Credit Unions in 2035: Shaping the Future of Inclusive Finance

Credit unions are more than just financial institutions - they are community anchors, providing fair financial services and affordable credit to thousands of British households. As member-owned cooperatives, they put people before profit and help build wealth that stays rooted in local communities.

Yet only 2.5% of the British population are members of a credit union.

In a time of worsening financial insecurity and economic uncertainty, the potential of credit unions to support local people and places to thrive has never been greater. How can credit unions evolve and grow to meet the challenges ahead?

-----------------------

The New Economics Foundation and Swoboda Research Centre are undertaking a two-year research and advocacy programme to develop an ambitious vision for the credit union sector in 2035.

We’re inviting stakeholders interested in economic inclusion and financial fairness to join us on 16 September and help define that vision, along with the steps to get there.

Event highlights:

• Keynote: Ed Mayo, CEO of Pilotlight and former CEO of Co-operatives UK
• State of the sector: Dr. Paul A. Jones, Swoboda Director
• Panel discussion: exploring credit unions’ role in green finance, racial justice, digital inclusion, and more - facilitated by NEF's Chief Executive, Dr. Danny Sriskandarajah.
• Interactive session: share your insights and help shape the project’s direction

Join us in-person at Friends House, London. The programme will run from 11:30 to 13:00. Participants are welcome from 11:00 (tea and coffee provided). Lunch and networking will follow the formal programme.

Reserve your place and add your voice to this important conversation.

Option to join remotely available upon request.