大象传媒

In Brighton, East Sussex credit union is coming of age and celebrating 18 years of helping its members save and borrow responsibly. Members like student Jabulani, who needs a 拢1,500 loan to visit his sick mother in South Africa. She has diabetes and, as the only son, Jabulani needs to fly out to look after her.

A couple from Boston in Lincolnshire set up a gym with a difference, focusing on friends rather than building biceps. It is inclusive to all, regardless of age or ability, thanks to 拢70,000 loan that enabled them to get financially fit.

In Looe, Cornwall, an ethical loan inspires children to fight the plague of plastic pollution. Former teacher turned author Ellie needed a 拢12,500 loan to enable her to publish her children's books inspiring people to clean up their local beaches, after she and her family were part of a turtle release in Australia.

Half of adults struggling with debt also have a mental health issue, something 41-year-old Chris from Chester knows only too well. Chris suffered from anxiety, manic episodes and depression from an early age. Living beyond his means plunged him up to 拢35,000 in debt. Chris finally got involved with the mental health charity Rethink Mental Illness. He is now sober, debt free, and helps others through peer support work with the charity.