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Tag Archive: Savings

  1. Regaining Control of Your Finances After Christmas.

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    Regaining Control of Your Finances After Christmas.

    Christmas and New Year are special times, all about family, celebration and creating memories. However, they can also take a toll on our finances and if you’re currently too scared to check your bank balance, you’re not alone.

    The important thing now isn’t to feel guilty – it’s to take back control of your money. Here are some tips on how to do so.

    Take stock without panic.

    The first step is understanding where you stand. List what you owe, what money’s coming in and what needs to go out each month. Seeing everything clearly can feel uncomfortable at first, but it quickly becomes empowering. Once you know the full picture, you can make informed decisions rather than reacting to financial pressure.

    If you’ve used credit cards, overdrafts or buy-now-pay-later options over Christmas, it’s worth checking the interest rates and repayment terms. High-interest borrowing can quickly spiral if left unchecked, making it harder to get back on track.

    Avoid high-risk borrowing.

    When money is tight, it can be tempting to look for a fast solution, like doorstep lenders or even loan sharks. However, short-term, high-cost loans often make problems worse rather than better, locking you into expensive repayments and adding stress at a time when you’re already feeling stretched.

    That’s why it’s so important to choose a lender that puts your wellbeing first.

    A safer way forward with LCU.

    LCU exists to support local people, not to profit from financial difficulty. As a not-for-profit, member-owned organisation, everything we do is focused on helping our members manage their money responsibly and confidently.

    If Christmas spending has left you juggling debts or struggling to keep up, one of our affordable, transparent and manageable loans could help you regain control.

    Because we take the time to understand your circumstances, repayments are set at a level that works for you. There are no hidden fees, no pressure and no judgement, just clear, fair lending designed to support families.

    Remember – You’re not alone.

    If you’re worried about money after the festive period, help is available. LCU is part of your local community, offering affordable loans and access to a range of savings accounts, all designed to help you move beyond Christmas overspending and back into financial control.

  2. Dealing With Debt At Christmas.

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    Dealing With Debt At Christmas.

    As the cost of living crisis continues, the financial pressure facing many households in the UK feels like it’s increasing all the time, and that’s before you consider the added pressure of buying expensive Christmas presents for family and friends.

    With financial problems mounting and consumer confidence plummeting, it’s never been more important for people to keep a close eye on their debts, make sure they don’t increase significantly over Christmas and make sure they’re properly managed.

    One of the most effective ways of doing so is with a debt consolidation loan. But what exactly is one? Let’s find out.

    What is a debt consolidation loan?

    A debt consolidation loan is a type of loan that an individual takes out to pay off their existing debts. The individual uses the money from the debt consolidation loan to pay off the people or companies to whom they are in debt, then repays the loan in monthly instalments.

    Debt consolidation loans can be used to pay off different types of debt, such as credit cards, overdrafts, store cards or personal loans.

    What are the benefits of debt consolidation loans?

    Taking out a debt consolidation loan is an effective way of taking back control of your finances as it allows you to immediately pay off all your debts and leaves you responsible for just one repayment each month. 

    When you have several lenders to repay each month, it can be easy to forget to make a payment, especially if the repayments are for different amounts and due on different dates. Needless to say, this makes budgeting and general money management much more difficult.

    Because bigger loans often come with lower interest rates, debt consolidation loans can also lower your monthly repayment amount, reducing your outgoings. The repayments can also be spread over a period of time that is more suitable for you, which could potentially lower your monthly repayments too.

    Take control of your debt with a Leeds Credit Union loan.

    A cursory glance at almost any British news outlet will give you an indication of the financial difficulties people in the UK currently face. While this is naturally a cause for concern, it’s important to remember that financial help from reputable lenders is available to anyone who needs it.

    At Leeds Credit Union, we don’t charge any set-up fees for our debt consolidation loans, nor do we charge any penalties for early loan repayments. For more information or to apply for a loan, click here.

  3. Talk Money Week 2025.

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    Talk Money Week 2025.

    This week is Talk Money Week, an annual event designed to kickstart conversations about managing our finances and highlight the great work being done by credit unions, banks and other organisations that are helping people across the UK attain financial security.

    With the financial impact of the cost of living crisis still being felt by many households in the UK, this year’s Talk Money Week is of the utmost importance to ensure those at the greatest risk of financial hardship are aware that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that help is available to them.

    Talk Money Week explained.

    Run by the Money and Pension Service (MaPS), Talk Money Week is for everybody and encourages partners, family, friends, colleagues, employees and more to have conversations about their money in an attempt to make the subject less taboo. 

    At present, money is one of the UK’s least favourite topics of discussion, with nine in 10 adults struggling to talk about money or avoiding the subject altogether. The hope is that, by discussing our personal finances more openly, we can all increase our financial and mental wellbeing. 

    Studies indicate that talking about money makes us feel better about it and helps us build healthier money habits, such as saving more regularly and making less risky financial decisions. In addition, talking about money reduces stress and anxiety and strengthens relationships. It also increases the likelihood that the person or people you discuss your finances with will do the same, allowing them to receive the same benefits.

    While talking about your finances with your partner, family and friends should be reasonably straightforward once you’ve broached the subject, discussing it with kids and colleagues is a different proposition. 

    Talking money with children.

    When it comes to kids, it’s never too early to start teaching them about money and helping them understand how to manage it effectively, building their confidence on the subject. 

    If you have kids that receive pocket money, letting them take responsibility for it will develop their financial skills and teach them about the cost of living and the importance of saving from an early age.

    Talking money at work.

    If you’re under financial pressure, talking about it with your colleagues or employer is a great way to start taking back control of your bottom line.

    As for employers, encouraging your employees to discuss their financial circumstances can help them take control of their financial situation and future, including their ability to adapt to and deal with unexpected hardship.

    How can Leeds Credit Union help?

    At Leeds Credit Union, we provide straightforward and affordable financial services to people in Leeds, Wakefield, Harrogate and Craven. We help our members take control of their savings with a range of services, such as loans, savings accounts, including one for children under the age of 18, and a money and budgeting service designed to help people create realistic budgets to ensure they can always pay their bills on time. This helps them achieve financial security now and in the future.

    But, as the name suggests, the most important thing about Talk Money Week is getting people to open up and talk about their money, whether they’re more concerned with their pension or their pocket money.

    We’re big fans of the annual event and would encourage all our members to come together and join the conversation. If you find it difficult to talk about money and would like some advice on starting a financial conversation, MaPS has created a series of guides which could help. There’s also our helpful MABS team who work in partnership with Housing Leeds, helping tenants who are struggling to budget their money and pay their bills.

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

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    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.

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

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    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!

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

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    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!

  7. LCU – Making Christmas More Affordable.

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    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/

  8. International Credit Union Day 2025.

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    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!

  9. Budgeting Tips For Christmas 2025.

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    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.

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

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    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!