From helping residents build savings to providing affordable loans, London Capital Credit Union supports people to improve their financial wellbeing and build resilience for the future. We spoke to Enioluwa Adeyemi, better known as, Enny, a Member Service Support Officer about how credit unions work, what makes them different, and the impact they’re having in Islington.

What do you do at London Capital Credit Union?

I’m a Member Service Support Officer at London Capital Credit Union. My role is all about being there for our members day to day — answering their questions, helping them navigate their accounts, and guiding them toward the right financial products for their circumstances. But a big part of what I do goes beyond transactions: it’s about financial education, helping people understand how saving and borrowing responsibly can genuinely change their lives.

What is a credit union?

We’re a not-for-profit, member-owned financial cooperative. That means we’re owned by our members, not shareholders, and every decision we make is centred on the community we serve rather than generating profit for outside investors. We offer savings accounts and low-interest loans, but our real purpose is helping people build a genuine savings habit and access fair, affordable borrowing.

What makes credit unions different?

We lend to people that traditional lenders often won’t even consider. But what really sets us apart is our approach: when someone takes out a loan with us, they also save alongside it. It might seem like a small detail, but it’s transformative — it means that by the time the loan is repaid, members have built a savings cushion of their own, putting them in a stronger position not to need to borrow next time. We’re not just lending money; we’re helping people build lasting financial resilience.

Why should Islington residents join?

I’d recommend us to anyone who has struggled with poor credit or felt turned away by traditional lenders. We’ve helped thousands of people access affordable, manageable borrowing when other options weren’t available — and just as importantly, we help them build a positive repayment history along the way. To put it in numbers: we’ve supported 3,254 local residents who are members with us, helping them save £4.6 million between them, and provided £2.5 million in low-cost loans. Behind those figures are real moments — a family able to enjoy the school holidays without financial worry, someone funding further education, or a person able to travel and say goodbye to a loved one. That’s the difference affordable credit can make.

How can saving with a credit union help?

Building a savings buffer is one of the most important things you can do for your financial wellbeing, and it’s something we actively encourage every member towards — whether that’s through our loan-and-save structure or simply opening a savings account with us. Even small, regular amounts add up over time, and having that buffer means you’re better prepared for life’s unexpected moments, rather than reaching for high-cost credit when things get tight.

What are the benefits of saving with you?

When we make a profit, we share it — with members through dividends and with our staff through bonuses. Last year alone, we paid back £270,000 to our members in dividends, money that went straight back into the pockets of the local community. And because your savings with us help fund affordable loans for your neighbours, saving with London Capital Credit Union isn’t just good for you — it’s good for Islington as a whole.

How can people join?

Joining is open to everyone, and it’s completely free. Just head to…https://credit-union.coop/join-now/