Just Credit Union has teamed up with Shropshire Rural Communities Charities to help more people in the county get on the road and into work.
SRCC's Wheels2Work scheme offers vehicle loans to those living in the county who are missing out on employment or training positions because of a lack of public transport. It provides scooters and electric bikes at an affordable weekly rate, giving its clients the chance to save for their own transport.
The partnership will offer more people the chance to join the scheme and receive support with their financial planning. Anyone interested in joining Wheels2Work who’s unable to pay the deposit and/or weekly fees can also apply for a low-rate loan through the credit union.
Sue Homden, who manages Wheels2Work, said: “As one of England’s most rural counties, people in Shropshire without transport options face a big challenge just getting to a job.
“Wheels2Work provides a two-wheeled option so that the lack of public transport isn’t a barrier, and by teaming up with Just Credit Union we want to remove further barriers that people could potentially face in accessing work or training opportunities.”
Steve Barras, Business Development Officer for Just Credit Union, said: “Shropshire RCC’s Wheels2Work scheme has been providing a valuable service to people across the county for several years and we are delighted to now be working very closely with them.
“As an ethical not for profit savings and loans co-operative we have clear joint interests with Shropshire RCC to improve the economic welfare of the people of Shropshire. We hope to build long-term relationships with the service’s clients and provide affordable loans when needed, as well as easy ways to save.”
Wheels2Work has been running for 23 years, and its success has resulted over 45 similar schemes being set up across England and Wales. For more information about Wheels2Work including how to apply, call 01743 237883.
Find out more about Wheels2work, go to
https://www.shropshire-rcc.org.uk/services/individuals/wheels-to-work
Find out more about loans for any purpose with Just Credit Union, go to
https://www.justcreditunion.org/products-and-services/loan-products