The Scottish Government has launched a new campaign which aims to get more people accessing credit unions

A new campaign aims to highlight the benefits of joining a credit union.

Hollywood actor and fair credit campaigner Michael Sheen has backed the People, Not Profit campaign.

A new website has been set up to offer advice and help people find their local credit union.

Sheen said: "I'm very pleased to be backing the People, Not Profit campaign, and I share the Scottish Government's ambition to grow and raise awareness of this sector.

"I'm a member of a credit union myself, so I know first-hand the benefits they offer. What's important to me is that they are owned by the people who actually use their services and any profits that they make are invested back into the credit union."

Communities secretary Aileen Campbell visited Capital Credit Union in Edinburgh to launch the campaign.

She said: "In helping build a fairer Scotland, we want to protect people from getting into unmanageable debt and falling into the hands of predatory, high cost lenders. A key part of this is making sure that people are aware of the financial services and fair alternatives available, including credit union membership.

"Our new campaign will highlight the benefits of joining a credit union and I would encourage everyone to visit the new website to find out more.”

The campaign has been developed with significant input from third sector representatives, including credit unions, their members and their trade associations. A four week advertising campaign will also take place.