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Tag Archive: #moneyhelp

  1. Cost-effective, Last-Minute Christmas Gifts!

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    Cost-effective, Last-Minute Christmas Gifts!

    The hustle and bustle of the festive season can often lead to a last-minute scramble for the ideal Christmas present. But fear not, LCU is here with suggestions for thoughtful last-minute gift ideas that your family will love and that won’t break the bank! 

    Local Artisan Crafts.

    Support local businesses by choosing handmade, local crafts or artisanal products as unique gifts. Etsy is a great place to find local, small businesses and one-of-a-kind creations that make thoughtful presents and help your local community thrive.

    Gift Cards with a Twist.

    Pick up a gift card for local businesses or cafes your loved one enjoys. This will allow them to choose their gift while supporting small businesses in our community. 

    Digital Gifts.

    In this digital age, consider gifting e-books, music subscriptions, or online courses that align with things your friends and family enjoy. It’s convenient and shows them that you care! 

    Personalised Experiences.

    Create lasting memories by gifting experiences such as a virtual cooking class or a day out exploring local attractions. These experiences are sure to be cherished long after Christmas is over!

    The Gift of Financial Wellness.

    Consider the gift of financial security by introducing your loved ones to the benefits of saving with Leeds Credit Union. Contributing to their savings account can help them start the new year on the right financial footing. 

    Remember, Christmas isn’t about how much you spend; the best gifts come from the heart and reflect how much you care for those closest to you. 

    This year, as we approach the season of giving, let’s prioritise meaningful gestures over high ticket prices. From all of us at Leeds Credit Union, may your Christmas be filled with joy!

  2. Our Top Five Money-Saving Offers This Black Friday!

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    Our Top Five Money-Saving Offers This Black Friday!

    Black Friday is just around the corner, so now is the perfect time to snag some incredible deals and save big. To help you make the most of this shopping extravaganza, we’ve compiled a list of five money-saving offers you won’t want to miss this Black Friday.

    1. Electronics.

    Upgrade your gadgets and tech gear with big discounts on electronics this Black Friday. From TVs to smartphones, laptops to smart home devices, retailers across the UK are offering significant tech discounts – like this Blink Outdoor Smart Security Camera, now 60% off!

    2. Fashion and Apparel Sales.

    With sites like ASOS offering up to 70% off, you can revamp your wardrobe for less this Black Friday with fantastic deals on fashion and apparel. Many popular clothing brands and retailers are slashing prices on everything from cosy winter essentials to stylish party wear.

    3. Home and Kitchen Essentials.

    Upgrade your living space without breaking the bank by taking advantage of Black Friday deals on home and kitchen essentials. Whether you need new furniture, kitchen gadgets or home decor items, you’ll find great discounts on a wide range of products – like this MisterChef Pro Standing Mixer.

    4. Beauty and Wellness Products.

    Treat yourself to some self-care this Black Friday with discounts on beauty and wellness products. This No7 The Skincare Discovery Collection 5 Piece Gift Set is the perfect gift for anyone looking to refresh their skincare routine!

    5. Travel and Experiences.

    Plan your next adventure at a fraction of the cost with Black Friday discounts on travel and experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway, a luxury spa retreat or some thrilling outdoor activities, many travel companies are offering unbeatable deals that will make your travel aspirations a reality.

    This Black Friday, make the most of these money-saving offers to stretch your budget further and enjoy incredible savings on a variety of products and experiences. Remember to shop wisely, compare prices and consider your purchases carefully to make the most of this shopping event!

    Stay tuned for more savings tips and financial insights from Leeds Credit Union in the run-up to Christmas!

  3. Talk Money Week: Tips for Financial Responsibility to Improve Your Financial Wellbeing.

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    Talk Money Week: Tips for Financial Responsibility to Improve Your Financial Wellbeing.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we believe that talking openly about money is a critical step towards financial wellbeing. Taking place this week, Talk Money Week is the perfect opportunity to start those vital conversations that can lead to better financial responsibility and stability. Here are some practical tips to help you take control of your finances and improve your overall financial health:

    1. Create a Budget

    One of the most fundamental steps to financial responsibility is creating a budget. A budget helps you understand where your money goes and ensures you live within your means.

    Tips for creating a budget:

    • Track your income and expenses.
    • Categorise your spending (e.g., housing, transportation, groceries).
    • Identify areas where you can cut back.
    • Allocate funds for savings and emergencies.

    If you could do with a hand creating your budget, check out our budget calculator

    2. Build an Emergency Fund

    Unexpected expenses can derail your financial plans. An emergency fund is a financial safety net you can rely on during unforeseen circumstances.

    How to build an emergency fund:

    • Aim to save at least three to six months’ of living expenses.
    • Start small and gradually increase your savings.
    • Keep your emergency fund in a separate, easily accessible savings account.

    3. Manage Debt Wisely

    Debt can be a significant burden on your financial wellbeing. It’s essential to manage it wisely and take steps to reduce it over time.

    Strategies for managing debt:

    • Make a list of all your debts and their interest rates.
    • Prioritise paying off high-interest debts first.
    • Consider consolidating your debts if it lowers your interest rates and simplifies payments.
    • Avoid taking on new debt whenever possible.

    4. Save for the Future

    Saving for the future is a crucial aspect of financial responsibility. Whether for retirement, education or a major purchase, having a savings plan can provide financial security and peace of mind.

    Saving tips:

    • Set specific financial goals (e.g, save £5,000 for a down payment on a house).
    • Automate your savings by setting up a direct deposit to your savings account.
    • Take advantage of employer-sponsored retirement plans and other savings incentives.

    5. Improve Financial Literacy

    Understanding personal finance concepts can significantly affect your financial decisions and wellbeing. Take the time to educate yourself about financial matters.

    Resources for improving financial literacy:

    • Attend financial literacy workshops or seminars.
    • Read books and articles on personal finance.
    • Use online resources and tools, such as budgeting apps and financial calculators.
    • Talk to a financial advisor for personalised advice.

    6. Talk About Money

    Talking openly about money can de-stigmatize financial discussions and provide you with new perspectives and ideas.

    Ways to talk about money:

    • Have regular financial discussions with your family or partner.
    • Join a financial support group or community.
    • Seek advice from trusted friends or mentors.
    • Feel free to ask for help if you’re struggling with your finances.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we’re here to support you on your journey to financial wellbeing. By taking these steps towards financial responsibility, you can build a secure and prosperous future for yourself and your loved ones.

    To find out more about our products and services, visit: https://leedscreditunion.co.uk/

  4. Celebrating International Credit Union Day!

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    Celebrating International Credit Union Day!

    International Credit Union Day 2024 takes place next week 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 and Resources: Access to workshops, seminars, and 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!

  5. Enjoy a Stress-Free Festive Season With Our Christmas Club Accounts!

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    Enjoy a Stress-Free Festive Season With Our Christmas Club Accounts!

    As the holidays approach, many of us may start to feel the pressure of managing the associated expenses, like buying gifts, arranging celebrations and planning journeys to visit family and friends.

    Luckily, our Christmas Club savings accounts are here to help you enjoy a stress-free holiday by enabling you to start saving early!

    Why Choose the Christmas Club?

    1. Dedicated Savings for the Festive Season.

    The Christmas Club is a special savings account that encourages you to save for the holiday period well in advance. You can contribute throughout the year, with the funds only accessible in November, just in time for the Christmas rush. This system keeps your savings secure and prevents the temptation of dipping into them early, ensuring you have enough money set aside for when the festive expenses begin.

    1. Avoid Credit Card Debt and High-Interest Loans.

    Christmas Club accounts also stop you from relying on credit cards or high-interest loans to cover your Christmas costs. By saving regularly, you’ll have a dedicated pot of money for gifts, food and any other holiday expenses, helping you avoid the debt trap many fall into around the holidays.

    1. Manageable, Consistent Savings.

    Instead of facing large, last-minute holiday costs, the Christmas Club allows you to spread your savings across the year. Whether it’s weekly or monthly, contributing smaller amounts over time makes it easier to manage your budget and reduces the strain on your finances in the lead-up to Christmas.

    1. Security and Peace of Mind.

    We ensure that your money is safe and protected. Unlike informal savings methods, such as putting money aside at home, your Christmas savings with LCU are secured in a proper account with full access to your balance once November arrives. You can trust that your holiday funds will be there when you need them.

    1. Simple, Hassle-Free Setup.

    Opening a Christmas Club account is easy and hassle-free!

    We offer flexible deposit options, allowing you to save at your own pace. The account is specifically designed for members to build savings without the complexity of a typical high-street bank account.

    Start Early, Enjoy More.

    Saving early with the Christmas Club not only helps you manage your finances better, it also brings peace of mind knowing you are prepared for the festive season. Imagine enjoying your holidays without the stress of bills looming over you in January! By planning now, you can focus on the important things: time with loved ones, celebrations and creating joyful memories.

    If you’re looking for a smart, reliable way to handle your winter expenses, join Leeds Credit Union’s Christmas Club today and make this Christmas one to remember!

    For more information or to apply for a Christmas Club account, click here.

  6. We’re Empowering The City’s Workforce!

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    We’re delighted to announce that we’ve helped workers in and around Leeds save more than £1.1 million in high-interest loan repayments on £1.5 million of lending in the past year!

    By enabling our members to avoid the high costs associated with unethical doorstep lenders and loan sharks, we’ve saved them £1,130,616 in interest repayments over the last 12 months through our payroll loans service.

    A simple way of increasing financial resilience among workers in the local area, our payroll loans enable employees of selected employers to access affordable and responsible loans with competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms, with repayments taken directly from the borrower’s salary.

    We recognise that financial stress can greatly affect individual happiness and wellbeing, so we’re delighted to be fostering financial well-being and empowering individuals across Leeds. By partnering with LCU, employers can facilitate this process too, making it easy for employees to reduce the stress associated with unexpected expenses, giving them peace of mind and allowing them to focus better on their job responsibilities.

    Mark Fleet, our CEO, said: “With the cost of living crisis still ongoing, we understand that times are tough for many right now, and we’re proud to support people across the city – including employees of organisations including the NHS and Leeds City Council – by providing access to our low-interest loans through payroll partnerships.

    “As well as stopping them overpaying on interest for store cards, overdrafts, credit cards and high-interest loans, we’re also helping them stay in control of their finances. And, with research showing that financial worries can have a negative impact on workers’ wellbeing and work/life balance, all of which can contribute to anxiety, poor work performance and absenteeism, we’re thrilled to be able to do so.

    “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; 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.”

    To find out more about our payroll services, visit: https://leedscreditunion.co.uk/payroll-services/

  7. Pension Credit Factsheet.

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    Pension Credit Factsheet.

    Many of our members will no doubt have seen that changes have been made to Winter Fuel Payments, with anyone wanting to claim the Winter Fuel Payment now needing to access pension credits. 

    But what exactly are they and how do they work?

    Click here for more information.

  8. Get Ahead Of The Holidays With A Christmas Club Account.

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    Get Ahead Of The Holidays With A Christmas Club Account.

    UK Savings Week may be coming to an end but that doesn’t mean it’s time to stop saving, especially with the festive season closer than some of us would care to admit!

    Christmas has a way of sneaking up on us, often in an enjoyable, magical way. However, the excitement of holiday lights, festive meals and gift-giving can also bring financial stress.

    Whether you’re buying presents, stocking up on food or planning holiday trips, December expenses can quickly add up, which is why it pays to start saving early. 

    Thankfully, with one of our Christmas Club Accounts, spreading the cost and enjoying a stress-free holiday season has never been easier!

    What is the Christmas Club Account?

    Our Christmas Club Account is a special savings account designed to help you prepare for the festive season by putting away a little money each month throughout the year. It allows you to build up a Christmas fund gradually, ensuring you have the money you need when the holidays arrive, without relying on last-minute loans or credit cards.

    The best part? You can’t access your Christmas savings until November, helping you resist the temptation to dip into your funds early. By the time the holidays roll around, you’ll have a nice cushion to cover all your holiday expenses.

    How Does the Christmas Club Account Work?

    Opening a Christmas Club Account is simple:

    1. Set Up Regular Deposits: Whether you want to save a little each week or make monthly contributions, you can set up a standing order or deposit when it suits you. The flexibility means you can save at your own pace.
    2. Lock Your Savings: Funds in your Christmas Club Account are kept safe until November 1st, ensuring they are available when you need them most. This feature helps you stay on track with your savings goal without the temptation to withdraw early.
    3. Enjoy a Stress-Free Christmas: When the holiday season approaches, you can withdraw your savings and start spending on gifts, decorations, food and all the festive trimmings without worrying about overspending or going into debt.

    Why Start Saving for Christmas Now?

    While it’s easy to think, “I’ll start saving later,” the earlier you begin, the easier it will be to meet your holiday goals. Here are a few reasons why starting now makes a big difference:

    • Avoid the Last-Minute Scramble: The run-up to Christmas is a busy time for everyone and finding extra cash in December can be tough. By spreading your savings out, you’ll be ready when the festive season hits, avoiding the last-minute rush to cover costs.
    • Budget Better: With regular, small deposits into your Christmas Club Account, you’ll spread the cost of Christmas over several months, making it easier to manage your household budget throughout the year.
    • No January Debt Hangover: Many people rely on credit cards to cover holiday expenses, leading to a financial hangover in January. With a Christmas Club Account, you can pay for your holiday needs upfront, avoiding the stress of post-holiday debt.

    Make Your Christmas More Enjoyable

    The festive season is meant to be a time of joy and celebration with family and friends, not stress over how to pay for everything. By using the Christmas Club Account, you can focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with loved ones, making memories and enjoying the magic of the season.

    Maximise Your Savings: Tips for Getting the Most from Your Christmas Club Account

    1. Set a Goal: Estimate your holiday expenses – presents, food, travel etc – and set a realistic savings goal. Knowing how much you need will help you stay motivated in the run-up to Christmas.
    2. Automate Your Savings: Set up a standing order to automatically transfer money into your Christmas Club Account each payday. This way, you’ll consistently save without thinking about it and your balance will grow effortlessly.
    3. Review Your Savings Regularly: While you can’t withdraw your funds until November, it’s a good idea to check in on your progress periodically. Adjust your contributions if necessary to ensure you meet your savings target in time for the festive season.
    4. Top It Up: If you come across extra cash – whether from birthday money, a tax refund or selling unwanted items – consider putting it into your Christmas Club Account for a holiday boost.

    Why Save With Leeds Credit Union?

    At Leeds Credit Union, we’re here to help you prepare for Christmas the smart way. Our Christmas Club Account is designed with your needs in mind, offering flexibility and peace of mind. By saving a little at a time, you’ll avoid holiday debt and reduce your financial stress.

    Ready to Get Started?

    There’s no better time than now to start saving for the festive season. Open your Christmas Club Account today and get ahead of the holiday rush! Visit our Christmas Club page or stop by your nearest branch to learn more.

  9. UK Savings Week.

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    UK Savings Week.

    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 2024 UK savings statistics provided by price comparison website money.co.uk, at the time of responding:

    • 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 9th-15th 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.

    1. 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.
    2. ‘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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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!
    5. 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.
    6. 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.

    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.

  10. Get Ready For The New School Year With LCU.

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    Get Ready For The New School Year With LCU.

    With the new school year just around the corner, parents across the UK are beginning the annual task of ensuring their little ones are fully equipped.

    But with the nation still in the throes of a cost-of-living crisis, the prospect of forking out hundreds of pounds for school uniforms and new equipment is likely to be giving many parents sleepless nights.

    And that figure is no exaggeration; according to the Schoolwear Association, the average cost of compulsory secondary school uniform in England in 2024 is £92.35 per pupil. While slightly less than 2023’s figure of £96.24, this still represents a significant outlay, especially for households with multiple school-aged children.

    While new laws around schools helping parents clothe their kids for less should help cut some of the cost, there are other ways to keep the expense of buying uniforms manageable. These include:

    Shopping at supermarkets.

    Most supermarkets have good-sized clothing sections these days and many of them do an excellent line in school uniforms. So long as your child’s school allows generic clothing, plain coloured items with no badges or branding can be picked up at massively reduced prices.

    If your child does require clothing with a logo, it may be possible to buy a generic item of clothing and iron or sew a badge on yourself.

    Hit the sales.

    Retailers like Sainsburys and Marks & Spencer offer clothing discounts across their entire ranges a few times a year. Check out what offers are currently available online and, if you get your timing right, you could get as much as 25% off the cost of a school uniform.

    Buy second-hand uniforms from your child’s school.

    If you’re lucky, your child’s school will host second-hand uniform sales a few times a year, enabling you to pick up everything they’ll need for the next 12 months at a fraction of the first-hand price.

    School or council support.

    Some councils and schools offer financial support, so use the Government’s postcode checker tool to see if your local council can help, or contact your children’s school directly.

    Look for a bargain online.

    eBay and Facebook Marketplace often throw up offers that look too good to be true, so remember to check their websites regularly. And don’t dawdle if you do see something useful – good deals usually get snapped up in no time at all.

    When it comes to equipment, your little one’s needs will vary depending on whether they attend primary or secondary school but the items of equipment most commonly required are:

    Stationery.

    Although plenty of schoolwork is done on computers and laptops these days, schoolchildren are still expected to carry an extensive list of stationery items with them. The essentials include:

    • Pens
    • Pencils
    • Rubber
    • Pencil sharpener
    • Pencil case
    • Ruler
    • Compass
    • Protractor
    • Set square
    • Calculator 
    • Glue stick
    • Scissors
    • Notebooks
    • Folders

    The good news is that stationery is both relatively inexpensive and long-lasting. Retailers like WHSmiths and Rymans currently have sales or multi-buy offers on back-to-school essentials so keep an eye on their websites and take advantage of any bargains to keep your costs down.

    It’s also worth asking family and friends with kids who have left school if they have any kit left over that you could buy used or just take off their hands. Similarly, charity shops often have plenty of equipment to choose from, as do pound shops and online marketplaces.

    The cheapest way to pick up specialist maths equipment is to buy it as a set, while basic calculators can be picked up from most supermarkets from as little as £10. 

    Electronics and accessories.

    If you need to buy your child a laptop, you’ll want to get one that’s light enough for them to carry around, small enough to be easily transportable and that holds enough charge to get them through a school day.

    If the cost of buying a new laptop is prohibitive, don’t worry – refurbished laptops are easily available in shops and online and offer an affordable way to purchase a high specification laptop at a reduced price. Check out Refurbished Laptops for high quality devices that have been tested to guarantee they’re as good as new and wiped clean of previous data.

    Back to school September 2024.

    If you’re a parent, the fact that the new school year also means a new set of costs is something you’re probably all too familiar with.

    If you’re concerned about how you’ll pay for new uniforms and equipment this year, our Family Loans allow you to borrow as much as £1,250 to help cover the cost. For more information, click here.