A CREDIT union has been able to continue supporting members remotely throughout the pandemic thanks to a charitable donation.

The Whitehaven, Egremont & District Credit Union, a non-profit cooperative that provides accessible savings and low-interest loans to help those on the lowest incomes, received a donation of £1,190 from Cumbria Community Foundation’s Covid-19 Response Fund to allow it to provide support remotely to its members, after it had to cancel face-to-face appointments.

A spokesman for the foundation explained: “Due to the economic impact of Covid-19, supporting members’ financial wellbeing has become a central issue for credit unions. People suffering financial difficulties due to the lockdown can be at risk from high interest doorstep lenders.

“Credit Unions work closely with the local authority to stamp out loan sharks and ensure people have access to flexible, affordable and fair lending during this time of uncertainty.”

The union’s manager, Andrea Dockeray, said: “A huge thank you to Cumbria Community Foundation, from all the directors, staff and volunteers, for the funding to allow us to maintain our high level of personal service to our existing and new members in the current crisis.”