Danny Thomas - Norwich Credit Union

Danny Thomas - Norwich Credit Union

I'm a Director and Volunteer at Norwich Credit Union and have been involved in the sector since 2012. My highlights are undoubtedly winning the Tracy Slane Award in 2016 and graduating as one of the inaugural CU Futures in 2017.

Why did you first get involved in credit unions? 

Back in 2012 I didn't know what a credit union was. I took my daughter to a play session at my local community centre and noticed a credit union poster in one of the rooms. I popped my head around the door and was greeted by Doreen, a legend who has been a credit union volunteer for decades; I liked what I heard and signed up. Shortly after, I was press-ganged into volunteering and the rest, as they say, is history.

 

Why did you choose to be part of the YPN Steering Committee? 

Because I was scared of saying no to Debbie Smith-Hands! I also think small, community credit unions can often be under-represented on a national level, so welcome opportunities to wave the flag for the volunteer-run organisations within our sector.

Why is the YPN important to you? 

It's vital for the future of our sector. Having a forum for young credit union professionals, and regular events for us to engage, will help retain the talent needed for adequate succession plans and a sustainable future for credit unions in the UK.

What advice would you give to people considering wanting to get involved in the YPN?

Go for it! Over the years through being involved in CU Futures, attending conference, ABCUL meetings and forums, I've met dozens of young people and have yet to come across a single bad apple, nor have I met anyone I couldn't learn something from. The bigger the network the more we'll all improve and the stronger the future of credit unions will be.