ABCUL is the voice of the credit union movement throughout Britain. And we're the country's largest development, information and training network for new and existing credit unions.

Our aim is simple - to make credit unions the first-choice for low-cost, high quality and ethical financial services. We're a democratic, not-for-profit organisation, and our member credit unions already serve more than a quarter of a million people in Britain. ABCUL is improving day-to-day operations, legislation and regulation for all credit unions.

Legislation-We helped bring about changes in the Credit Unions Act 1979, and secured continued exemption from the Consumer Credit Act 1974. ABCUL is now heavily involved in the review of co-operative legislation conducted by HM Treasury and is working hard to represent the best interests of credit unions throught the UK. 

Media -Journalists writing about credit unions call ABCUL before anyone else - for statistics, news and case studies from member credit unions. We promote credit unions nationally, and put members of the public in touch with their local credit union.

Regulation- We regularly meet with the the credit union regulator - The Financial Services Authority to push the case for appropriate credit union regulation. Virtually all new credit unions choose to join ABCUL. It's easy to see why. We provide all the information, support, promotional services and development tools you need to help your credit union grow and stay up-to-date with developments.

As a member, your credit union can influence ABCUL's direction and priorities. You'll be involved in consultations, elections, our annual meeting and membership surveys. You'll be able to nominate people to stand as ABCUL officers - and have lots of opportunities to share problems and experiences with other credit unions. You'll be playing your part in changing financial services for the better.

The ABCUL Membership Services package includes: -

Your own page on this website linked to a search facility. As a member, your credit union's address, logo, phone number and opening hours are displayed along with an e-mail address - making it easy for potential members to contact you.

Credit Union Communities Website - exclusive to ABCUL members. Includes discussion forum, technical information and the latest news you need for your credit union.

The Credit Union Current Account - exclusive to ABCUL member credit unions.

Publications - our monthly members' mailing, available on paper or electronically, Credit Union News - a quarterly journal on news in the credit union movement, plus a range of manuals and toolkits.

Telephone helpline and enquiry service - Staff on hand five days a week to answer all your questions about day-to-day credit union operations, legislation, training and more.

ABCUL Study Group Pack - A full reference guide - part of our support package for anyone setting up a new credit union.

Registration - ABCUL will guide you through the procedures for registration and rule changes. ·

Training- Subsidised training, and the tailor-made Credit Union Directors' Training Programme, including training accredited by the Institute for Financial Services (ifs) and Credit Union Operations Training Programme.