CAB And Credit Union Set Up Downpatrick Debt Surgery
1 February 2012 |
Posted by Jim Masson |
DOWNPATRICK Credit Union and the local office of the Citizen’s Advice Bureau are teaming up to help local people meet the New Year financial challenges.
In a first for Northern Ireland., the two organisations are uniting to pool their resources for the benefit of the community in Downpatrick. Announcing the initiative, Downpatrick Cvredit Union manager said: “Since 1969 Downpatrick Credit Union has existed with one sole purpose, to meet the financial needs of our local members. Over the years we have expanded our services and this partnership is a direct result of the increased pressures facing local households during the economic downturn.
Adam Harbinson, Down District CAB debt advisor and Ann Irvine, Downpatrick Credit Union ready to pride help with growing local debt issues
“During this pilot project, a member of the Citizens Advice team will attend at the Credit Union once a month. The CAB will be available to members to offer advice on how to overcome financial difficulties in what we are calling ‘The Surgery’.
“Both the CAB and the Credit Union are based on the same principles, we are not for profit organisations and there solely to meet the needs of local people. Unlike other high-interest ‘get rich quick’ lenders we are not there to profit on the needs of people.”
Adam Harbinson, Down District CAB Debt Advisor said: “The key of managing problem debts is to take a structured approach, and that’s difficult when you are emotionally involved.
Philip Blair, PR Officer at Downpatrick Credit Union said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for two great local institutions to work together for the good of their community.”
Downpatrick Credit Union has been serving the local community since 1969. Established to enable local people to help themselves in relieving debt and poverty, it now provides a range of financial services as well as a year round calendar of community events. The Credit Union on Market Street is open six days a week and like those throughout Northern Ireland is owned by the community which it serves.”
