Berkshire council considers credit union scheme

A Berkshire council is considering setting up a credit union to help residents avoid loan sharks and high interest rates on loans.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead is to consider a proposal at a cabinet meeting next week to expand a Reading-based scheme into the borough.

Reading Credit Union already offers credit to residents with low or no credit rating.

Members can also use the scheme to invest money.

Finance councillor Richard Kellaway said: "The current economic situation is hitting people hard.

"There are those who, for various reasons, may have a poor or no credit rating and are finding it difficult to get a loan at all or to get a loan with affordable interest rates.

"A local credit union will offer a reliable, affordable savings and loans service which will be part of our community and help local people manage their financial affairs.

Reading Credit Union was set up in 2008 and offers loans to residents for items such as school uniforms.