A new campaign is being launched across the Highlands and Islands to help people put aside even the smallest amounts and build financial security for the future.
HI-Scot Credit Union, which has been serving communities for nearly two decades, is inviting everyone to join HI‑Save, a movement that champions regular saving as a way to reduce stress, plan ahead and stay resilient during tough times.
The campaign comes at a moment when the rising cost of living is squeezing household budgets like never before.
National figures show that more than 11.5 million people in the UK have no savings at all.
In Scotland alone, over a third of adults have less than £1,000 put aside for emergencies.
HI‑Save is designed to change that.
By showing how small and consistent contributions can add up over time, the campaign hopes to empower people to take that first step towards financial confidence.
“HI‑Save is about helping people realise that saving really is possible for everyone,” said David Mackay, Chief Executive of HI‑Scot.
“Even a few pounds each week can provide a cushion when life throws up the unexpected.”
For twenty years HI‑Scot has been rooted in the local economy, offering ethical loans and fair savings to thousands of members across the Highlands and Islands.
It is owned by those very members, a true co‑operative and any surplus is reinvested into the communities it serves.
To date, members’ savings have funded more than £15 million in affordable loans, keeping money local and offering a safe alternative to payday lenders and high‑interest credit cards.
The new campaign aims to close the gap between those who feel able to save and those who believe they cannot.
“We are incredibly proud of what our members have achieved,” said David.
“But too many people feel excluded from the habit of saving.
“HI‑Save is here to prove that it can work for everyone.”
HI‑Scot is inviting councillors, MPs, MSPs, employers and community groups to lead by example and join the initiative.
The goal is to build a culture of saving that lifts the whole region.
“A community that saves is a community that thrives,” David added.
“HI‑Save is a small idea with big potential and we would love everyone to be a part of it.”
HI‑Scot is based in Stornoway but serves members across the Western Isles, Orkney, Shetland and the Highlands.
To learn more or to take part in HI‑Save, visit www.hi‑scot.com or call 01851 701865.
