Cardiff credit union advocate made Volunteer of the year
Dedicated Ann Riddick has been named Volunteer of the Year by the Credit Unions of Wales for running a collection point for local residents in Fairwater, Cardiff.
Over the years she has encouraged more than 40 people to become credit union members and has helped them apply for approved loans valued at over £20,000.
And despite recently suffering a stroke, her main concern was how the local collection point would be run during her period of recovery.
Ann said” Receiving this award means the world to me because I’ve always believed in the benefits of credit union membership and encourage as many people as I can to sign up.
“The range of easy saving schemes and affordable, manageable loan puts credit unions head and shoulders above a high street banks. That’s why I wish more people would realise the benefits of becoming a member and applying an active role in its development at a time with the cost-of-living crisis will affect each and every one of us.”
Ann is an original member of the team at St Peters Church when the collection point was first established in 2014 and has been an asset to Fairwater residents.
During summer holidays she asks other members to bring in their children or grandchildren to the collection points and teaches them about the benefits of credit union membership.
Leanne Herberg, Chief Executive of Cardiff & Vale Credit Union said: “Ann is a true inspiration for the Fairwater community and aspiring volunteers. Her dedication to return to her collection point immediately after her stroke is incredible commitment.
Robert Kelly, Chief Executive of ABCUL and on behalf of the ABCUL Welsh Forum who sponsored this category said: “The Credit Unions of Wales Awards illustrate the commitment and dedication of businesses, workers, organisations, members and volunteers towards the global credit union movement.
“Congratulations to Ann for all that she does to further the incredible work of ethical savings and loan providers across Wales.”
The Welsh Government’s Minister for Social Justice Jane Hutt said: “Credit unions offer an ethical and affordable way of saving and borrowing for us all. They are a way we can contribute as a community to support those who are experiencing hardship, debt and poverty. This is more important than ever in light of the current cost-of-living crisis.
“We can all help underpin this ethical borrowing and saving service for those who need it as an alternative to payday loans.
“I believe that together we can make a huge difference to the financial wellbeing of people across our nation.
“Congratulations to all of the winners for all they do to further the incredible work of ethical savings and loan providers across Wales.”
Tom Owens, Manager of Progress Systems Ltd who sponsored the awards said: ““The Credit Unions of Wales Awards illustrate the commitment and dedication of businesses, workers, organisations, members and volunteers towards the global credit union movement.
“It shows how credit unions are building communities and helping people manage their finances for a better future.
Due to the ongoing support of Welsh Government, the Credit Unions of Wales Awards took place at The Pierhead on Cardiff Bay before an audience of almost 100 guests.
There were eight categories with a winner and highly commended named for each. The awards were presented by BBC broadcaster Roy Noble OBE.
The Credit Unions of Wales Awards took place on International Credit Union Day (Thursday 20 October).