With 15th October 2020 marking International Credit Union Day, credit unions across the globe are celebrating all that is unique about our sector. At present, that includes 86,055 credit unions in 118 countries, serving 291 million members!

We thought that was the perfect time to talk about the democratic process at the heart of our community. In this post, we’ll outline the part every member plays in our amazing credit union – and three ways you can get involved that bit more.

All members are shareholders

First and foremost, all members of Metro Moneywise Credit Union are shareholders. This happens as soon as you start saving with us, as your money contributes to our responsible lending for other members.

As a shareholder, you get a share of our surplus through the annual dividend on your savings. But you get to have a say in how the credit union is run, which can be done in three different ways…

1. Give us your feedback

You can pick up the phone, email us, leave us a Google review here, or send us a good old-fashioned letter. It could be praise (yes please!), feedback or an idea on how things can be done differently. Either way, we would love to hear from you.

2. Come to our Annual General Meeting

Every member of our credit union is invited to our Annual General Meeting. This allows you to get an update about how the credit union is performing, as well as raising any issues with the Board and staff team in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Each member gets to vote at the AGM regardless of how much you have in savings – one member, one vote. Given the circumstances this year, we’re working on a way for members to get involved online, so watch this space.

3. Join our volunteer Board of Directors

Metro Moneywise is always looking to recruit new Board members to help shape and develop the future ambitions of the credit union. We’re a financially strong organisation that has been running successfully for 30 years and we need members, like you, to help ensure we continue to run a thriving and vibrate credit union.

If you are interested in joining the Board or just want to find out a bit more about Metro Moneywise and seeing the people involved, have a read of our Board recruitment pack. The pack provides information about who we are, what we do and what we are looking for from new Board members.

We recognise that there is strength in diversity, which is why we welcome applications from members with a wide range of backgrounds. In short, if you believe in people helping people, and think you have something to offer then please get in touch.

We will provide successful candidates with lots of training opportunities and access to a wide network of credit union colleagues in the UK and beyond. Most importantly, you’ll be doing your bit to make sure your credit union is here for years to come. What better way to celebrate International Credit Union Day 2020?