Better than the bank.

Who are we?

Central Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial cooperative dedicated to helping people across Merseyside and beyond manage their money with confidence. Owned by our members, we offer fair, safe and affordable financial services like savings and loans to support your financial wellbeing.

We’re on a mission to break down misconceptions about credit unions and highlight their role in promoting financial inclusion and resilience. By providing education on how credit unions work and highlighting the benefits of membership, we empower individuals to take control of their finances and reduce the risk of individuals falling victim to illegal money lenders.

  • People helping people

    That’s our guiding principle. We don’t stop at fair savings and loans; we also support our members and the wider community in everyday ways. Like helping someone consolidate debts or set up a holiday fund.

  • Owned by you

    When you join, you become an owner. You can borrow at competitive rates and earn a yearly dividend on your savings (known as ‘shares’). Plus, every penny you save helps other members who might need a hand.

  • Who can join?

    If you live, work or study in the Liverpool City Region, West Lancashire, Wigan, Warrington, Chester, or Cheshire West, you’re welcome here. It’s a simple way to invest in your finances and give back to the local community at the same time.

    Become a member

Do you have a question? You might find the answer in our FAQs.

Visit our FAQs

Our story

Born from humble beginnings and the dream of Eileen Halligan Snr, Central Credit Union was established on 28 February 1989.

Eileen Snr was passionate about social justice and believed in the goodness of all people. She dreamed of changing the world, a value she passed on to her children. With a vision to establish a credit union, she persuaded her eldest daughter, Eileen Halligan Jnr, to develop one, rooted in inclusivity, support and a deep belief in empowerment and community solidarity.

These two founding members might never have imagined the success the credit union would achieve. The rest, as they say, is history.

Uncover our history

“My greatest hope is to leave a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and community impact. I hope to be remembered as someone who tirelessly championed the cause of financial inclusion and social justice, leaving behind a credit union that continues to serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for future generations. My ultimate legacy would be a world where everyone has equal access to financial resources and opportunities, regardless of background or circumstances. Where no one is left behind because of a lack of economic stability and where people can flourish with the help of credit unions. I am my mother’s daughter, after all.” 

– Eileen Halligan Jnr

Mission Statement

We believe in people over profit. Our mission is to provide a safe place for our members to save, borrow responsibly, and access financial support without the high costs of mainstream lenders. By reinvesting in our community, we empower people to take control of their financial future while strengthening the local economy.

Our Values

  • Integrity

    We conduct our business activities using high standards of ethics and integrity. As a result, honesty guides our work in all circumstances, with all people.

  • Service

    Our actions positively reflect our deep concern and commitment to the wellbeing of current and potential members. The Credit Union helps to fulfil members’ financial needs through our commitment to provide high-quality products and services at competitive prices.

  • Enthusiasm

    We will continually show enthusiasm and a positive attitude to those we serve and to those we work with.

  • Professionalism

    We will be competent, responsive, dependable and dedicated.

  • Sensitivity

    Every member will be treated with dignity, sensitivity and compassion. We will promote relationships based on mutual trust and respect with members, volunteers, other service providers and the community. We will practice the philosophy of co-operation and mutual benefit expressed through people working together to achieve a better quality of life.

Join us today!

Becoming a Central Credit Union member means more than just opening an account. It means joining a movement that prioritises financial inclusion, ethical banking, and community empowerment.

  • We’re community-focused, run by members for members. We keep money within our local community.
  • We provide fair and affordable finance with no hidden fees or high-interest payday loans.
  • We provide support when you need it. We offer guidance and financial education to help you make informed choices.

Become a member