why not sell it and put the profits towards Christmas?

    1. Keep an eye on Black Friday deals.

    Black Friday used to refer to the sales that took place on the Friday after Thanksgiving in America. Now Black Friday lasts for weeks and, thanks to online shopping, is available all over the world!

    This year’s event officially begins on Friday, November 28th, but keep an eye on your favourite shops, their websites and Amazon in particular for information about pre-sale offers.

    1. Plan your journeys now.

    If you’re going to be using trains to get around over the festive period, book your tickets asap – discounted tickets usually go on sale around 10 weeks before the date of travel and sell out fast. 

    Find out how Leeds Credit Union can help you.

    Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean Christmas is cancelled. With small loans of £250 available to our members, joining our credit union could help make your Christmas one to remember – find out how to join here.

  7. Leeds’ Best Curry Houses: National Curry Week 2025.

    Comments Off on Leeds’ Best Curry Houses: National Curry Week 2025.

    Leeds’ Best Curry Houses: National Curry Week 2025.

    We love curries in the UK – they’re second to naan – so it’s only right that National Curry Week has become one of the nation’s most beloved weeks.

    Taking place from October 6th – 12th and now entering its 27th year, National Curry Week was originally designed to celebrate and support Indian restaurants and raise money for charity, with curry lovers encouraged to visit a participating curry house, buy the National Curry Week recipe book or host a curry night and donate contributions from their guests to the cause.

    To celebrate this delicious event, we’ve compiled a list of the finest curry houses in Leeds that we think are worthy of a visit over the next week; tikka look at the top five below!

    Bengal Brasserie.

    With three restaurants in Leeds and two more elsewhere in Yorkshire, the people behind Bengal Brasserie (BB) obviously know a thing or two about excellent curries.

    Ranked among the best restaurants in the city by TripAdvisor reviewers, BB is famous for its fabulously prepared favourites, such as jalfrezi, tandoori chicken and vegetable biryani. Add in excellent customer service and an authentic Indian atmosphere and you’re onto a winner. Check out the menu and book a table here.

    The Bengal Brasserie, 5 Merrion Way, Leeds. LS2 8BT.

    Mumtaz.

    Arguably the trendiest curry house in Leeds, classic Kashmiri dishes are the order of the day at Mumtaz.

    With jaw-droppingly high ceilings and stunning views of Leeds Dock, not for no reason was Mumtaz dubbed ‘the most Instagrammable restaurant in Leeds’. But there’s no shortage of substance to go with the restaurant’s style – the extensive menu has something for everyone, including curry house staples like rogan-joshs and kormas, Kashmiri takes on classic Italian dishes and an extremely generous selection of desserts. Find out more information here.

    Mumtaz Leeds, 1 & 2 MacKenzie House, Chadwick St, Leeds. LS10 1PJ.

    Tharavadu.

    Tharavadu is the only Indian restaurant in Leeds to feature in the Michelin-recommended guide but don’t worry, there are no overpriced, bite-sized dishes here.

    Instead, the restaurant offers a selection of Keralan specialities. While this means you won’t find the likes of chicken korma on the menu, you will find the Marari Prawn Masala, an exquisite and creamy blend of garlic and seafood, in addition to a range of top quality street food and dosas which are among the best you’ll find anywhere in the country. To make a booking or peruse the menu, head to http://www.tharavadurestaurants.com/

    Tharavadu, 7-8 Mill Hill, Leeds. LS1 5DQ.

    Bundobust.

    A favourite among locals, Bundobust is a simply outstanding combination of authentic Indian street food and delicious craft beers.

    “But isn’t it all vegetarian?” we hear you cry. The short answer is yes, you won’t find any meat here. But only a fool would let that put them off because we guarantee that even the most dedicated carnivore won’t even notice. From salty Okra fries to spiced lentil curries and barbecued paneer cheese skewers, Bundobust’s tapas style menu is best enjoyed with friends – you can order every item on the menu, which feeds six people, for just £78! Check out all its food and drink options here.

    Bundobust, 6 Mill Hill, Leeds, West Yorkshire. LS1 5DQ.

    Rola Wala

    One of Trinity Kitchen’s most popular restaurants, Rola Wala takes Indian street food and turns it on its head.

    With a staggering number of dishes to choose between, including rice bowls packed with 47 ingredients, the delicious Goan Pulled Pork and vegetarian-friendly options such as Keralan Cauliflower, Rola Wala demands repeat visits just to find out if all the dishes taste as good as they look (trust us, they do). Throw in the fact that all the spices are supplied new every week for maximum freshness and flavour and you’ve got a strong contender for Leeds’ best restaurant. See everything it has to offer at https://rolawala.com/food/

    Rola Wala, Trinity Kitchen, Trinity Leeds, Albion Street, Leeds. LS1 5AY.

    Which Is Your Favourite?

    No two curry houses are the same, especially in Leeds, which has so many to choose from. So while these restaurants are some of our personal favourites, there are plenty more to try this National Curry Week. If you have any recommendations for us, let us know on our social media channels!

  8. UK Savings Week 2025.

    Comments Off on UK Savings Week 2025.

    UK Savings Week 2025.

    Because life is unpredictable, it’s important to have some savings put aside that you can fall back on if something unexpected happens, like losing your job, becoming unwell or suddenly receiving a bill for which you hadn’t already budgeted.

    Having the financial safety net that savings provide can be hugely reassuring in these instances, especially when you consider that, according to recent UK savings statistics:

    • 34% of adults had either no savings or less than £1,000 in a savings account
    • 65% of people believe they wouldn’t be able to last three months without borrowing money, and
    • savings accounts are the most popular savings method among UK adults, with over half (57%) using these to save money. 

    Taking place between 22nd-28th September, UK Savings Week is designed to promote the benefits of saving and encourage people to focus on their saving habits, whether they are regular savers, infrequent savers or currently unable to save.

    Originally launched in 2022, the UK Savings Week initiative works by bringing together organisations that want to improve people’s – especially their own employees’ – financial resilience by helping them save for the future by providing them with access to advice about saving money.

    If you’re interested in saving money and better managing your finances, here are some helpful hints and tips.

    Making your savings work for you.

    • Shop around for the best savings account. A significant proportion of UK savers hold most of their savings in a current account, where interest rates are usually low. Shopping around can make a big difference to your returns.
    • Specialist accounts like our Young Saver account, which enables children and young people to start developing healthy savings habits from a young age, are also available and are worth considering.
    • Our Christmas Club accounts, meanwhile, make saving for winter expenses – like Christmas – much easier by allowing you to save throughout the year but only allowing you access to your savings between November 1st and December 24th, so you won’t be tempted to spend it earlier!
    • ‘No spend’ weekends. By committing to spending exactly £0.00 one weekend every other month, you could give your savings a real shot in the arm. 
    • Go for walks, have a movie night, play board games, visit some free museums and use up any food leftover from earlier in the week.
    • Check your tax code. If it’s wrong, you could pay too much tax and leave yourself out of pocket while you wait for a refund; if you pay too little, you’ll get an unpleasant bill later on.
    • If you’re able to, overpay on your monthly mortgage payment. By paying more than you have to each month, you can reduce your mortgage term and save a significant amount in interest. Always check for early-repayment charges, though!
    • Before making a purchase when shopping online, check to see if cashback is available – lots of cashback sites are easy to find so do a little research before clicking ‘buy now’. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a code for a discount on your chosen item.
    • Prioritise paying off your debts. While this won’t be possible for everyone, using your savings to pay off any debts is a great idea as it means you won’t accrue any more interest on what you already owe, ensuring you’ll be better off in the long run.

    Where can I get help?

    Contact a trustworthy financial institution, such as your local credit union, for help and advice on improving your financial circumstances.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we offer a Money And Budgeting Service (MABS) to help members create realistic budgets to ensure their bills are paid on time, stop them from falling into arrears and make the most of their income. 

    We also provide an employee payroll scheme which allows members who work for certain employers to save through their pay, with deductions going straight into their savings account from their salary or wage, meaning they don’t even miss it.

    And if you need a hand working out your debts, ensuring you’re received all your eligible benefits or are on track to meet your savings goals, our handy calculators are here to help! To give them a try, just visit: https://leedscreditunion.co.uk/lcyou/

    Get saving with Leeds Credit Union!

    At LCU, we offer a wide range of savings accounts designed to keep your money safe and secure, with regular dividends paid out to qualifying members.

    To find out more, click here.

  9. The Benefits of Payroll Saving and Loans.

    Comments Off on The Benefits of Payroll Saving and Loans.

    The Benefits of Payroll Saving and Loans.

    With Happiness at Work Week taking place soon, it’s important to recognise that employees’ financial well-being plays a pivotal role in their overall happiness and job satisfaction.

    Financial stress is a significant source of anxiety for many individuals. According to surveys, it ranks as one of the top causes of stress for employees. When employees are preoccupied with their financial struggles, it can negatively affect their performance and engagement at work, so we’re taking a look at the ways in which payroll saving and loans can help alleviate these concerns:

    Financial stability through payroll saving.

    One of the most effective ways to enhance financial wellbeing is by encouraging employees to save a portion of their income regularly. Payroll saving allows employees to automate their savings, ensuring that they consistently set money aside for emergencies, retirement or other financial goals.

    By partnering with a credit union like ours, employers can facilitate this process, making it easy for employees to allocate a portion of their salary to a savings account. This financial stability can reduce the stress associated with unexpected expenses, giving employees peace of mind and allowing them to focus better on their job responsibilities.

    Access to responsible loans.

    Life is full of unexpected challenges, and sometimes employees may require financial assistance to overcome them. In such cases, offering access to responsible loans can be a game-changer.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we provide employees with the opportunity to access loans with competitive interest rates, flexible repayment terms and responsible lending practices.

    When employees know they have a reliable source of affordable credit, they are less likely to turn to high-interest payday loans or accumulate debt on high-interest credit cards. This peace of mind can help them stay focused on their work and maintain a higher level of job satisfaction.

    Improved financial literacy.

    In addition to providing financial products, many credit unions also offer financial education resources. By offering workshops, webinars or one-on-one consultations, employees can enhance their financial literacy and make more informed decisions about their money.

    When employees have a better understanding of their finances, they are more likely to manage their money wisely, reduce debt and achieve their financial goals. This, in turn, can lead to reduced stress, increased job satisfaction and higher levels of engagement at work.

    Leeds Credit Union – we’re here to help.

    Before, during and after Happiness at Work Week, let’s remember that a happy and engaged workforce is a productive one. By addressing employees’ financial wellbeing through payroll saving and loans, employers can create an environment where employees feel more secure, less stressed and better equipped to perform at their best.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we are committed to helping both individuals and businesses in Leeds and the surrounding areas improve their financial wellbeing. By partnering with us, employers can take a significant step towards enhancing their employees’ performance, engagement and overall happiness at work.

    If you’re interested in exploring how payroll saving and loans can benefit your employees and organisation, click here.

  10. Second-Hand September 2025.

    Comments Off on Second-Hand September 2025.

    Second-Hand September 2025.

    Did you know that September is officially Second-Hand September, an event created by Oxfam, the UK’s premier anti-poverty charity, that challenges people to only buy pre-owned clothing for a month?

    With prices still rising across many areas of day-to-day life, looking for a bargain wherever possible makes more sense than ever. Luckily, the rise in popularity of second-hand shopping has resulted in more second-hand outlets for shoppers to browse, increasing your chances of finding a hidden gem.

    If you’re ready to get shopping, check out our list of the best places to pick up second-hand clothing this September!

    Charity shops.

    Shopping in charity shops is a great way to find a new outfit at a reduced price while also supporting a worthy cause at the same time. From vintage items that have come back into fashion to designer gear its previous owner has grown tired of wearing, good old-fashioned charity shops rarely let us down, so where better to start?

    The key to shopping in physical second-hand shops (as opposed to online) is to take your time. As a general rule, the more disorganised the shop, the better your chances of finding a bargain – so long as you give yourself enough time to sift through everything to find it.

    Another useful tip is to take your measurements before you leave home and take a tape measure with you. This way, you can measure any ‘new’ garments that catch your eye to find out if they will fit without needing to spend time in the changing rooms, freeing up more time to browse.

    Kilo sales.

    By using the weight of the clothing to measure the cost of the purchase, kilo sales are a great way to find unique, affordable pieces that would otherwise be taken to landfill. And regardless of the brand, the price stays the same!

    With a wide variety of clothing and no price tags involved, kilo sales can be the perfect place to find high-quality clothes at an amazing price. Often found at pop-up events advertised on social media, kilo sales typically use large rooms to set up hundreds of clothing items on rails, enabling you to find the items you like and pay based on their weight.

    To keep costs down even lower, try to stick to lighter items – although smaller things like tshirts can often be cheaper than in charity shops, heavy denim and leather may not be as cost-effective.

    Clothes swaps.

    If you have a wardrobe full of clothes you’ve fallen out of love with, why not consider swapping them for some new items? 

    By searching social media for a local swap group, you may be lucky enough to find one nearby that arranges to meet in person for swapping. If not, there are larger groups which post swaps out – all you have to do is find something you like and offer the owner something of yours in exchange. When you’re both happy with the deal, simply pop the item/s in the post… and that’s it!

    Online shopping.

    If you love the convenience of online shopping, apps like Vinted and Depop, which allow you to create an account to sell your old clothes, then use the money you make to buy others, may be the answer. With a wide range of search filters, plus recommendations, this is an easy way to find exactly what you’re after.

    One word of caution, though – individuals choose the prices their clothes are listed for, so beware inflated price tags. Do some research to make sure you’re paying a reasonable price before purchasing.

    Leeds Credit Union – Here to Help.

    We’re big fans of the Second-Hand September initiative as it’s a simple and fun way to save money at a time when many households are having their finances stretched like never before. If you want to take part in Oxfam’s second-hand challenge, click here.

    If you need an affordable loan to help your finances go a little further, you can have a look at our range of loans here.