Merseyside-based Enterprise Credit Union (ECU) has celebrated its 30th anniversary with a special gala event where past and present staff reflected on its service to the community.
ECU has grown from its origins in a small local church to serve over 19,500 members across Liverpool, Knowsley and St Helens – and is one of the most successful credit unions in the country.
In her speech, chief executive Karen Bennett said she had witnessed huge growth in her time at ECU – and announced a significant milestone in lending to its members, which now totals £100m over its 30 years of service to the community.
She also noted how 2017 was a record-breaking year for the credit union, which saw its lending reach over £20 million in just twelve months.
The event also marked a milestone for Karen, who is now in her 20th year with ECU. She reflected on the growth of the credit union during her time as a member of staff.
“I can’t thank enough everyone who’s played a part in getting us this far,” she said. “We’ve passed some outstanding milestones since 1988. Thirty years, six branches, £100m issued so far and 28 staff members later, we’re all beaming with pride at how far we’ve come.
“Being part of the credit union movement has always meant more to me than a job. I like to think I’m just one of many people helping others all across the UK, and the world.”
The event also included a screening of a special video, which can be viewed online, created to celebrate ECU’s 30 year history and its impact on the communities it serves.