West Country Savings and Loans Bids Farewell to Jackie Simpson After 20 Years of Service

Friday 28 March 2025

After two decades of dedicated service, Jackie Simpson is set to retire from West Country Savings and Loans, marking the end of an era for the credit union she helped build from its early foundations.

Jackie joined the credit union in 2004 as a development worker when it had just 30 members and operated from a modest office space provided by the YMCA in Weston-super-Mare. Over the years, her unwavering commitment, vision, and determination played a pivotal role in transforming the credit union into a vital financial institution, now serving over 3,400 members across North Somerset and beyond.

Under her leadership, West Country Savings and Loans secured crucial funding from various sources, including the North Somerset Council’s Single Regeneration Grant and the Department for Work and Pensions Growth Fund. These milestones enabled the credit union to expand its services, extend its common bond, and establish a permanent office in Orchard Street in 2008.

Reflecting on Jackie’s immense contribution, current CEO Steve Thorrington expressed his gratitude: “Jackie has been the heart and soul of West Country Savings and Loans for the past 20 years. Her dedication and passion for credit unions have been instrumental in shaping our organisation into what it is today. She has not only built a strong and sustainable credit union but has also supported countless individuals in accessing fair and ethical financial services. On behalf of the entire team, I want to thank Jackie for her incredible service and wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement.”

Jackie’s journey has been one of continuous growth and adaptation. From spearheading new initiatives and overseeing the transition to online banking to supporting community service points and mentoring directors, she has always been at the forefront of progress. Her work with the South West Chapter board, including serving as Chair, further highlighted her commitment to the sector.

Reflecting on her time with the credit union, Jackie said: “It has been an absolute privilege to be part of this incredible journey. What started as a small, local initiative has grown into a thriving organisation that truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with dedicated colleagues, volunteers, and directors who all share the same mission—to provide fair and accessible financial services. While I am stepping back, I have every confidence that the credit union will continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”