Pensioner calls for update on Dalmuir Credit Union plan closure
Anne McAulay, 74, explained how she received a letter informing her that the Family Protection Plan at Dalmuir Credit Union was set to close as they were failing to find an underwriter for the policy.
It is understood that the current underwriter has chosen to withdraw from the UK Market.
Speaking to Glasgow Times, those affected say they fear becoming 'a burden to her family' if they were given nothing when they die.
Anne McAulay is calling for quicker action. (Image: Gordon Terris) Anne said: "It's really annoying and worrying, the longer this drags on. I'm concerned that whatever solution is going to turn up is going to cost us a lot more money that we don't have.
"There are a lot of really angry people who have paid a lot more than I have. To be told it's going to stop is just not acceptable.
"If they are shutting down these policies, then we can't afford to pay £60 a month on a new one.
"I'm glad that our MP has helped, I feel like if he didn't come, it could have been swept under the rug."
We previously reported how almost 70 pensioners at the credit union, some of whom have been paying for the scheme for 25 years, could be left with nothing if a solution is not found.
It is understood that formal communication on next steps is to be provided by CMutual from May 19.
Dalmuir Credit Union. (Image: Gordon Terris) Dalmuir Credit Union says it will release a statement once the information has been received next month.
The Association of British Credit Unions (ABCUL) Limited say they are aware of the situation and are working with CMutual on next steps.
A spokesperson for ABCUL said: "We understand the concerns raised by credit unions and, most importantly, their members regarding the anticipated withdrawal of the CMutual Family Protection Plan product. While the product has not yet been formally withdrawn, we are working closely with CMutual and other stakeholders in anticipation of this outcome.
"We recognise the implications this situation may have for members, particularly over the age of 70, who may find their access to financial protection limited. It is these individuals who face the most direct and immediate impact, and our priority is to ensure that appropriate and viable alternatives are explored for them.
"The Association was not involved in the decision to withdraw the product, but we have taken proactive steps to support credit unions and advocate for the interests of affected members. This includes facilitating open dialogue, gathering key concerns, and engaging with CMutual to identify potential solutions.
"ABCUL remains committed to supporting credit unions in navigating this transition, and we will continue to provide guidance and resources to help them communicate effectively with their members. We encourage any credit union with questions or concerns to get in touch, and we will do everything we can to provide assistance during this challenging time."
A spokesperson for CMutual said: "We expect to issue credit unions with the next formal update on the Family Protection Plan (FPP) product during week commencing May 19, 2025, – this will give credit unions and their members involved the opportunity to review their options in one comprehensive update and take any necessary actions. We remain fully committed to working in partnership with the credit unions in the days and weeks ahead
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The Herald Scotland
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The number of outdoor artworks dotted around town, the carefully landscaped roundabouts, and the spring flowers blooming from every public space give Glenrothes a wholesome community feeling, even for those just passing through. The town, like many in Scotland, is caught between two narratives. Its affordability gives many the chance to get on the housing ladder and provides young families with a safe, quiet community in which to raise children. But the housing crisis has made the security of home ownership increasingly out of reach for many. Fife Council acknowledges the 'extreme pressure' it's under to meet housing needs in the crisis. The local authority has created the Fife Housing Register, a shared list providing a single access route to available homes, in partnership with local housing associations. "We're actively reducing waiting times for those assessed as statutorily homeless as part of our short-term housing emergency response, though challenges remain, especially for larger families and those with specific health or disability needs,' says the authority's housing access service manager. 'Precise information about housing prospects is difficult to provide. We understand the uncertainty this creates and remain committed to supporting applicants through the process." I ask Hume how he feels about his new temporary accommodation. 'I've got no storage, but it's better than a hostel,' he sighs. Marissa MacWhirter is a columnist and feature writer at The Herald, and the editor of The Glasgow Wrap. The newsletter is curated between 5-7am each morning, bringing the best of local news to your inbox each morning without ads, clickbait, or hyperbole. Oh, and it's free. She can be found on X @marissaamayy1
Glasgow Times
09-06-2025
- Glasgow Times
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