Christmas is undoubtedly a magical time of year and there is nothing better than seeing a loved one’s face on Christmas morning as they tear open their presents. However as we hit the shops this year it is crucial that we all remember to not get carried away and to ensure that we only spend what we can afford.
Christmas is a time of enormous financial pressure for many people and it is easy to understand why so many throw caution to the wind with regards their finances at this time of year. Not wanting to disappoint young children who do not understand that the presents left by Santa cost mum and dad dearly. However, we must bear in mind that each year too many families throughout Wales are forced into debt to fund Christmas.
Last week I met up with Cambrian Credit Union, formerly North Wales Credit Union, which offers savings and loans to people who live or work in the counties of Anglesey, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flint, Gwynedd, Powys and Wrexham.
Like myself, they are keen that people don’t get into debt this Christmas and want to make people aware of the services they provide.
Many people don’t realise that credit unions are there for everyone and enable people to borrow from as little as £50 for an emergency through to £15,000, guaranteeing no hidden fees or penalties for early repayments.
They can also help people to save money and their ‘Easy As ABC Savings’ scheme is perfect for this time of year, providing all Cambrian Credit Union members with discounts from hundreds of well-known brands and retailers.
The scheme is available at www.EasyAsABCsavings.com and enables people to redeem discounts online, via printed vouchers, by phone, by cashback functionality and/or via short term “hot” deals.
It also provides the opportunity for the local high street to create their own offers and has a community section to advertise local events.
The website is fully secure, data compliant and enabled to transact online payments (your credit/debit card details are never stored). Updates to offers and discounts are automatically emailed to you and new offers, brands, retailers and discounts are added on an hourly basis – shopping couldn’t be easier and it will be more enjoyable knowing you have bagged a bargain.
So remember, shop wisely this Christmas and take advantage of the discounts on offer, like those provided by the ‘Easy As ABC Savings’ scheme. It really is the thought that counts and not the value of the gift.
Christmas is a time of giving, but you with credit card bills and loans you can’t afford.
For further information about Cambrian Credit Union and information on how they can help you avoid getting into debt this Christmas visit www.cambriancu.com or call 0333 2000 601.