Those festive ads have you reaching for the tissues – and your wallet? Here’s what’s really driving us to splash out, and how to make sure your money goes on what matters this year.
News & Blog
Get the latest news, product and service announcements from London Mutual, along with our Money Gym financial education blogs.
Wanted: Real Londoners (not stock photo models) for credit union photo project
We’re working with a professional photographer to capture the authentic face of London Mutual Credit Union – our members and the places that matter to them.
Could you be missing out on £3,900? What you need to know about winter fuel payments and pension credit
Important changes are coming to winter fuel payments this year – but thousands of pensioners could also be missing out on other benefits worth thousands of pounds. Here’s what you need to know about pension credit and why it’s worth checking if you qualify.
Worrying about money this Christmas? Use our free calculator to give yourself a money MOT
As winter bills start landing and Christmas approaches, take ten minutes to check if you’re getting all the help you’re entitled to. Our free calculator helps you discover unclaimed benefits, reduced-rate tariffs and support you might be missing.
Average UK Christmas spending 2024: What we really spend (and why we lie about it)
Ever agreed not to do presents, then panic-bought them anyway? As UK Christmas spending hits £660-£1,150 per household, we look at the real cost of creating festive magic – and how to do it without the January regrets
Buy it for life: when buying sensible gets silly
From £35 designer potato peelers to ‘heirloom’ saucepans, social media is obsessed with luxury versions of everyday items. But as Black Friday approaches, has sensible shopping gone too far? We investigate a trend that’s turning every purchase into a lifetime commitment…
Life in plastic? Not so fantastic: why your Christmas deserves better than unplanned credit card borrowing
Thinking of putting Christmas on plastic? Before you swipe that credit card, here’s why a credit union Christmas loan could be a better option
Getting ready for the UK digital immigration switch
The UK is switching from physical immigration documents to digital eVisas in 2024. Find out what’s changing, how it affects you, and what you need to do next.
Having better money conversations when times are tough
As household budgets face mounting pressure, many of us are finding money conversations increasingly difficult. This Talk Money Week, we look at why opening up about finances matters – even when it feels impossible.
Calculator and Other New Tools Now Available for Members Under Financial Pressure
We’re trialling a new service to support members facing financial challenges. Whether you’re dealing with rising living costs or changes in income, our new tools and one-to-one guidance can help you stay in control.
Tips for Buying Your First Home
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but understanding the key steps can make the process smoother. From managing your finances and securing a deposit to navigating mortgage options, here’s a simple guide to help you start your home-buying journey with confidence.
The 5 Best Supermarket Deals on School Uniforms This Year (Plus 9 Money-Saving Tips!)
Shopping for school uniforms can get expensive, but we’ve done the homework for you. This year, supermarkets like Asda, Tesco, and Aldi offer unbeatable deals, with full uniform sets starting as low as £5! Read our guide to discover the best supermarket bargains, plus 9 expert tips to help you save even more on back-to-school essentials.
What the Move to Universal Credit Means for You: A Guide for Southwark Residents
Changes are coming for people in Southwark who receive certain benefits. If you are on a low income, this could affect you. Find out what Universal Credit is, how it works, and what you need to do when your benefits are replaced.
Impersonation Scams: Everything You Need to Know
Here at London Mutual Credit Union, we are all about keeping your hard-earned money safe and secure. Lately, we have noticed a rise in crafty impersonation scams aimed at people like you. But don't worry—by the time you finish reading this, you will be armed with the...
Changes to Peckham Branch Opening Hours
Our Heaton Road (Peckham) branch will be open 3 days per week from July. Here’s everything you need to know.
Shattering Fake WhatsApp Job Scam.
Beware of latest WhatsApp scam, cleverly designed to lure unknowing victims into a financial nightmare.
Romance scams: Swipe Left For Scammers
Online dating sites can be a place for finding love, but watch out for sneaky scammers trying to pull a fast one!
Tips for Smashing Your Financial Goals in 2024
Want to achieve those financial goals for the new year? We’ve got your back with tips to make those resolutions happen and make them stick!
Economic Abuse is More Common Than You Think. Here’s How to Spot the Signs.
Nearly 2 in 5 adults have experienced economic abuse from a partner. This International Economic Abuse Awareness Day, we think it’s time to talk about it, and the support available to victims and survivors.
London Mutual’s Black Friday Survival Guide
It’s important to remember that even during the chaos of Black Friday, you still have rights as a consumer.
Plan Ahead for Christmas with London Mutual Credit Union
If you choose to borrow this Christmas, a credit union personal loan can be a great option. Here’s everything you need to know about applying.
3 Types of Scary Scams Giving us Goosebumps this Halloween
The internet can be a wild place, filled with monsters waiting to take your money out of your pockets.
Are ‘Vampire Payments’ draining your finances this Halloween?
There are tales of monsters that hide within the shadows—but there’s one creature that haunts you bank statements and drains your wallet.
Celebrating Local Heroes this Black History Month
This Black History month we’re sharing overlooked stories of local people whose courage, ingenuity and hard work have changed our communities for the better.
Could you be missing out on £3,900? What you need to know about winter fuel payments and pension credit
Important changes are coming to winter fuel payments this year – but thousands of pensioners could also be missing out on other benefits worth thousands of pounds. Here’s what you need to know about pension credit and why it’s worth checking if you qualify.
Getting ready for the UK digital immigration switch
The UK is switching from physical immigration documents to digital eVisas in 2024. Find out what’s changing, how it affects you, and what you need to do next.
Having better money conversations when times are tough
As household budgets face mounting pressure, many of us are finding money conversations increasingly difficult. This Talk Money Week, we look at why opening up about finances matters – even when it feels impossible.
The 5 Best Supermarket Deals on School Uniforms This Year (Plus 9 Money-Saving Tips!)
Shopping for school uniforms can get expensive, but we’ve done the homework for you. This year, supermarkets like Asda, Tesco, and Aldi offer unbeatable deals, with full uniform sets starting as low as £5! Read our guide to discover the best supermarket bargains, plus 9 expert tips to help you save even more on back-to-school essentials.
Impersonation Scams: Everything You Need to Know
Here at London Mutual Credit Union, we are all about keeping your hard-earned money safe and secure. Lately, we have noticed a rise in crafty impersonation scams aimed at people like you. But don't worry—by the time you finish reading this, you will be armed with the...
Shattering Fake WhatsApp Job Scam.
Beware of latest WhatsApp scam, cleverly designed to lure unknowing victims into a financial nightmare.
Tips for Smashing Your Financial Goals in 2024
Want to achieve those financial goals for the new year? We’ve got your back with tips to make those resolutions happen and make them stick!
3 Types of Scary Scams Giving us Goosebumps this Halloween
The internet can be a wild place, filled with monsters waiting to take your money out of your pockets.
Guide to Surviving Back To School Uniforms Shopping
It’s that time of the year again! Here’s our round-up of top tips to keep your child and wallet both happy and ready for the start of the new school term.
Unmasking Loan Sharks: The Unexpected Faces of Financial Predators
Loan sharks are not always menacing villains lurking in dark alleyways. In fact, new research shows that illegal money lenders are more likely to be an acquaintance or colleagues.
What the Premier League Can Teach Us About Money Management
Watching how football managers have handled this year’s title race can teach us a surprising amount about managing our own finances…
Stop Paying for Services You Don’t Use: The Ultimate Guide to Managing Subscriptions
Cutting back on unneeded subscriptions is a great example of a quick money-saving win.
Slash Your Phone Bill: Saving Tips for Phone Contracts
If your phone bill’s burning a hole in your wallet, check out our tips and tricks.
Making a Budget & the Cost of Living
With the cost of living rising, managing your money is harder than ever. Here’s why making a budget should be your go-to money tool.
What you need to know about your credit history
We often get asked about Credit Scores and Credit History. There seem to be lots of myths and misconceptions around the topic, so let’s clear them up…
Our Guide to Buying a Car
Whether you’re looking for something new and swanky, or something more green, it’s good to know your buying options, and the different ways to pay or spread the cost.
Your Mind and Your Money: how they affect each other
The link between your mind and your money. Key takeaways from our Money Masterclass with Dr Sallyanne Decker, helping you to understand your money mindset.
Monika’s top money-saving holiday hacks
Our in house travel expert, Monika Rok, has put together a list of her best tips and tricks for saving money while planning, booking and going on your holidays.
Are you Being Paid Enough?
Many people won’t realise that they’re being underpaid by their employer, especially if they earn the minimum wage or living wage. Are you being paid enough…?
5 Money-Saving Home Improvements
Reduce your monthly costs with these financially-savvy home improvements that are rented home friendly!
Avoiding the Minimum Payment Trap
Get yourself off of the debt treadmill this year by avoiding the minimum repayment trap.
How to go debt-free in 2022…
Do you want to become debt free in 2022? If you do, then here are our need to knows on Consolidation Loans
New Years Resolutions to Keep Your Pockets Happy
Our tips and ideas to help you with your money and savings New Years Resolutions.
Budget-Friendly Things to do in London this Christmas
Our top picks of things to do in London this winter…
Calculator and Other New Tools Now Available for Members Under Financial Pressure
We’re trialling a new service to support members facing financial challenges. Whether you’re dealing with rising living costs or changes in income, our new tools and one-to-one guidance can help you stay in control.
Plan Ahead for Christmas with London Mutual Credit Union
If you choose to borrow this Christmas, a credit union personal loan can be a great option. Here’s everything you need to know about applying.
Launching our Family Days Out Giveaway
Get ready to make the most of summer with your little ones with our ‘Family Days Out Giveaway,’ prize draw
Unmasking Loan Sharks: The Unexpected Faces of Financial Predators
Loan sharks are not always menacing villains lurking in dark alleyways. In fact, new research shows that illegal money lenders are more likely to be an acquaintance or colleagues.
Launch of London Mutual Credit Union Mortgages
London Mutual Credit Union has become the first UK credit union in 25 years to be authorised to offer mortgages.
Why Credit Unions Beat Other Types of Lenders
Five reasons why borrowing from a credit union beats other types of lenders when it comes to applying for a loan.
Loan Decisions Taken by People, not Robots
At London Mutual, lending decisions are made by real people, not an automated process.
2022 Christmas Loans Information
If you’re looking to spread the cost of gifts or treating loved ones, a credit union loan could be an option. If so, here’s what you need to know.
London Mutual Responds to the Death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
All of us at London Mutual Credit Union wish to express our sadness upon hearing of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
London Mutual featured in University of Bristol’s guide to Credit Unions and Gambling
We were recently featured in “Credit unions and gambling: A practical guide to support members.” We got the chance to discuss how we deal with gambling cases and some of the outcomes we have seen.
London Mutual Announces Partnership with Transport for London
London Mutual Credit Union has partnered with Transport for London to offer membership to anyone directly employed by TfL in Greater London. We're excited to be teaming up with a globally-recognised London brand, and couldn't be happier to welcome TfL as our newest...
Report Reveals Over a Million People In Debt to Illegal Loan Sharks
According to a new report, over a million people in the UK are in debt to loan sharks. Here’s the story of Kim, who was trapped by an illegal lender. Guest post by the UK Illegal Money Lending Team.
Introducing Pay by Bank
Our new tool Pay by Bank is our quickest method of transferring funds from your bank account to your credit union account.
Our Brixton Branch is Closing
We have made the hard decision permanently close our branch in Brixton. The good news is that there are other ways to manage your account and get support
Warning over loan sharks causing new year misery for families
Guest blog written by an expert from Stop Loan Sharks, addressing the ever relevant issue of illegal lenders.
We’re turning 40 this year… here are our plans!
London Mutual Credit Union’s plans for 2022. Celebrating our 40th year by giving back to our community, members and staff.
2021 Christmas Loans Deadline information
This year’s Christmas Loan Deadline is 10 December. Here’s everything you need to know.
No Harm in Asking: You Can Now Apply For Our Loans Risk-Free
From this week, you’ll be able to apply for all our loan products without putting your credit score at risk if we can’t say ‘yes’.
London Mutual Goes Live With Faster Payments in Credit Union First
London Mutual has become the first UK credit union to fully integrate with the faster payments system, in a collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and NatWest Bank
London Mutual Achieves Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award
London Mutual has achieved the Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award in the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
Move Money in Minutes with Online Banking
Good news—online banking payments and transfers now happen in real-time, 24-7.
London Mutual Credit Union on Shortlist for Innovation Awards
Two of London Mutual’s products have been shortlisted for awards which recognise innovation in financial services
Talk Ban Stop. Why London Mutual is working with GamCare
GamCare is the leading UK provider of free information, advice and support for anyone harmed by gambling. Read on to find out why we are working with them.
London Mutual’s support for at-risk gamblers cited as an example of best practice
London Mutual Credit Union has been featured in a new toolkit produced by gambling support charity, GamCare.
Could you be missing out on £3,900? What you need to know about winter fuel payments and pension credit
Important changes are coming to winter fuel payments this year – but thousands of pensioners could also be missing out on other benefits worth thousands of pounds. Here’s what you need to know about pension credit and why it’s worth checking if you qualify.
Calculator and Other New Tools Now Available for Members Under Financial Pressure
We’re trialling a new service to support members facing financial challenges. Whether you’re dealing with rising living costs or changes in income, our new tools and one-to-one guidance can help you stay in control.
Changes to Peckham Branch Opening Hours
Our Heaton Road (Peckham) branch will be open 3 days per week from July. Here’s everything you need to know.
Shattering Fake WhatsApp Job Scam.
Beware of latest WhatsApp scam, cleverly designed to lure unknowing victims into a financial nightmare.
Romance scams: Swipe Left For Scammers
Online dating sites can be a place for finding love, but watch out for sneaky scammers trying to pull a fast one!
Celebrating Local Heroes this Black History Month
This Black History month we’re sharing overlooked stories of local people whose courage, ingenuity and hard work have changed our communities for the better.
Support Alessandro’s Half Marathon for Cancer Research UK
We’ll be cheering on our colleague Alessandro this weekend as he takes on the Big Half to support Cancer Research UK.
Beyond Banking: Credit Unions’ Co-operative Connection
Credit unions operate differently than the traditional high street banks you may encounter. Our focus is on the community, as we are run based on a co-operative model.
Unmasking Loan Sharks: The Unexpected Faces of Financial Predators
Loan sharks are not always menacing villains lurking in dark alleyways. In fact, new research shows that illegal money lenders are more likely to be an acquaintance or colleagues.
2022 Christmas Loans Information
If you’re looking to spread the cost of gifts or treating loved ones, a credit union loan could be an option. If so, here’s what you need to know.
London Mutual Responds to the Death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
All of us at London Mutual Credit Union wish to express our sadness upon hearing of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
London Mutual featured in University of Bristol’s guide to Credit Unions and Gambling
We were recently featured in “Credit unions and gambling: A practical guide to support members.” We got the chance to discuss how we deal with gambling cases and some of the outcomes we have seen.
Five Reasons to Join a Credit Union
From fair banking to lower rates, these are 5 reasons why we think you should join your local credit union.
Report Reveals Over a Million People In Debt to Illegal Loan Sharks
According to a new report, over a million people in the UK are in debt to loan sharks. Here’s the story of Kim, who was trapped by an illegal lender. Guest post by the UK Illegal Money Lending Team.
Lambeth: Ways to cut your Energy Bills & Become Greener
Lambeth Council has introduced a set of projects, incentives and Government help to encourage more sustainable habits.
5 Money-Saving Home Improvements
Reduce your monthly costs with these financially-savvy home improvements that are rented home friendly!
Our Brixton Branch is Closing
We have made the hard decision permanently close our branch in Brixton. The good news is that there are other ways to manage your account and get support
Warning over loan sharks causing new year misery for families
Guest blog written by an expert from Stop Loan Sharks, addressing the ever relevant issue of illegal lenders.
Important: Current Phone Scams
Fraudsters are pretending to be your local bank or credit union in order to steal your card details. Here’s how to spot the scam and stay safe.
We’re turning 40 this year… here are our plans!
London Mutual Credit Union’s plans for 2022. Celebrating our 40th year by giving back to our community, members and staff.
What to do now the Xmas Loan Deadline has Passed
Our Christmas loans deadline (December 10th) has now passed. But not to worry! You can still apply for a loan with us online or in branch
Make this Christmas Magical with LMCU
A magical Christmas doesn’t have to be an expensive Christmas. Find out more about our Christmas Loans and Family Saver Loans.
Put Loan Sharks on the Naughty list this Christmas
Loans Sharks know that this is an expensive time of year and may target those who are most likely to want to borrow…
2021 Christmas Loans Deadline information
This year’s Christmas Loan Deadline is 10 December. Here’s everything you need to know.