At The Co-op Credit Union, we’re committed to continually improving the services we provide to you, our members. That’s why we regularly hold member forums to gather your input and feedback on the things that matter most to you.
In our latest forum, held on 10th October 2024, we connected with 13 members who generously gave their time to share their perspectives, ask questions, and help shape the future direction of our credit union.
This time, we also introduced some early visuals and ideas for an exciting new brand identity for the credit union currently in development, giving members a first look at how we’re evolving to better serve you.
During the discussion, we covered everything from improving day-to-day member services, reflecting on our current products and how well they are working for you, to looking ahead to what our new brand will look and feel like.
Here’s a look at some of the key insights from the session:
New brand identity: a look behind the scenes
We gave members a ‘sneak peek’ into an exciting new brand identity we’re currently developing for the credit union. We shared some visuals and early concepts of the refreshed look and feel, as we wanted members to be among the first to see what’s coming and to hear their thoughts on the new look.
Our goal with this re-brand is to make our mission even clearer and our services even more accessible and appealing to more people, while reflecting the values that have always set us apart – fairness, co-operation, and putting members first.
The reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with members expressing excitement about the modern, fresh direction.
One point which members made particularly strongly was a desire for authenticity in the photography we use. One member suggested, “Maybe you could ask some members who’d be willing to appear in photos… show real people doing real things!” Another member added, “It gives more realness to use the people that actually use your service.”
We think that’s a great idea! We would love to hear from members who would be willing to take part in a photo session later this year in Manchester. Please do get in touch if you would like to be part of this.
Watch this space for more updates on the brand in the coming months. In the meantime, all the feedback is being fed into the project to ensure our new brand identity develops in a way that resonates with those who matter most.
Savings products: strong support for Saver Plus
Members fed back positively on our newly launched 5% interest (variable) Saver Plus account, following on from the popularity of the Silver Saver in our last financial year. Members welcomed this addition, seeing it as a helpful tool to encourage saving with the credit union.
One member told us, “Silver Saver was a good product and I’m glad that it’s really rolling forward with Saver Plus.” Another member added, “The regular saver with a fixed interest rate is just the kind of product I look for. When the Silver Saver continued, I thought, ‘Yes, that’s what I need!’ So I’m pleased to put my extra savings into it, knowing it’s with the credit union.”
Loan products: support for flexibility in tough times
Our loan options also received strong support, especially for the flexibility they offer during financially challenging times. Hearing members’ stories about how these loans have provided a safety net was a great reminder of why we’re here – to offer a helping hand when it’s needed most.
Supporting financial wellbeing
It was clear from discussions how important financial wellbeing is to our members. From new savings options to tools and support for managing money, we’re always looking for ways to help members take control of their finances. Hearing how members have benefitted from these services and discussing further ideas reinforced our commitment to growing this area.
Our commitment to ongoing improvement
We’re always looking for ways to make our credit union better for you. From exploring ideas for additional products and services to hearing your feedback on how we communicate, this forum left us with plenty of valuable insights to guide us in the months to come. We’re excited to continue building on these ideas and sharing our progress along the way.
Thank you for helping shape our future! A huge thank you to everyone who attended the forum and shared their thoughts. For those unable to take part, know that we’re listening – and there will be more opportunities to get involved. Your voice matters, and it’s shaping the future of The Co-op Credit Union.
