The British Credit Union Historical Society

2002 was when discussions took place with some who had taken part in the Credit Union Development Education (CUDE) program in the USA.  This group understood that in the UK there was a need to provide such a program on co-operative principals in order to enhance leadership and business skills.  Marlene Shiels CEO Capital Credit Union and Mike Beal (USA) together with Mary Henderson ABCUL President, were the first  course Directors of the D.E.U.K. program which began in Edinburgh in 2004. Alex Spence was the administrator of the programme till 2010. after the success of the DEUK held in Edinburgh since 2004.  DEUK was replaced by DEEU to include delegates from Europe with the first course being held also in Edinburgh and the following year in Liverpool and administered by Carol Philbin from Partners Credit Union and headed by Tracey Fletcher CEO of Partners Credit Union.

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.

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.

During the week-long DE 2006 training, participants were involved in group exercises, encouraged to ask questions of visiting speakers, and required to complete team projects proposing solutions for credit unions to help alleviate or eliminate challenging situations in given areas. The delegates returned to their respective credit unions with a sense of personal enrichment, renewed energy and the achievement of Graduation as a DE and part of an international network.

Many credit union advocates from around the world have graduated from DE Training to become Credit Union Development Educators. Linking credit unions both past and present, the DE program brings renewed relevance to the philosophy of "People Helping People."

Here we have the Mentors of the class of 2007

Organizers Marline Shiels and Mary Henderson since 2004 are pictured with Chris Smith of the CO-OP Bank receiving an award in recognition of their work to bring Development Education to Britain.

The Program began when student participants were assigned to their Groups. Meal breaks provided an opportunity for the participants to relax with their new colleagues and begin to develop friendships and relationships. There was the traditional quiz night, opportunities to continue networking throughout the week. Over the five days students were given lots of information, challenges tasks to deliver and came through with flying colours. Certificates, and badges were presented, and photographs were taken.