Fair and accessible finance means putting people and the planet first – making sure your money helps others, not just big businesses. 

When you choose a financial institution that puts people first, your money can help support your community. 

But what does “fair finance” actually mean? And why should it matter to you? 

What is fair finance? 

Some financial institutions focus more on profits than people. They may invest in businesses that harm the environment or take risks that don’t benefit the local community. That’s not how we think banking should work. 

Credit unions do things differently – supporting those around them and following fair practices along the way. 

It’s about doing some good by choosing where to place your money. It supports your community, helping those around you grow and become more financially stable. 

What are fair finance practices? 

Banking with care means your money can do more – for you and for others. 

• Your money helps others – savings are used to offer fair loans to fellow members, often when they need it most 
   
• You’re part of something local – funds stay in the community, supporting local projects and services that benefit everyone 
   
• You can trust where your money goes – fair financial services are more transparent about how funds are used, so you always know your money is making a positive impact 
   
• You’re treated fairly – financial institutions, like credit unions, prioritise responsible lending, fair interest rates and support when things get tough 
   
• You’re included – the services you’ll experience are often open and accessible, regardless of your background or financial situation

Why it matters where your money lives 

With traditional banks, where your money goes and which industries it supports aren’t always properly communicated. 

With a credit union? You can rely on your money staying closer to home where it can: 

• Support others – savings held help fund fair, affordable loans for other members 
• Support you – because credit unions are not-for-profit, any money made is reinvested into communities. You also often get a say in how the credit union is run because your voice matters 

Where your money lives really does matter. With a credit union, your money works for you and everyone around you, not some distant investors. 

A beacon for fair and accessible finance 

Beacon is more than just a place to save or borrow. We’re a people-first credit union, built by and for our members to offer fair, supportive financial services that put the community first. 

Our values drive us forward, enabling us to continue providing an ethical service for all our members. These values are to: 

• Keep promises 
• Work together 
• Always improve 
• Show kindness 

We invest time and resources into community-led initiatives that make a difference – sponsoring local sports teams, providing information at events and volunteering at the community cafe. 

Members have always been our inspiration. We adopted the name “Beacon” after our members described us as their “life savers.” It keeps us grounded and reminds us to always act as a beacon of support. 

Every decision we make is an opportunity to provide the best possible service and create a future where everyone thrives.  

In fact, we were recently awarded the FairLife Mark Certificate, a symbol of fair trading in finance. This accreditation reflects our commitment to ethical financial services and ensuring fairness and transparency for our members. 

We’re also partners with Just One Tree, a fantastic non-profit initiative making an impact in the fight against climate change. We sponsor planting a tree for every new member who joins us – our forest currently stands at over 290 trees! 

Make your money mean more 

When you become a credit union member, you’re not just making a financial decision that benefits you – you’re helping others build stronger, more financially stable lives. 

At Beacon, we’ll always put our members first. Offering fair, honest services is a core part of who we are – that will never change. 

Discover the power of fair finance. Get in touch today.