A Bedford-based member-owned community bank has recently completed a major transformation, with a more inclusive name and new online banking options.
Bedford Credit Union, which is based in St Paul’s Square, has officially rebranded as Bedfordshire Credit Union (BCU), a move following the recent expansion of its “common bond” boundary to help more people access ethical banking during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
The vital local financial lifeline provides an essential alternative to high-interest payday loans and loan sharks for people across the county.
Bridging the digital divide
As part of the modernisation, the credit union has launched a new website and mobile app for its customers.
Understanding that digital-first banking can often isolate vulnerable residents, BCU is running face-to-face support sessions and workshops.
Customers will be helped to download and navigate the new software, ensuring no one in the community is left behind in the digital age.
The updated branding features a modernised “nest-egg” logo, with four colours representing the credit union’s core local missions:
- Pink: Community, inclusivity, and the diversity of Bedfordshire
- Green: Financial inclusion through accessible savings and loan products
- Blue: Trust, responsibility to members, and ethical banking
- Orange: A warm welcome-to-all policy and a celebration of their hard-working local volunteers
‘Secure savings and affordable credit’
Katrina Allen, community engagement officer for BCU, explained how the changes directly address modern challenges facing local families.
“Over the past 18 months, BCU has reflected on its space in the Bedfordshire community and is working hard to maintain relevance in the modern world,” she said.
“This rebrand helps us to communicate our reach throughout Bedfordshire, but also, with our new website and app, helps those facing digital and financial exclusion to access secure savings and affordable credit in an increasingly digital world.”
Keeping it local
Anyone who lives or works in Bedfordshire can become a BCU member and start saving for just £5 a year.
In addition to fair credit options, a ‘PrizeSaver’ account, and a free Young Savers account to help local children build early financial literacy, members also get access to everyday cost-saving perks.
These include discounts at major supermarkets like Asda, Tesco, and Morrisons, offering additional help during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
Membership also grants half-price access to Share Bedford: Library of Things, a grassroots community initiative that allows residents to borrow household tools and equipment rather than buying them outright.
Read: Share Bedford’s ‘library of things’ is now open for business
You can find out more about the new services and upcoming digital support sessions at the newly launched website here.
