Hoot and Manchester Credit Union Merger
What you need to know
The members of both Hoot Credit Union and Manchester Credit union have agreed to merge. Together we will be able to offer enhanced services, greater financial resilience and expanded opportunities to all our members whilst retaining our local focus.
As neighbouring, and in the case of Bury, overlapping credit unions, that share the same values and commitment to excellent customer and community service; the move to come together and form a stronger credit union is the logical next step to securing credit union services in the years to come.
The Bolton branch in Victoria Square will remain open, helping to retain the local focus that Hoot has been proud of for the last 20 years and will form part of the bigger credit union, serving over 38,000 members in eight Greater Manchester boroughs.
When will it happen?
We aim to complete all the regulatory processes and transfer on 1 July 2026.
Will I still be a member of Hoot?
No, your membership will transfer to Manchester Credit Union on July 1 2026. Your membership number will look very similar, with just one digit added. You will still be able to access your account online as you do now, the only difference will be the logo and the colours on your app or online account will be a bit different.
Will I still have to pay my loan?
Yes, you must continue to make your loan repayments as usual. On 1 July 2026 your loan will transfer to Manchester Credit Union. Next time you apply for a loan, you will do so via Manchester Credit Union’s online application.
Can I still apply for a Hoot loan?
Hoot will continue to accept loan applications on a date to be confirmed. After that date, you will apply via your Manchester Credit Union membership.
What if i am a member of both credit unions?
Your accounts will be merged into one account and membership immediately after the merger. Further details of how that will work will be available at a later date.
Will I still get dividend on my savings?
As with any credit union, dividends are proposed and approved at the Annual General Meeting, so they cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Will I still be able to talk to someone about my account?
You will still be able to contact us in the usual way via the app, email or telephone. We will provide more detailed information of how to do this before the merger.
Will you still be called Hoot?
No, after the transfer, Hoot will no longer exist and you will become a member of Manchester Credit Union.
Will you have the same staff?
All the Hoot staff will remain with the newly merged credit union and continue to be based in Bolton. They will still be on hand to answer all your enquiries. You may also be answered by Manchester Credit Union staff, but all staff are committed to supporting members as they always have been.