Easy Ways to Save Money for Bad Days: Your Guide to Being Ready

Bad things can happen to anyone. Your washing machine might break. Your car might stop working. You might lose your job. When these things happen, you need money to fix them.

This is why you need to save money for bad days. We call this an "emergency fund." It's like having a piggy bank for grown-ups.

Why Save Money for Bad Days?

An emergency fund is money you keep safe for when something goes wrong. It helps you pay for things like:

Money experts say you should save enough money to pay your bills for 3 to 6 months. But even £500 can help a lot. The most important thing is to start saving now.

How to Start Saving Money

1. Start Small You don't need to save lots of money at once. Save just a little bit each week. Maybe £5. Maybe £2. Every penny counts.

2. Make It Automatic Ask your bank to move money from your main account to your savings account every time you get paid. This way, you won't forget to save.

3. Use Extra Money Sometimes you get extra money. Like birthday money or money back from the tax office. Put this straight into your emergency savings.

4. Spend Less on Some Things Look at what you spend money on each month. Can you:

Put the money you save straight into your emergency fund.

5. Save Your Change Some bank apps can help you save. Every time you buy something, they round up to the next pound. The extra money goes into savings. So if you spend £4.20, they take £5 and save 80p for you.

6. Save More When You Can When you get more money (like a pay rise), save some of it. Even if it's just a little bit more each month.

How Sheffield Credit Union Can Help

Sheffield Credit Union wants to help you save money. We have different ways to save:

Easy Savings Account

Special Accounts

Save While You Borrow This is special. If you borrow money from us, you also save money at the same time. When you finish paying back the loan, you have savings too!

We Keep Your Money Safe Your money is protected. This means even if something bad happens to the credit union, you will get your money back.

Tips to Keep Your Emergency Fund Safe

Start Today

You don't need to earn lots of money to start saving. You just need to start. Sheffield Credit Union is here to help you save your money and cheer you on.

Come and talk to us about opening a savings account. We can help you make a plan that works for you. Together, we can help you be ready for whatever happens.


Progress Loan: Money to Help You When You Need It

Sheffield Credit Union wants to help people in Sheffield. We lend money to people who need it. We are not trying to make lots of money from you. We want to help you and your family.

Our most popular loan is called a Progress Loan. This loan can help you when you need money for important things.

What is a Progress Loan?

A Progress Loan is money we lend to you. You pay it back bit by bit each month. You can borrow between £200 and £7,500. That means you could borrow a small amount like £200 or a big amount like £7,500.

You don't need to save money with us first. New members can ask for a loan straight away.

Why Might You Need a Loan?

People use Progress Loans for many things:

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost depends on how much you borrow:

Good Things About Our Loans

No Hidden Costs We don't charge you extra fees. If you want to pay back your loan early, you can. This will save you money.

Top-Up Your Loan If you have paid back one third of your loan, you can ask to borrow more money.

We Look at Your Whole Situation We don't just look at your credit score. We look at:

We want to make sure the loan is right for you.

Who Can Get a Progress Loan?

You can apply if:

If you get Universal Credit or work for yourself, that's fine. Just show us proof of your income.

How to Apply

Getting a loan is easy:

  1. Fill in our form online (takes about 10 minutes) or ask for a paper form
  2. Send us your bank statements using our safe website
  3. We will look at your application and tell you yes or no within 2 working days
  4. If we say yes, we put the money in your bank account quickly

We Want You to Save Too

When you have a Progress Loan, we ask you to save a little money each month too. This helps you:

Why Choose Sheffield Credit Union?

We Are Fair We are not like payday loan companies that charge lots of money. We are run by our members. We want to help you, not make lots of money from you.

We Help Sheffield When you borrow from us, you help other people in Sheffield too. We use our money to help more people get fair loans.

We Are Here to Help Our staff are friendly and helpful. They can answer your questions and help you understand everything. We want you to feel comfortable and safe.

Progress Loans Help You Move Forward

Sometimes life is hard and you need help. A Progress Loan is more than just borrowing money. It's a way to solve problems and make your life better.

If you think a Progress Loan might help you, talk to us. You can:

We are here to help you make progress.

Important Things to Remember

Back to School in Sheffield: Your Guide to September Savings & Staying on Budget

The lazy days of summer are slipping away, which means it’s time to gear up for a new school year! With term starting in early September across Sheffield, parents, carers, and students are all on the hunt for the best back-to-school deals to stay September-ready—without bursting the budget. Whether you’re refreshing uniforms, ticking off stationery lists, or snagging a new pair of shoes, Sheffield is packed with affordable options to help you prepare for the academic year ahead.

Where to Find the Best Back-to-School Bargains in Sheffield

1. Uniforms, Shoes, and Sports Kit

Big retailers and supermarkets are rolling out wallet-friendly collections this year:

2. Stationery, Bags, Water Bottles & Extras

Stationery and accessories can add up, but Sheffield’s city centre and retail parks have plenty of value options:

3. Shoes and Trainers

Sheffield’s high street shops and Meadowhall’s iconic brands are offering:

4. Health, Skincare & Lunchbox Items

Back-to-school isn’t just about supplies—staying fresh and healthy matters too! Visit:

Sheffield Credit Union: Affordable Loans for School Essentials

We all know the cost of getting ready for the new school year can be a struggle for many families. That’s why support from local financial organisations can make a world of difference.

Sheffield Credit Union offers affordable loans, designed specifically for back-to-school essentials. Here’s how they can help you be September-ready without stress:

Applying is straightforward: Bring your proof of income (pay, benefits, or self-employment) and last 3 months of bank statements. Responsible lending and a community focus mean you'll get support beyond the loan—including savings advice for your family’s long-term financial well-being.

Budget-Smart Back-to-School Tips

Make those back-to-school pounds go further with these local tips:

Get Ready for a Brilliant Academic Year

Back-to-school season doesn’t have to break the bank. With Sheffield’s mix of retail bargains, supportive community credit union loans, and clever budgeting, you can kit out your kids with everything they need for September—without the financial stress. Shop smart, plan ahead, and don’t hesitate to look into local support to ease the burden of back-to-school spending. Here’s to a fresh start and a successful academic year in Sheffield!

Free Summer Fun in Sheffield: Kid-Friendly Activities for Families

Summer in Sheffield offers countless opportunities for families to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Whether you're a member of Sheffield Credit Union looking for budget-friendly activities or simply seeking fun ways to keep the children entertained during the holidays, our beautiful city has something for everyone. Here's our guide to the best free summer activities that will keep your little ones happy and engaged.

Explore Sheffield's Magnificent Parks and Playgrounds

Graves Park - Sheffield's Crown Jewel

Free Entry | Parking: £1 per hour or £4 all day
Website: www.welcometosheffield.co.uk/content/attractions/graves-park

At 248 acres, Graves Park is Sheffield's largest park and offers something for everyone. This magnificent space combines open greenspace with woodland areas, featuring several streams flowing through it. The park boasts two excellent children's playgrounds, perfect for burning off energy on those long summer days.

Special Features:

Rivelin Valley - Nature's Playground

Free Entry | Free Parking
Location: Rivelin Valley Road, Sheffield

Rivelin Valley offers some of the best wild swimming spots within Sheffield city limits, perfect for adventurous families during summer. Children can enjoy paddling and playing with interactive water play equipment at Rivelin Valley Water Play, which opens from Spring Bank Holiday onwards and closes the first weekend of September.

What to Expect:

Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Free Entry | Suggested Donation Welcome
Location: Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield S10 2LN
Website: Contact Sheffield City Council for details

These stunning gardens are a true gem, featuring wildly varied exotic and historical gardens right in the heart of Ecclesall Road. Home to 5,000 species of plants spread across 19 acres, this Grade II listed botanical garden offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about a wide variety of plant species.

Perfect for families to explore together, enjoy picnics, and let children discover the wonders of nature in beautifully maintained surroundings.

Free Museums and Cultural Attractions

Weston Park Museum

Free Entry | Suggested Donation £5
Location: Weston Park, Sheffield
Website: www.sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/visit-us/weston-park-museum
Closed Mondays

Weston Park Museum tells the stories of Sheffield and its people, from pre-history to present day. The museum features exhibitions about Sheffield, history, art, and plenty of nature and science themes, with changing exhibitions ensuring there's usually something new to discover.

Current Exhibitions Include:

Kelham Island Museum

Free Entry | Suggested Donation £5
Location: Alma Street, Sheffield S3 8RY
Website: www.sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/visit-us/kelham-island-museum

Kelham Island Museum celebrates 300 years of Sheffield making history, exploring the story of making in the city from master craftsmen to mass production. Don't miss the mighty River Don Engine - the most powerful working steam engine in Europe - in action at 12pm and 2pm Thursday to Sunday.

Family-Friendly Features:

Millennium Gallery

Free Entry | Suggested Donation £5
Location: Sheffield City Centre (next to Winter Gardens)
Website: https://www.sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/visit-us/millennium-gallery/

Located in the heart of Sheffield, the Millennium Gallery opened in April 2001 as part of the city's Heart of the City project to revitalise the city centre and promote cultural activities. The gallery features changing exhibitions alongside permanent collections.

Additional Free Museums Worth Visiting:

City Centre Discoveries

Sheffield Winter Garden

Free Entry
Location: Sheffield City Centre

Visit the Winter Garden to wander amongst 2,500+ plants from around the world. It's the ideal place for families to enjoy nature even when it's cold or raining, as you're fully sheltered inside. Right outside, you'll find the Peace Gardens - a beautiful city square perfect for picnics and people-watching.

Peace Gardens

Free Entry
Location: Sheffield City Centre (next to Town Hall)

A beautiful inner city square where families can sit and admire the surrounding architecture or enjoy a packed lunch. Sometimes there are seasonal events like markets in summer and music concerts.

Summer Holiday Activities and Events

Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF)

Free for Eligible Families
Website: www.sheffield.gov.uk/schools-childcare/holiday-activities-and-food-programme

The HAF programme provides free holiday club sessions for school-aged children (Reception to Year 11) who receive income-assessed/benefits-related free school meals during Easter, summer and winter holidays. Children receive a nutritious meal whilst enjoying various activities at the clubs.

Sheffield Children's University Activities

buy a Passport to Learning for £3.50 from Sheffield Libraries | Donations Welcome
Website: www.sheffield.gov.uk/schools-childcare/childrens-university

Join the Festival of Fun for free taster activities during summer holidays. Children can earn credits in their Passport to Learning, with activities catering to children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Library Activities

Free Entry
Contact: Local Sheffield Libraries

Libraries in Sheffield host lots of activities during the holidays for children and young people of all needs. All venues are wheelchair accessible and all sessions are inclusive.

Unique Sheffield Experiences

Pop-Up Markets and Community Events

Free to Browse
Various Locations

During summer, more and more pop-up markets can be explored for free around Sharrow Vale, Nether Edge and other lovely community spots across the city.

Planning Your Summer Adventures

Getting the Most from Your Visits:

Top Tips for Families:

  1. Start Early: Popular attractions can get busy during school holidays
  2. Bring Water: Stay hydrated during summer activities, especially in parks
  3. Comfortable Shoes: Sheffield's parks offer excellent walking opportunities
  4. Camera Ready: Plenty of photo opportunities to capture family memories
  5. Check Opening Times: Some attractions have limited hours or close on certain days

Making Memories on a Budget

Sheffield truly is a fantastic city for families, offering an incredible range of free activities that prove the best things in life don't cost a penny. From exploring ancient woodlands to discovering the city's industrial heritage, from splashing in natural swimming holes to marvelling at exotic plants, there's something to capture every child's imagination.

Sheffield is wonderfully green with surprising wild swimming opportunities, beautiful botanical gardens, and fantastic green walks where you can move from park to park without feeling like you're in a city.

Whether you're planning a full day out or just need a quick activity to keep the children entertained, Sheffield's free summer offerings provide endless opportunities for family fun, learning, and adventure. So grab your picnic blankets, pack some snacks, and discover what makes Sheffield such a special place for families to explore together.

Have we missed your favourite free family activity in Sheffield? Share your recommendations with other Sheffield Credit Union members and help us create an even better resource for families in our community.

Financial Jargon Simplified: Your Guide to Understanding Money Talk

You're sitting in the bank, nodding along as your adviser rattles off terms like "compound interest," "equity," and "diversification," but inside you're completely lost, wondering if everyone else just magically knows what these words mean, and feeling too embarrassed to ask for clarification because surely you should understand this stuff by now. Sound familiar?

Don't worry – you're not alone. Financial jargon exists to make simple concepts sound complicated, but we're here to change that.

The Basics: Money Words You'll Actually Use

Interest Think of this as rent for borrowing money. When you take out a loan, you pay the lender a bit extra for letting you use their cash. When you save money, the bank pays you a bit extra for letting them use yours. Simple as that.

APR (Annual Percentage Rate) This is the real cost of borrowing money for a year, including all the fees and charges. It's like the full price tag on a loan – not just the sticker price, but everything you'll actually pay.

Credit Score Your financial report card, basically. It tells lenders how reliable you are at paying back money. Pay your bills on time, keep debt low, and your score goes up. Miss payments or max out credit cards, and it goes down.

The Saving and Investing Crowd

Compound Interest Einstein supposedly called this the eighth wonder of the world, and he wasn't wrong. It's when your money earns money, and then that money earns money too.

Here's how it works: You save £100 and earn 5% interest, so you have £105. Next year, you earn 5% on the full £105, not just your original £100. Over time, this snowball effect becomes massive.

Equity Simply put, it's ownership. If you own shares in a company, you have equity in that business. If you've paid off half your mortgage, you have 50% equity in your home. It's the bit that's actually yours.

Diversification Don't put all your eggs in one basket – that's diversification. Instead of investing all your money in one company or one type of investment, you spread it around. If one thing goes wrong, you haven't lost everything.

The Property Game

Mortgage A loan specifically for buying property. The house itself acts as security – if you can't pay, the lender can take the house. Most mortgages last 25-30 years, so you're essentially renting money for decades to buy your home.

Deposit The chunk of money you pay upfront when buying a house. If a house costs £200,000 and you put down a £20,000 deposit, you're borrowing £180,000. Bigger deposits usually mean better mortgage deals.

Remortgage Switching your mortgage to a new deal, either with your current lender or a different one. People do this to get better interest rates or release some equity from their home.

The Insurance Maze

Premium What you pay for insurance – monthly or yearly. Think of it as membership fees for financial protection.

Excess The amount you pay towards a claim before insurance kicks in. If your car repair costs £1,000 and your excess is £200, you pay £200 and insurance covers the remaining £800.

No Claims Bonus A reward for not claiming on your insurance. The longer you go without claiming, the bigger your discount becomes. It's insurance companies saying "thanks for not costing us money."

Credit Card Mysteries

Balance Transfer Moving debt from one credit card to another, usually to get a better interest rate. It's like switching energy suppliers, but for debt.

Minimum Payment The smallest amount you can pay on your credit card each month without penalty. But here's the thing – paying only the minimum means you'll be in debt for years and pay loads in interest.

Credit Limit The maximum amount you can borrow on your credit card. Just because you can borrow it doesn't mean you should – ideally, use less than 30% of your limit to keep your credit score healthy.

Making It Work for You

Understanding these terms isn't about impressing people at dinner parties. It's about making informed decisions with your money.

When someone mentions APR, you'll know to compare the full cost. When they talk about compound interest, you'll understand why starting to save early matters so much. When insurance salespeople mention excess, you'll know exactly what you're signing up for.

The financial world loves its jargon, but behind every complicated term is usually a pretty simple idea. Once you know what these words actually mean, you can ask better questions, make smarter choices, and feel confident in financial conversations.

After all, money talk shouldn't be a foreign language – it should be as clear as asking for directions to the nearest coffee shop.

At Sheffield Credit Union, we believe everyone deserves to understand their finances. If you'd like to chat about any of these terms or explore how we can help with your financial goals, pop in for a conversation. No jargon, we promise.

Beyond the Score: Why Financial Education (and a Fair Go) Matters More Than Ever 

We recently read a really thought-provoking article from BBC News about the crucial importance of financial education for young people. It touched a nerve with us here at Sheffield Credit Union because it's something we genuinely believe in – giving everyone, especially the next generation, the tools and confidence to manage their money well. 

The article rightly points out that understanding money isn't just about simple budgeting. It’s about building a solid foundation for life, learning how to save for what you want, understanding how borrowing works, and making smart choices that can impact your future for years to come. Imagine starting out in life already armed with that kind of knowledge! It can make a world of difference. 

The Cost of Living Crisis: A Harsh Reality 

But here’s the thing that really hit home for us: while the article focused on young people, the truth is, this need for financial savvy applies just as much, if not more, to individuals right now, in the thick of this challenging cost-of-living crisis. People are facing tough choices every single day, and knowing how to navigate those financial waters is absolutely essential. 

As Steve Jacques, our Community Manager, eloquently puts it, "Sadly, this applies to individuals in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis as well. Whilst banks may state this is an issue, they are the first to decline customers with bad credit history. Credit Unions are an ethical and affordable alternative for those underserved and a credit score is only one factor in someone's story." 

And he’s spot on. It’s a frustrating paradox, isn’t it? Mainstream banks will talk about the importance of financial education, yet when someone is struggling, or has had a tough time in the past, they’re often the first to shut the door. If you’ve had a few bumps in the road financially, your credit score can take a hit, and suddenly, getting a loan – even a small one to help you get back on your feet – becomes incredibly difficult. 

You're More Than a Number to Us 

This is where we, as your local Sheffield Credit Union, come in. We’re built on a different philosophy. We truly believe that everyone in our community deserves access to fair, affordable, and ethical financial services. We are here to serve our members, not just to make a profit. When you come to us, you're not just a number on a credit report; you're a part of our community. 

We understand that life happens. People go through job losses, illnesses, unexpected expenses – all sorts of things that can impact their financial situation through no fault of their own. A credit score is a snapshot, a piece of the puzzle, but it's certainly not the whole picture of who you are or what your potential is. When you apply for a loan with us, we take the time to understand your individual circumstances. We look at your whole story, not just a single score. Our goal is always to help you, not to hinder you. 

Partnering for a Brighter Future 

The BBC article also mentioned the fantastic work of organisations like Purple Shoots, who help people set up their own businesses, particularly those who have been out of work for a while or face other barriers. This really resonated with us, as we too are passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and helping people achieve their dreams, infact, we work with Purple shoots too!

If you're looking to start a new venture, grow an existing one, or just need a bit of a boost to get your business off the ground, please know that we welcome applications for a business loan. We’re here to support the vibrant local economy and help create opportunities within our community. We understand the challenges of starting a business, and we’re here to be a friendly and accessible alternative to traditional lenders. 

Let's Talk About Money 

Ultimately, whether it's for young people learning the ropes, or adults navigating complex financial situations, good financial education and access to ethical financial services are absolutely vital. We’re committed to playing our part in Sheffield. We offer savings accounts, affordable loans, and a safe, supportive place to manage your money. 

So, what are your thoughts? How do you think we can best empower individuals – young and old – with the financial knowledge they need? And if you're struggling to get by, or if you're dreaming of starting your own business and need a financial hand, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We’re here for you. You'll always be more than a credit score to us. 

Get Ready for School with Sheffield Credit Union's School Essentials Loan!

As the summer holidays approach (or perhaps you're already thinking ahead to September!), we know that getting the kids ready for school can be an exciting, but also expensive, time. From new uniforms and shoes to PE kits, stationery, and even school trips, the costs can quickly add up.

Caught short for the start of the new school year? Whether you're planning ahead or find yourself needing a little extra help as the school bell looms, Sheffield Credit Union is here for you.

That's where Sheffield Credit Union can help! We're proud to offer our School Essentials Loan, specifically designed to help our members manage these back-to-school expenses without resorting to high-interest lenders.

Why choose our School Essentials Loan?

What can our School Essentials Loan help you with?

How to Apply:

If you're a member of Sheffield Credit Union, applying for our School Essentials Loan is simple. Visit our website at https://sheffieldcreditunion.com/loans/school-essentials-loan/ to find out more and start your application. You can also give us a call or pop into our office for a chat.

Don't let the cost of Back to School essentials cause you stress. Plan ahead with Sheffield Credit Union and ensure your children are well-equipped and ready to learn this academic year.

We're here to help our members thrive, and that includes supporting you and your family through all of life's seasons.

We're Here When You're Ready: Breaking Free from Loan Sharks with Compassionate Support

At Sheffield Credit Union, we’ve always stood for ethical, community-first financial support. That’s why we’re proud to support Stop Loan Sharks Week 2025 — a campaign running from 19th to 25th May — to raise awareness of the dangers of illegal money lending and encourage those affected to seek help.

Loan sharks thrive in silence. Many people don’t realise that the person they borrowed from is acting illegally. Others feel too ashamed or afraid to ask for help. But the truth is this: you are not to blame. And there is a way out — on your own terms, and at your own pace.

The Reality Behind Loan Sharks

Borrowing from a loan shark doesn’t start with intimidation. Often, it starts with a favour — a bit of money to tide you over — especially when traditional lenders turn people away. But it doesn’t take long for things to spiral.

❌ There’s usually no paperwork.
❌ Payments can grow unpredictably with added fees and interest.
❌ They may take valuables, bank cards, or passports.
❌ Threats, intimidation, and even violence can follow missed payments.

These illegal lenders exploit vulnerability. They know their victims may feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unable to turn to anyone else. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Four Years of Silence

According to Stop Loan Sharks, it takes an average of four years for someone to seek help after borrowing from an illegal lender. During this time, borrowers are not just facing financial strain — they’re experiencing emotional distress, shame, fear, and sometimes trauma.

In 2024, nearly half of all callers to the Stop Loan Sharks helpline also reported mental health issues — the highest level ever recorded. That’s not surprising. Living under constant financial and emotional pressure takes a heavy toll.

One borrower described their situation like this:

“If you are in a hole and I’ve got a ladder and you had to climb out, where would you see yourself on that ladder?”
“I can’t even see the ladder.”

Sheffield Credit Union: Part of the Solution

At Sheffield Credit Union, we offer a legal, supportive, and ethical alternative to borrowing from loan sharks. We believe in banking for the people, by the people, and we exist to help our community build better financial futures.

But we also know that getting out of an illegal loan isn’t just about switching to a better option. It’s about finding the courage to speak up — and having someone who listens without judgement.

What Happens When You Contact Stop Loan Sharks?

The Stop Loan Sharks team is available 24/7 — not a call centre, not a script, just real people ready to help.

You don’t have to be ready to take action straight away. Whether you want to share a bit of your story, ask a question, or just gather information — that’s completely okay. There’s no pressure and no judgement.

You can:

📞 Call the helpline on 0300 555 2222
💬 Text or WhatsApp 07860 022116
💻 Visit stoploansharks.co.uk for Live Chat or the reporting form
📩 Email reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk

You’ll be listened to, supported, and guided at your own pace. If you prefer to stay anonymous, that’s perfectly fine too.

Real Support. Real Relief.

Here are just a few things borrowers have said after contacting Stop Loan Sharks:

“It feels like a massive weight has been lifted.”
“You just understand and haven’t been judgemental.”
“The person on the hotline created an immediate bond with me.”
“After reporting, you came back really quickly which put my mind at rest.”

Let’s Build a Safer, Stronger Community

As part of Sheffield’s community, we believe in protecting one another. Whether it’s by sharing this campaign on social media, chatting with a friend who’s struggling, or choosing to bank ethically — we all have a role to play.

This Stop Loan Sharks Week, let’s raise awareness, speak up, and remind people that help is out there. If you or someone you know is being affected, encourage them to reach out.

🟢 There’s no shame.
🟢 There’s no pressure.
🟢 There’s a team ready to listen — whenever you’re ready.

Financial Wellbeing: The Hidden Mental Health Crisis We Need to Talk About

Its the start of Mental Health Awareness Week, it's time we acknowledge one of the most persistent yet often overlooked contributors to mental health struggles: financial stress. At Sheffield Credit Union, we see firsthand how money worries can weigh heavily on our members' wellbeing, creating a silent burden that many carry alone.

The Reality of Financial Stress

When we talk about mental health, conversations often centre around work pressures, relationship difficulties, or traumatic experiences. Yet for millions across the UK, financial worry is the constant companion that disturbs sleep, triggers anxiety, and clouds everyday joy.

Recent studies paint a concerning picture. Nearly 46% of UK adults report that money worries negatively impact their mental health, with many experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression directly related to financial struggles. These aren't just statistics—they're our neighbours, colleagues, friends, and perhaps even ourselves.

The relationship between financial difficulty and mental health works both ways. Financial problems can trigger or worsen mental health conditions, while mental health challenges can make managing money more difficult—creating a cycle that's challenging to break without support.

The Shame Barrier

Perhaps the most troubling aspect of financial stress is the shame that often accompanies it. In a society where financial success is celebrated and financial struggles are often judged, many people suffer in silence rather than reaching out for help.

"I felt like I'd failed," shares one of our members who wished to remain anonymous. "I couldn't sleep, couldn't eat properly, and started withdrawing from friends because I was embarrassed about not being able to afford the things they could. It took me months to realise that seeking help wasn't a sign of weakness, but of strength."

This reluctance to discuss money worries compounds the problem. Isolation breeds further stress, and without support, manageable financial challenges can grow into seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Breaking the Taboo

At Sheffield Credit Union, we believe that breaking down the taboo around financial difficulties is essential for community wellbeing. Just as we've made progress in normalising conversations around mental health, we need to create spaces where people can discuss money concerns without fear of judgement.

Financial wellbeing deserves the same attention and care as other aspects of our health. After all, our financial situation affects our housing, nutrition, access to healthcare, ability to socialise, and opportunities for rest and recreation—all fundamental components of overall wellbeing.

Community-Based Solutions

As a community-owned financial cooperative, Sheffield Credit Union takes a fundamentally different approach to financial services. We understand that behind every loan application or savings account is a person with unique circumstances and needs.

Our approach includes:

1. Accessible Financial Services

We offer fair and affordable alternatives to high-cost credit, helping members avoid the spiral of debt that often comes with payday loans and high-interest credit cards. Our loans are designed with realistic repayment terms, and we never use aggressive collection tactics that increase stress and anxiety.

2. Financial Education

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to managing money. We provide workshops, one-to-one guidance, and resources that help members understand budgeting, saving, and borrowing in ways that support their financial goals.

3. A Listening Ear

Sometimes, the most important thing we can offer is simply a non-judgemental space to talk. Our team is trained to listen compassionately and work collaboratively with members to find solutions that alleviate both financial and psychological pressure.

4. Community Connections

Financial difficulties rarely exist in isolation from other challenges. We maintain strong relationships with local mental health services, housing support, and benefit advisors to ensure our members can access holistic support when needed.

The Road Forward

Addressing the link between financial stress and mental health requires collective action. It means creating financial systems that serve people rather than profit, building communities where seeking help is normalised, and recognising that financial wellbeing is a crucial component of public health.

For individuals struggling with the dual burden of financial and mental health challenges, remember that reaching out is not admitting defeat—it's taking the first step toward regaining control.

At Sheffield Credit Union, we've seen countless members transform their relationship with money, moving from crisis to confidence with the right support. The journey isn't always straightforward, but it's one that no one should have to walk alone.

Your Financial Wellbeing Matters

As Mental Health Awareness Week continues, we invite you to reflect on your own financial wellbeing. Are money worries affecting your sleep, relationships, or overall happiness? If so, know that support is available, and you deserve to access it.

Sheffield Credit Union's door is always open—not just for transactions, but for conversations. We're committed to creating a community where financial wellbeing is prioritised, discussed openly, and supported compassionately.

Because when we remove the taboo from talking about money, we take a significant step toward better mental health for all.

Sheffield Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative serving the Sheffield community since 1994. We offer ethical savings and affordable loans to anyone who lives or works in our common bond.

Things to Do This Late May Bank Holiday in and Around Sheffield

The late May Bank Holiday (24–26 May 2025) is bursting with activities in Sheffield and the surrounding Peak District. Whether you’re seeking free events, family-friendly outings, or something unique, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan a memorable weekend.

1. Sheffield Food Festival (24–26 May, Peace Gardens)

One of the city’s flagship free events, the Sheffield Food Festival transforms the city centre into a vibrant celebration of local food, drink, and culture. Expect over 50 food stalls offering everything from Caribbean fusion to Turkish kebabs, plus craft drinks, artisan treats, and live music on the Mad Dog Stage. It’s family-friendly, with plenty of options for all ages and tastes.

2. Weston Park May Fayre (Sunday 18 May, 11am–5pm)

A week before the bank holiday, but worth mentioning, the free-to-attend Weston Park May Fayre is a highlight for families. Enjoy a fun fair, street performers, live music, food stalls, circus acts, and interactive activities. Last year, over 10,000 people attended, and this year promises even more entertainment, including comedy acts and quirky characters like Granny Turismo and Elton Wrong

3. Devonshire Green Festival (Saturday 17 May)

Another pre-bank holiday event, the Devonshire Green Festival, is a local favourite with live music, food, drink, and a welcoming community atmosphere. It’s a great way to soak up Sheffield’s creative spirit and enjoy outdoor festivities with the family.

4. Sheffield Chamber Music Festival (16–24 May)

For music lovers, the Sheffield Chamber Music Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary with a diverse programme at the Playhouse and Crucible Theatre. While some events are ticketed, there are often free pop-up performances and family-friendly workshops across the week

5. Pollen Inner City Flower Market (Sunday 18 May)

Held at Grey to Green, Castlegate, this monthly market celebrates Sheffield’s botanical side. Browse stalls selling plants, flowers, and gardening accessories, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Entry is free.

6. Animal Encounter (Sunday 18 May, Orchard Square)

Perfect for kids, this event lets little ones meet fascinating creatures such as giant snails, geckos, snakes, rabbits, and ferrets. Hosted in Sheffield Plate’s private event space, it promises an educational and fun morning out.

7. Craft & Makers Markets (Various Dates, Sheffield Cathedral)

Browse unique, handmade gifts and crafts at the Craft & Flea Makers Market (3 May) and Little Hummingbird Events Makers Market (10 May). Free entry and a chance to support local artists

8. Walks, Parks, and Nature (Free and Kid-Friendly)

Rivelin Valley Nature Trail: A scenic walk with stepping stones, waterfalls, and wildlife-perfect for families.

Endcliffe Park & Forge Dam: Enjoy a riverside walk, playgrounds, and picnic spots.

Norfolk Heritage Park: Expansive green space with play areas and city views.

Sheffield and its surroundings offer a rich mix of free, family-friendly, and unique experiences this late May Bank Holiday. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a great day out with the kids, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.