As we continue to tighten our belts, we are constantly bombarded with noisy adverts for questionable payday lenders.

When you’re struggling, it can be a minefield to sort out personal finances.

So it is refreshing that the localised, face-to-face service available from Blackbird Leys Credit Union could be opened up to people across Oxford.

Such organisations have often formed a financial bedrock for communities – supplying secure, ethical and cheap ways to save cash for a rainy day – and helping people in desperate need avoid the clutches of loan sharks. Let’s hope the union will continue to go from strength to strength.