The Family Centre working in partnership with CroydonPlus Credit Union

The Family Centre is based in an area characterised by high levels of social deprivation. New Addington North, with 10,742 residents, is the most deprived ward in Croydon, and New Addington South, with 11,320 residents, has the most deprived LSOA.

New Addington North and South are amongst the four most educationally deprived wards in Croydon with higher-than-average numbers of children living in poverty. 30.1% of children under 16’s are living in low-income families, with a higher-than-average number of families dependent on out of work benefits.

Within our overall beneficiary group, the Family Centre has a specific focus on individuals and families who experience multiple forms of deprivation and need holistic support to address educational, social, economic, health and housing challenges.

Over the past 26 years since our inception, The Family Centre has become a well-known, trusted and respected hub, widely used by diverse members of the community.

Working in Partnership with Peter from CroydonPlus Credit Union

Residents in New Addington are, unfortunately, used to organisations coming in and stating that they are going to work wonders. Often the mindset is, ‘to do things to’ rather than ‘to do things with’, and to reach certain targets.

The outreach service that Peter (CroydonPlus Credit Union) provides, encapsulates doing work with and alongside the resident. The first barrier that he was able to break down, was the barrier of availability. Peter would attend the Family Centre regularly and consistently, ensuring that he built positive relationships with residents and other professionals onsite.  Building trust is key, if you don’t have the trust of residents or the community, then regardless of how good you are the service will fail.

Once Peter gained the trust of residents, he was able to discuss the benefits of joining a Credit Union. He explained all the different initiatives and as a little sweetener also gave free pens and notepads away - everybody likes a freebie! Residents were very open with Peter and started to share with him their financial situation.

A Big Impact

The impact of the service that Peter provided includes the following:

• Residents had a better understanding of their financial situation and the services and initiatives joining a credit union has.

• Residents are encouraged to take a loan out with a reputable company and not go to Loan Sharks that prey on the vulnerable.

• School uniform initiatives and saving for the festive period all year round.

• Being able to access this service on their doorstep rather than travel into central Croydon.

• The ease of being able to email Peter anytime with residents that want to be referred to the service.

• Having 1:1 interaction with a qualified person rather than an automated voice message.

• Residents are encouraged to save - even a few pounds a week soon adds up!

• Regaining financial control of their lives and having more money in their pockets!

We are looking forward to working with Peter and CroydonPlus Credit Union in the very near future and will continue to refer residents to the wonderful service he and CroydonPlus provide.