Ever felt worried about money? At some point we all have – it can feel embarrassing and intimidating.
Managing your money can be stressful! Past situations may have knocked your confidence. Building the courage to save or apply for loans after bad experiences can be tricky. Natalie turned to South Manchester Credit Union.
Personal struggles
Natalie went through some difficult times; her ex-partner was controlling her finances.
Through her struggles, Natalie ended up having to leave her job as a carer that she loved and due to poor mental health after being hospitalised.
She was struggling and lost a lot of trust and confidence through all of this.
“My ex-partner was financially exploiting me when I was vulnerable.”
Rebuilding trust
After getting out of hospital and away from a controlling relationship, Natalie moved back in with her dad and started looking for jobs.
She found the whole application and interview process difficult. Due to her vulnerabilities, she felt that employers were discriminating against her.
As Natalie was financially exploited, she was left in a bad situation financially and had gotten into debt.
Finding a sense of belonging
Natalie has been a member of South Manchester Credit Union since 2024 and had been going through her struggles during her time as a member. We were understanding of her circumstances and made sure her finances were protected throughout this time.
We offer the best support to all our members, personalised to each individual circumstance.
“They never overlooked my finances and gave me the opportunity to build a good credit score and relationship with the team.”
We were able to support Natalie through her difficult times and offer fair, affordable loans to get her back on her feet.
“It was really nice to find the confidence to apply for a loan.”
From struggles to success
Natalie has become a confident saver and especially likes our Christmas Club account.
Her Dad’s birthday is on Christmas day, so that time of year is extra expensive for Natalie.
Having the opportunity to save throughout the year into her Christmas Club account has given her a breather, as she doesn’t have to dip into her wages for gifts.
Through hard work and confidence building, Natalie recently got a new job back in the care industry that she loves and has worked in for 17 years.
“South Manchester Credit Union has done a massive amount for me. It’s given me the confidence to save- it’s given me a whole new life really.”
Onwards and upwards
Natalie went through a lot, at no fault of her own, and has turned her life around after a lot of struggles.
We were able to help with her finances after other lenders had let her down – we see a person as more than a credit score.
Each loan application we receive is individually assessed based on affordability.
“I have come a long way and have reached my goals both financially and career-wise.”
Natalie is still saving and working towards her life goals. She hopes to soon have a property of her own and to use her savings to furnish and decorate her first home.
If you are worried about reaching out to us…
“Don’t hesitate, they have helped me massively through difficulties. Don’t let reaching out for support knock your confidence.”
Natalie has been able to gain back trust, control of her finances and even found a sense of community and belonging.
“I would absolutely recommend South Manchester Credit Union; they are supportive and have given me the chance to have breaks during times of difficulty.”
We want what’s best for you
“Professional, kind, patient, attentive, helpful and caring” are some of the words that Natalie used to describe us.
We encourage all our members to always reach out if they are struggling so that we can do our best for you.
And finally,
“Talk about things, be kind, don’t be judgemental. You never know what someone might be going through.”
You are not alone, don’t be scared to reach out.
