New NACUW Report out in July

A new NACUW report researched jointly with the new economics foundation was launched by a Welsh Assembly Government Minister during the conference to mark life and works of Robert Owen, founder of the co-operative movement.

Micro-businesses and the self-employed form a large and crucial part of the UK economy. They make a major contribution to the vitality of local economies and to their communities and to culture. Very often, they define the character of a place. They provide the small shops, services, crafts that are the economic life blood of local communities across the UK. Their dealings with each other give life to an urban neighbourhood or a rural village. Community life is unthinkable without their contribution. They are also a crucial sector of our credit union membership.

Our research shows this sector needs better support and access to financial services. It proposes a mutual model to provide this, and sees credit unions having a beneficial role to play in this valuable market.

In 2003 NACUW undertook research with nef and the National Consumer Council into the needs of financially excluded people. Our report and lobbying helped change credit union legislation, set up the Growth Fund, and lever in significant investment into servicing the financial needs of this sector. Our new research is focused on another important market.

The launch of the report will also formed part of an exciting Seminar which was sponsored by the Economic and Social Research Council.

Best Wishes

Brian Geary
NACUW Chair