Volume 4 | Issue 3

Summer 2021

WELCOME TO OUR SUMMER NEWSLETTER

South Dublin | Fingal | Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council

 

Our Members are the owners of  Black Raven Credit Union 

We want to take this opportunity to remind you that Black Raven Credit Union is a member owned financial co-operative where every member has an equal say in the running of the credit union.

Black Raven Credit Union is proud to be affiliated to the Irish League of Credit Unions and we are also  Members of the Dublin Meitheal Group of 23 Credit Unions where we share and collaborate, we all agree that Together we are Better.

AGM financial Year 2020

We held our first virtual AGM on 31/03/2021.  The AGM was a huge success and saw the highest number of attendees to date.    The meeting was professionally and ably chaired by Gerry Berrigan, Director at Black Raven, Gerry had the daunting task of chairing one of the first ever virtual AGM's and the first for Black Raven. The AGM was  overseen by our Auditors, PKF O'Connor Leddy Holmes. Jason O Sullivan, Director did a fantastic job coordinating us  and ensuring that everything ran smoothly.  A soft  copy of the Annual Report for 2020 and previous years can be found at www.blackravencu.ie. Hard copies are available on request.

Prizes

As usual there were 5 One For All vouchers of  €100 (€500 in total) raffled on the night.  It was great to see so many Members  and founding directors of Black Raven Credit Union attending the AGM and after we had concluded the AGM we managed to have a virtual catch up with lots of banter and a few laughs.

New CuMobile App 

We are delighted to formally  launch our new CuMobile App.  This is a great new service for our members, with easy fingerprint login. This ensures that the problem of remembering passwords has diminished.  Read below for how to download the App and the key benefits of CuMobile.   We would ask that all Members try out the App and see for yourselves the huge improvements which have been made.  It really is comparable to any other App in the banking sector. 

Loan Processing Waiting Time

We have improved our waiting time for loan processing and  decisions and most loans are approved within 24 hours. Loans can also be processed online with funds transferred directly to your bank account.  Lorraine Lacey and Brian Kennelly are here to patiently help you through the process. Our Members who have used this service are very happy with it and love how helpful both Lorraine and Brian are, they make the process very user friendly.

Here for all your lending needs

We wish to remind you that we are here for all of your lending needs, this is your credit union and its success depends on the support of its members. Now is the perfect time to carry out home improvements, whether your home improvement projects are big or small we are here to discuss your borrowing requirements. We are financing big home improvements by redeeming mortgages and extending loans for large retrofitting projects. We have joined with other credit unions in the CU Greener Homes Scheme which has been designed and developed  by the Irish League of Credit Unions and we have variable rates depending on the size of the loan required.   At Black Raven we have loans for all purposes our Car Loans are very competitive and can be designed to suit your needs.  The  Anniversary Loan continues to be available at rate of 4.99% APR, its never been a better time to treat yourself or your loved ones.
We are happy to discuss your options anytime and are happy to compare quotations you may already have received. 

 Contact us today on 01-4610682 or email loans@blackravencu.ie.

National Volunteer Week

The 17th - 23rd of May was National Volunteer week.  We celebrated all who Volunteer but especially the Volunteer team at Black Raven Credit Union who give their time and experience so generously to promote inclusive financial services for all.  Thank you to all those volunteers who make a difference, our movement wouldn't be here without your trojan work!  An analysis done by the Irish League of Credit Unions found that of the 190 Credit Unions in the Republic  there are over 1,350 volunteers offering their services to their local communities and workplaces. Our Volunteer Team at Black Raven have gone above and beyond what is normally required by  adapting to new work practices and embracing  new technology in order to ensure that the Members of Black Raven Credit Union have a fantastic service at their finger tips.  While these Volunteers were working away supporting citizens in their day jobs they were also going above and beyond by ensuring their  co-workers continued to have access to financial services during the pandemic. 

Celebrating  Cultural Diversity and Community

Black Raven Credit Union celebrated the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development on May 21st.  Credit Unions are founded on 10 Operating Principles which are founded in the philosophy of co-operation. Principle 8 is centered on Non-discrimination in race, religion and politics. Principle 10 is focused on Social Responsibility. We also supported Pride month in June,  where this years theme was "Community" we developed and launched a new Pride  logo which you may have seen on our social media channels. 

New Members

We have waived our waiting times for loans, once a member you are eligible to borrow.  New Members will be considered for a loan on joining.  With high cost credit providers leaving the market and banks also exiting, credit unions remain strong and committed to their Members. Credit Unions are Local, Loyal and Lending and here for you.

Susan Lynch 

CEO

 

Introducing our NEW CuMobile App 

Our new CuMobile app is here, and it has everything you need for your daily banking needs.

How do I get CuMobile?
Android phone users:
Step 1: Uninstall CU Anywhere App from your mobile phone.
Step 2: Download CuMobile App for free from the Play Store on your Android phone.
Step 3: Open the app, select Black Raven Credit Union. Click on login and enter your login credentials.  You do not need to re-register; your existing login credentials remain the same.  You will be asked to generate a one-time passcode which will be sent to your mobile device.  You will be given the option of enabling biometric login.  Sit back and enjoy all the features of our new mobile app.

iPhone users:
Step 1: Uninstall CU Anywhere App from your mobile phone.
Step 2: Download CuMobile App for free from the Apple Store on your iPhone.
Step 3: Open the app, select Black Raven Credit Union. Click on login and enter your login credentials.  You do not need to re-register; your existing login credentials remain the same.  You will be asked to generate a one-time passcode which will be sent to your mobile device.  You will be given the option of enabling biometric login.  Sit back and enjoy all the features of our new mobile app.

If you have not registered for CuOnline banking, you can register through our website www.blackravencu.ie

If you would like to contact a member of staff with any queries, please email enquiries@blackravencu.ie or phone 01-4610682.

Benefits of CuMobile

• Easy login process, Biometric login.
• Manage your credit union account anywhere 24/7.
• Transfer funds online.
• Lodge money into your credit union account from a bank account or building society account.
• Pay bills online at no charge.
• Apply for loans online.
• Calculate loan repayments.
• Collect your loan online.
• Check your account balances and latest transactions on your accounts.
• Full Online Statements – View and Print your statements.
• Contact Black Raven Credit Union via secure messaging section.
• Secure document upload facility.
• Transfer money between your Credit Union accounts

Important information for members using our older cuAnywhere App. 
Please note that from July 31^st 2021 we will be retiring our older cuAnywhere Credit Union mobile app. For members who have the cuAnywhere app installed – the app will no longer function, and Members will no longer be able to carry out any actions including viewing their account.

NEXT STEPS
If you have not already downloaded our new and improved CuMobile App, we suggest you do so as soon as possible to continue using our mobile services. Our new app has an improved layout and extra functionality including a biometric login facility. Our new mobile app enables push notifications and alerts. 

 

 

CU Greener Homes 

A one-stop-solution for all your home energy efficiency improvements

• Black Raven Credit Union, in partnership with Energia and House 2 Home, is delighted to announce the launch of CU Greener Homes, a one-stop-solution for all your home energy efficiency improvements. Whether you are considering a new boiler or a deep retrofit, CU Greener Homes is here to help you.
• In order to support the green economy and encourage everyone to strive for most energy efficient enhancements, we are offering the lowest interest rates on work which has the biggest overall impact on the home’s energy rating.
• Approved retrofit work which results in the home achieving a Building Energy Rating (BER) of A3 or better will attract a loan interest rate of 4.9% APR.
• Approved retrofit work which results in the home achieving a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2 or better will attract a loan interest rate of 5.96% APR.
• Approved work which results in a home achieving an energy rating of lower than B2 will attract a loan interest rate of 7.98% APR.
• Terms, conditions and eligibility criteria apply.

Benefits of going green

• You can help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions
• Lower energy bills
• Warmer home
• More energy efficient home

For further information visit www.cugreenerhomes.ie

 

Why not plan ahead for the coming school year. Back to school is expensive. With uniforms, books and supplies it’s easy to see how the cost can add up!  Whether it’s an iPad or laptop, books or uniforms we can help you budget the cost over
the longer term. Each school year can be costly, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. We can help relieve your stresses with our flexible, affordable education loan that can not only cover the costs of back to school but other fees too.  Apply today on 01-4610682 or  email us at loans@blackravencu.ie

 

2021 is another year of staying at home. Holidays this year look a little different, and all for a very good reason. Lots of us who would normally take our summer holidays in Europe or further afield are now staying home for the foreseeable future.  

We have all been through a lot as a nation and we deserve some rest and relaxation.  As we approach the summer holidays, this is the perfect opportunity to start planning trips to explore the hidden gems Ireland has to offer! Whether you plan to visit the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher or the Wild Atlantic Way, we have the perfect holiday loan for you.  Apply today through your CU Online account, by phone 01-4610682 or email loans@blackravencu.ie

 

Take the Stress Out of Back to School Expenses 

Why not plan ahead for the coming school year. Back to school is expensive. With uniforms, books and supplies it’s easy to see how the cost can add up! Whether it’s an iPad or laptop, books or uniforms we can help you budget the cost over
the longer term. 

Each school year can be costly, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. You can save in a Money Saver Account to budget for the costs or we can help relieve your stresses with a loan that can not only cover the costs of back to school but other fees too. 

Talk to us today about how to set up a Money Saver Account. Call us on 01-4610682 or  email us at enquiries@blackravencu.ie

 

Are you dreaming of upgrading to a warmer home, improving your home energy efficiency or even making your home bigger & brighter?  Well the answer might be just around the corner!  Black Raven Credit Union is now making those home renovations even more affordable by spreading the repayment term up to 10 years.

We know that any renovation to your home can be stressful and we want to ensure that financing your home renovation project is not one of those stressful things.  Start imagining the possibilities for your home with our Home Renovation Loan.  Dream big because big plans don’t have to mean big payments. Why not talk to us today about our range of home improvement loans at 01-4610682 or email us at loans@blackravencu.ie. All of your dreams that are big or small, we’ve got you covered with our home renovation loan. We are here to advise and assist with your lending needs. *Lending terms and conditions apply

 

 

HERE FOR ALL YOUR LENDING NEEDS

HOW TO APPLY FOR A LOAN 

 

About Our Debt Consolidation Loan

Switch and save with our debt consolidation loan!  Would you like to pay off existing credit cards, loans and other outstanding debts and consolidate them into one easy, manageable loan?  We are here to discuss a new financial plan with you. Call us at Black Raven Credit Union on 01-4610682, or email us at loans@blackravencu.ie

Why Choose a Debt Consolidation Loan?

• You could lower your monthly repayment costs and save money over the life of the loan 
• You can have one manageable repayment
• You may be able to pay off your debt faster
• You can track and stay on top of your finances much easier

Sample savings 1:

Sample savings 2:

 

Following the recent announcement that Provident Financial, the largest money lender in the Irish market will be withdrawing from the Irish market, we would like to remind you that Credit Unions are here to stay. We offer affordable & flexible finance. 

We understand that life can throw you unexpected challenges & financial strains. The Irish League of Credit Unions President Helene McManus said "I would strongly encourage anyone in need of a small loan to contact their local credit union, even if they aren’t currently a member or have a poor credit history, to discuss their financial requirements instead of going to a high-cost licenced moneylender. Credit unions will assist borrowers to transition from their existing moneylender.” Read the full statement here.

Speak to us today about your options. Contact us by phone 01-4610682, email: loans@blackravencu.ie or visit our website www.blackravencu.ie

 

For illustrative purposes, a loan of €500 from a credit union typically repaid over 6 months will accrue interest of €15 compared to €150 interest charged by licenced moneylenders for the same loan over the same period.

Choose Black Raven Credit Union for your lending needs.

 

The death of a loved one can cause huge upheaval in our lives. As well as the loss and grief, the financial implications for our nearest and dearest can also be difficult to manage.  Death Benefit Plus funeral insurance is a whole of life insurance policy which for a small monthly premium can provide funeral cover in the form of a guaranteed lump sum on death. It can help to pay for funeral bills or other significant costs at this time and can lessen the financial burden for those left behind. Alternatively it could also be left in your Will to a loved one for any purpose.

What is Death Benefit Plus?
Death Benefit Plus can simply be described as funeral insurance or funeral cover. In insurance terms, Death Benefit Plus is a whole of life insurance policy that pays a lump sum on your death. This lump sum can be used to help pay for your funeral plans, undertaker costs, the cost of headstones or any other bills and expenses at the time of your death. The lump sum does not have to be used for funeral expenses, you could alternatively leave instructions in your Will to have the lump sum paid to someone on your passing to be used for any purpose.

A whole of life policy is a policy that is guaranteed to pay a lump sum benefit on your death, provided you pay the required premiums.

Key Features of Death Benefit Plus

• Pays a Lump Sum on Your Death: You choose the cover amount to suit your funeral plans or needs, ranging from €3,000 up to €15,000. Once your policy has been in place for two years, a lump sum will be paid to loved ones to help pay your funeral expenses.
• Protected Benefit: This feature provides you with added protection where you have at least 5 year’s premiums paid but have to stop paying your premiums early. In this event, we will keep a proportional benefit for you that can be claimed on your death. Funeral policies without this feature would not pay any benefit on your death.
• Guaranteed Cover: You’re guaranteed to be accepted for Death Benefit Plus funeral insurance if you’re resident and living in the Republic of Ireland, aged at least 18 and under 80 and hold an account with an Irish based financial institution allowing direct debit deductions. 
• No Medicals: There is no need to complete a lengthy medical questionnaire or attend for a medical examination. 
• Affordable Premiums that will not go up: Premiums can start as low as €10* a month and remain fixed for the duration of the policy. Your premiums will be based on your age and the cover amount you choose and will not go up.

 Visit www.dbplus.ie for a quote today or LoCall 0818-29-39-49

 

* Based on a 46 years old with €3,000 cover paying a monthly premium of €10 including the 1% government levy currently applying to life assurance premiums. The total premiums paid over the term of the policy may exceed the death benefit.

 

 

Easter Competition - a free member Easter competition was held on 1st April 2021 for some lovely Butlers Chocolates Easter Goodies.  Lyndsay O'Connor was the lucky winner of the goodies.

Dublin Zoo Competition - a free member competition was held on 2nd June 2021 for two family pass gift vouchers to Dublin Zoo.  Maeve Byrne & Valerie Reid were the lucky winners.  

Be sure to follow up on Social Media to be in with chance of winning some more prizes. 

 

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