A CREDIT union and a charity have teamed up to help more people get on the road and into work.

Just Credit Union is now partnered with Shropshire Rural Communities Charity to provide vehicle loans to those living in the county who are possibly missing out on employment or training positions because of a lack of public transport.

Through the new partnership arrangement Just Credit Union will be in a position to offer more people the chance to join the scheme and receive support with their financial planning.

The Wheels2Work scheme provides scooters and electric bikes at an affordable weekly rate, giving its clients the chance to save for their own transport.

Anyone interested in joining Wheels2Work and unable to pay the deposit and/or weekly fees can also apply for a low-rate loan through Just Credit Union.

Steve Barras, Business Development Officer for Just Credit Union, said: “The Wheels2Work scheme has been providing a valuable service to people across the county for several years and we are now delighted to be working very closely with them.

“As an ethical not-for- profit savings and loans co-operative, we have clear joint interests with the scheme to improve the economic welfare of the people of Shropshire. We hope to build long-term relationships with the service’s clients and provide affordable loans when needed, as well as easy ways to save.”

Sue Homden, who manages Wheels2Work, said: “As one of England’s most rural counties, people in Shropshire without transport options face a big challenge just getting to a job.

“Wheels2Work provides a two-wheeled option so that the lack of public transport isn’t a barrier, and by teaming up with Just Credit Union we want to remove further barriers that people could potentially face in accessing work or training opportunities.”

Just Credit Union is a not-for-profit community bank owned by its members and managed for their mutual benefit. Membership is open to anyone who lives or works in Shropshire or Telford and Wrekin.

Wheels2Work has been running for 23 years and its success has resulted in over 45 similar schemes being set up across England and Wales.