The British Credit Union Historical Society

DEUK 2004

DEUK 2004 was one of the most exciting learning opportunities to hit our credit union shores for quite a while. The first ever program in Britain took place in Edinburgh from 9 to 13th September and was a most rewarding credit union experience. The DE high level course looked at the impact of credit unions on today's societal issues was designed to look at the strategic impact our credit unions can have, and how we can take forward the Credit Union message to "influencers" in our society. Many participants from all over Britain and as far away as Washington DC took part. The course was a 5-day residential. Guest speakers included the Chairman of the World Council of Credit Unions, representatives from the Financial Services Authority, the Cooperative Movement, CUNA Mutual and many more. The first graduation ceremony was hosted by the Provost (Mayor) of East Lothian Council in the Council Chambers on 13th September.

DEUK 2005

DEUK 2005 the second program took place between 8^th and 13^th of September. Delegates came from all walks of life who brought with them enthusiasm and a willingness to share ideas an open mind to listen and learn from the experience and views of others and most importantly, delegates who shared a common belief in the importance and value of credit unions in society.

Organizers Marline Sheils and Mary Henderson are pictured with Chris Smith of the CO-OP Bank receiving an award in recognition of their work to bring Development Education to Britain.

DEUK 2008 program now in the fifth year where graduates will join the ranks of over 100 people who have been through this five-day intensive credit union training and development program, as well as joining over 1,000 Development Educators from other programs around the world.

Participants heard from some of the most respected names in the credit union world including: Gigi Hyland from the US regulatory authority that looks after 90 million credit union members; Bobby McVeigh, ex World Council Chairman, Canada; Jeremy Palmer of the IJK Financial Services Authority and ABCUL's Mark Lyonette. Participants from all over Britain will join with credit union colleagues from Canada, America and Europe in Edinburgh from 4 to 8 September.