Credit Union Legacy of Former Lord Mayor in Faith-Friendly Savings Drive

Wednesday 8 October 2025

As part of the Bradford 2025 City of Culture celebrations, Bradford District Credit Union is renewing its call for Muslim residents to explore Faith-Friendly savings accounts – ethical savings that align with Islamic principles.

This campaign carries deep emotional significance. It honours the legacy of the late Cllr Abid Hussain, former Lord Mayor of Bradford, who was the first public figures to endorse BDCU’s Faith-Friendly services back in 2019. Cllr Hussain, a passionate advocate for financial inclusion, sadly passed away during the Covid pandemic. Now, his son, Cllr Mohsin Hussain, is proudly continuing his father’s work alongside Lord Mayor, Cllr Mohammed Shafiq.

On 11^th September, Cllr Shafiq, Cllr Hussain and the Imam of Madni Jamia Masjid on Thornbury Road joined the Credit Union at a special event hosted at the mosque. The event aims to encourage Muslim families to consider savings options that avoid interest and instead offer dividend, an approach that respects Islamic financial values.

In a heartfelt tribute, Cllr Mohsin Hussain reflected on his father’s vision and the impact he had on making financial services more inclusive for Bradford’s Muslim community.

BDCU has grown significantly, welcoming over 1,000 new members last year and now serving more than 11,000 people across Kirklees, Bradford and Craven. The Credit Union was recently named ‘Lender of the Year’ at the Yorkshire Financial Awards for its innovative project helping residents build their credit scores and improve financial wellbeing.

Lord Mayor Cllr Shafiq said: “Bradford District Credit Union has always supported our city’s diverse communities. Their Faith-Friendly accounts offer a safe and ethical way for Muslim residents to save. I’m proud to support this initiative and honour the legacy of Cllr Abid Hussain.”

Cllr Mohsin Hussain added: “My father believed deeply in financial inclusion and worked tirelessly to ensure the Muslim community felt welcomed and represented. It’s an honour to continue his legacy and help others benefit from the services he championed.”

Ian Brewer, spokesperson for the Credit Union, shared his appreciation: “We’re humbled by the continued support from the community. This initiative reflects our mission to serve everyone in Bradford with respect, dignity, and understanding.”

This event marks a powerful moment of unity, remembrance, and progress. As Bradford celebrates its year as the UK City of Culture, this initiative highlights the city’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and shared values.