Depending on your time scale, I'd recommend a Credit Union. You cannot get a loan without a record of regular savings (a few months, and not a huge amount - say £10 a month) and the rates are very reasonable. Also you are then a share holder, and a credit union is much much much more ethical than any high street bank.....

Hi gk1982.

I agree with beerdrinker that credit unions are potentially an excellent way to save and borrow.

I think the only way that you're going to find out whether you can get the loan you are looking for will be to apply for it from one or two sources. Your own bank might be a good starting point?

Just make sure you steer clear of any of these payday loan type companies as they cost a fortune!

Many employers are linked to a credit union and will give you an introductory loan which you can repay by payroll deduction. Most local authorities, bus drivers union, etc, are now using credit unions to offer this useful staff benefit. The ABCUL website has a good search facility of all credit unions - just put in who you work for and/or postcode to get information on which credit unions you can join.

Thanks for all the replies guys, looking into credit union through my work as this looks the best option.

I've just checked out uncleben's suggestion of the search function for local (or relevant) credit unions on the ABCUL website.

It's excellent.

Hi gk u will be asked if u've ever been bankrupt when applying for loan, i would answer no to this as it happened over 6 years ago.

Hi bj71.

A bankruptcy is different to a protected trust deed. Anyone who has been through a trust deed can answer that question "no" irrespective of the timescales involved.

Sometimes nowadays the question asked is have you ever been bankrupt or entered a formal agreement with creditors,so be very careful to read the smallprint!

Paul

PLasticdaft-that wording seems very familiar. I've seen the question put that way on insurance applications too I'm sure.