Credit unions
Credit Unions offer a number of accounts including savings, loans, current accounts and some will allow "jam-jar" account allowing you to separate your money in to separate "pots" to help you manage your money. You can find out more about the jam jar approach by clicking here.
What is a credit union?
A credit union is a financial co-operative which provides savings, loans and a range of services to its members. It is owned and controlled by the members. You may find it easier to open a current account with a Credit Union if you have a poor credit rating.
Each member has one vote and volunteer directors are elected from the membership, by the membership.
Credit unions are owned by the people who use their services, and not by external shareholders or investors. So the emphasis is always on providing the best service to members - not maximising profits.