ABCUL Annual Conference 2024 Celebrates Credit Unions Turning 60

Thursday 21 March 2024

Last week, ABCUL Members returned to the Midland Hotel for its annual conference event. This year, the conference brought together over 250+ attendees who were welcomed by expert speakers within the financial movement in the form of plenary sessions, breakout sessions and young professional master class sessions. Each informative session provided content uniquely relevant to the needs of credit unions of all shapes and sizes.

“The ABCUL Board & Staff team would like to thank all delegates who made for a successful event,” said ABCUL President, Paul Norgrove. “For those that attended the weekend’s event and those that couldn’t make it, thank you for your continued support and commitment to ABCUL.”

On Friday evening, sponsored by The Co-operative Bank, the Association awarded Pioneer Awards to six individuals who were recognised for the efforts, contribution, and achievements they have made during their pivotal journeys in this movement. Congratulations to the following members of the Association, who we give enormous thanks to:

–              Eileen Halligan – Central Credit Union

–              Richard Munro – Commsave Credit Union.

–              Karen Bennett – Enterprise Credit Union

–              Jim Clancy – Metro Moneywise Credit Union

–              Liam Carlisle – Lewisham Plus Credit Union

–              Paul Treece – Lewisham Plus Credit Union

Following the Pioneer Awards, we also presented ABCUL’s annual awards which acknowledge members who have made a significant impact in the credit union movement. The Kirit Patel Award for outstanding contribution to an ABCUL Forum was presented to Don Kehoe of London Capital Credit Union, who has been a pivotal asset to the London and South of England forum.

The award for outstanding contribution of a young person in the credit union movement – The Tracy Slane Award – was presented to Luke McGilvray of 1st Class Credit Union. And the Dolores Beckford award was bestowed upon Ruksana Kauser of Calderdale Credit Union.

During day two, in conference tradition, the Credit Union Foundation gave opportunities for credit unions to celebrate the successes and achievements within the movement. The CU Futures class of 2024 graduated in front of the assembled delegates.

Special thanks are due to credit unions and supporters of the movement who continue to support the CU Futures programme. Many credit unions and supporters donated in support of the ongoing CU Futures programme as part of Saturday’s celebrations.

“On behalf of the entire Association and its wider membership, we would like to thank all our supporters, partners and sponsors for making the event a success,” added Paul Norgrove. “We would like to recognise CMutual for its continued support and sponsorship at the ABCUL Annual Conference 2024.”