VOLUNTEERS are being sought for a Credit Union collection point in Pantside, Newbridge, after the success of similar ventures around the area.
Islwyn Community Credit Union now runs seven collection points, allowing people to save their cash.
The latest opened at the former Palace Cinema in Risca yesterday, which is a replacement for a collection point which has operated in the area for the past couple of years.
The group hope the move will attract more members after their official launch yesterday.
Islwyn Community Credit Union's main office is at Wesley Road, Blackwood, which is open on Monday, Friday and Saturday mornings, while there are also collections at Markham Community House which is open on Wednesdays 11.15am to 12.15pm and Trinant Community Centre from 9.15am to 10.15am on Fridays.
Credit unions have proved a big hit in schools in the area. The first was set up at Markham Primary and after interest from some parents who wanted to encourage their children to save, one was established at Trinant Primary. A third is now in operation at Cefn Fforest Primary.
A team of children run the collection point every Friday at Trinant Primary under adult supervision.
Members of Islwyn's Credit Unions include MP Chris Evans, who is a vociferous supporter of them after condemning finance companies that he said take advantage of people’s inability to obtain credit by charging high interest rates.
Development worker Marie Walsh said: "Our motto is "Not for Profit. Not for Charity. But for Service." And it's about people helping people. Credit Unions are great for communities."
At Tuesday's re-launch of the Credit Union collection point in Risca, students from Coleg Gwent's fruit and veg co-op will also be present as they hope to extend their service from the college to people from all over Risca and Crosskeys.
The event is being funded by Islwyn Community Credit Union as part of the United Nations Year of Co-operatives, 2012.
Success of the collection points means that volunteers are now being sought for a collection point at Pantside, Newbridge.
To get involved or for information about the service, visit www.islwyncu.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here