Trade associations provide a strong central voice to represent credit unions' interests to Government, government departments, the regulator, the media and external organisations interested in supporting credit unions. The strategic approach, policy objectives and work of trade associations are established by individual credit unions at the annual general meeting of the trade association. A trade association is therefore accountable to credit unions and at all times strive to operate in the best interest of credit unions. In addition to a trade associations' important role in lobbying for an improvement in the external operating environment for credit unions, a trade association also provides a centralised delivery of information, training and technical services, which are a crucial contributory factor to enable a credit union to grow. Chapters and Forums facilitate networking, provide training and enable discussion between credit unions in a defined area.
Local authorities are the main providers of funding for development.
A number are currently revising their strategies for work in this area. Through the Community Planning process local authorities have the opportunity to ensure that credit union development is taken forward in a strategic manner and as an integral part of their economic development strategy. Some banks already provide assistance to credit unions at a local level, for example tailored banking products with favourable terms and conditions. The financial sector could also usefully support the movement through secondments and the provision of training, premises, and equipment. The Scottish Executive convened the national development strategy working group to establish a strategic national framework for Scotland, and will provide resources to kickstart the implementation of the strategy.