The Derby West Indian Association set up a Benevolent Fund and a Credit Union, to provide financial support for its community. You can hear more about these projects in our DWICA Oral History station. Business support was also provided later in the Association’s history for local Black entrepreneurs.  

Credit Union 

In 1978 Robert Murray, (Chairman) George Mighty, (Secretary) and Sam Lee, (Treasurer) evaluated if a credit union was suitable for members. DWIA Credit Union started to provide community savings and loans, as members found it difficult to save and borrow funds for major or emergency purchases. 

Meeting organisational and legal obligations, such as having a common bond which all members could associate with, was critical. Membership of DWIA became the bond, enabling the DWIA Credit Union to open in 1980. 

In 2005 the Credit Union received a recognition award from the East Midlands regional chapter for 25 years of successful growth whilst providing a valued financial support service. The Union in its 30th year had in excess of 250 members. 

Demand from non-DWICA members to join grew and in 2011 the common bond (operating license) was transferred to a city-wide credit union called the Derby United Credit Union, meaning DWICA no longer had any legal duties or responsibilities for its operations.  

Fundraising 

The Association fundraised for many local, national and international causes alongside supporting members.