Community Savings, the Jersey based charity supporting individuals experiencing financial hardship, is excited to announce an exclusive 80th anniversary Liberation theme celebration evening featuring the renowned Michelin Star chef, Michael Caines MBE.

The internationally acclaimed chef and bestselling author will host a luxurious five course dinner at the Royal Yacht Hotel on Thursday, 15th May 2025.

Michael Caines MBE, one of the UK’s most celebrated chefs, is the Chef Patron of Lympstone Manor, a luxury country house hotel in Exmouth, Devon.

With two Michelin stars to his name for 18 consecutive years before opening his own establishment, Caines quickly earned Lympstone Manor its first Michelin star within just six months. His modern European cuisine is renowned worldwide, emphasising the finest local, artisanal ingredients.
Caines is a familiar face on television, regularly appearing on shows like “Saturday Kitchen,” “MasterChef,” “The Great British Menu,” and “Sunday Brunch.” Recently, he lent his expertise to ITV’s “Cooking with the Stars” and joined Fred Sirieix in “Remarkable Places to Eat.” In recognition of his contributions to the hospitality industry, Caines was awarded an MBE in 2006 and currently serves as the Deputy Lieutenant to the Lord Lieutenant of Devon.

Steven Hunt, the event organiser and fundraising chairman for Community Savings, expressed his excitement about Caines’ visit: “We are delighted to welcome another esteemed celebrity chef to Jersey. This event offers local residents a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class cuisine right here on the island while supporting our charity.”

Chef Michael Caines has crafted a five-course menu that showcases locally sourced ingredients and will personally introduce each course, providing guests with insights into his culinary choices. In preparation for the event, he will collaborate with Executive Chef Inaka Weerasinghe and his team at the Royal Yacht Hotel.

Michael Caines shared his enthusiasm for the event, saying, “I am very excited to be visiting Jersey and collaborating with Steven and Executive Chef Inaka and his team at The Royal Yacht Hotel for a Community Savings fundraising evening. It is my honour to support Community Savings in their incredible cause to help people who have fallen on hard financial times.”

With limited seating for just 250 guests, tickets are priced at £200 to include a Champagne reception, five course dinner, coffee/tea petit fours and they are expected to sell quickly.

Please contact Steven Hunt at steven.hunt@communitysavings.org.je to book your individual place or a table of ten.

Community Savings is delighted to acknowledge the invaluable support over the years of the Association of Jersey Charities (AJC) and the Jersey Community Foundation (JCF), whose generous grants help further our mission of providing financial inclusion and support to those in need within our community.

The funding provided by AJC and JCF enable Community Savings to continue delivering essential financial education, guidance, and accessible banking services to individuals who may otherwise be excluded from mainstream financial institutions. As a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering people towards financial independence, these grants have a significant impact on our ability to support vulnerable members of society.

“We are incredibly grateful to both the Association of Jersey Charities and the Jersey Community Foundation for their ongoing support,” said Stephen Reilly at Community Savings. “This funding allows us to expand our services, reach more individuals in financial difficulty, and continue our efforts in promoting financial literacy and stability across Jersey.”

The Association of Jersey Charities and the Jersey Community Foundation both play crucial roles in supporting the island’s charitable sector, providing much-needed funding and resources to organisations that make a real difference in the community. Grants from both organisations are a testament to their commitment to fostering positive social impact.

Community Savings remains committed to offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals seeking financial help. With the backing of AJC and JCF, the charity is supported to continue its vital work in tackling financial exclusion.

July 2024 – Are you a team player who enjoys helping others? We are seeking individuals with experience in financial administration or personal banking to join us.

As a cashier volunteer, you will assist our members with administrative tasks such as handling day-to-day forms, preparing cheques for encashment, setting up standing orders, processing change of address requests, and managing one-off payments. Additionally, you’ll help members with account-related queries.

Our services operate four mornings a week, from Tuesday to Friday, and we ask for a commitment of at least one morning per week from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

We value volunteers who are dedicated, non-judgemental, professional, and possess strong communication skills.

If you’re interested in this volunteer role, please contact Lisa Lidbury with your CV at lisa.lidbury@communitysavings.org.je or call 737555.

Community Savings is a charity set up in 2001 to help islanders with money related challenges, it is currently the only charitable provider of ‘basic accounts’ in Jersey.  The charity is able to help the increasing number of financially or socially disadvantaged Jersey residents, by providing access to basic financial services that most of us take for granted but from which many are excluded. 

Community Savings goes further than simply providing account services, the charity aims to tackle financial issues encountered by islanders so they can successfully manage their money before facing a financial crisis.

Many of our members have experienced an economic tragedy, often through no fault of their own. The advantage of using our services is that each member is offered a personalised service with financial mentoring available alongside practical advice on savings.

communitysavings.org.je

May 2024 – We are thrilled to announce the resounding success of our recent fundraiser held at The Royal Yacht, featuring the incredible culinary talents of Ching-He Huang MBE. This memorable event, attended by over 200 guests, took place on Thursday night and showcased a spectacular six-course Chinese banquet prepared by Ching herself. The evening was not just a culinary delight but also a powerful platform for sharing stories and raising awareness about financial hardship.

Ching-He Huang, a familiar face from BBC’s Saturday Kitchen and a best-selling author, captivated the audience with her personal story of overcoming financial struggles. She emphasised the critical role of Community Savings in helping individuals avoid financial hardship, a cause that deeply resonates with her.

Steven Hunt, Fundraising Chairman at Community Savings, expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support. “This event is poised to raise as much as 10% of our annual turnover, which will have a significant impact on our ability to serve the community,” he noted.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Supporters

The success of the evening would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of our sponsors, supporters, raffle ticket buyers, and auction bidders. Your contributions are vital in enabling us to continue our mission of supporting those facing financial difficulties in our community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who played a part in making this fundraiser a triumph. Your support has made a substantial impact, and your generosity is making a real difference in our community.

Relive the Magic

For those who joined us and for those who couldn’t make it, we invite you to relive the magic of this unforgettable evening. Check out the photos and highlights from the event to see the joy and community spirit that filled the room.

Once again, thank you to Ching-He Huang for using her culinary talents to support our mission, and to everyone who attended and contributed. Your support is invaluable, and together, we are making a positive impact in our community.

To see the event highlights, please visit https://www.jerseyevents.com/communitysavingsching-hechinesebanquetcharityevent

Community Savings, a Jersey-based charity aiding individuals facing financial hardship, is thrilled to announce the upcoming visit of Ching-He Huang MBE, acclaimed international celebrity chef and bestselling author.

Ching-He Huang will be presenting a lavish Chinese banquet dinner at the Royal Yacht Hotel, on Thursday, 16^th May, 2024.

Recognised globally as a champion of Chinese cuisine, Ching-He’s culinary journey spans from her roots in Taiwan to her upbringing in South Africa and the UK. With television programmes like “Ching’s Kitchen” and “Ching Food Made Easy”, reaching millions of viewers worldwide, she has become a household name. Notably, she has been nominated for an Emmy and has authored ten bestselling cookbooks, including “Chinese Food Made Easy” and “Wok On.”

In addition to her culinary achievements, Ching-He is known for her humanitarian efforts, embracing storytelling and sharing meals as a way to connect people. In 2021 she launched an online masterclass focused on Vegan Chinese cuisine.

Expressing his excitement about Ching-He’s visit, Steven Hunt, organiser and fundraising chairman for the charity, remarked, “We are delighted to host an esteemed chef in Jersey to support our charity and offer local people an opportunity to savour exquisite cuisine without leaving the island.”

Ching-He Huang has curated an extensive menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, and will personally introduce each course, sharing insights into her culinary selections. Ahead of the event, she will collaborate with chef Inaka Weerasinghe and his team at the Royal Yacht Hotel.

The evening promises a delightful experience, complete with a champagne reception, traditional Chinese entertainment, raffle, and auction. Proceeds from ticket sales, priced at £175 per head, will bolster Community Savings’ efforts to assist individuals facing financial uncertainty.

Community Savings charity is grateful to sponsors: Equiom, Andrew and Fiona Tyrer: Neil and Susan Blair; Mrs Anon.

To secure your ticket, please contact steven.hunt@communitysavings.org.je

Menu
First Course: Prosperity Toss Noodle Salad
Second Course: Duck and Local Crab Spinach Dumplings in Sichuan Duck Broth
Third Course: Steamed Local Hand Dived Black Bean Scallops with Samphire Noodles
Fourth Course: Crispy Aromatic Duck and Pancakes with Hoisin Sauce
Fifth Main Course to Share: Local Lobster in Ginger Yellow Bean Spring Onion Noodles. Spicy Sweet Oyster Sauce Prawns with Pine Nuts. Steamed Local Seabass in Chilli Bean Sauce. Aromatic Beef in Hainan Spring Onion Salsa Verde. Char Siu Roast Pork with Honey
Sides: Ginger Pak Choy. Fried Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet Chilli Sauce. Crispy Shallot Jasmine Rice
Sixth Course Dessert: Vegan Mango Passionfruit Coconut Lime ‘Cheese’ Cake. Assorted Exotic Fresh Fruit Platter. Fortune Cookies. Petite Fours. Jasmine Tea, Teas/Coffees

🌱PLUS, for our vegan friends, relish in the delectable Vegan Menu! 🌱👩‍🍳

Vegan Menu
First Course: Smoked Tofu Prosperity Toss Noodle Salad
Second Course: Smoked Tofu Spinach Dumplings in Mushroom Broth
Third Course: Seared King Trumpet Mushroom on Samphire Noodles in Black Bean Sauce
Fourth Course: Five Spice Roasted Assorted Oyster and Shimeji Mushroom Pancakes with Hoisin Sauce
Fifth Main Course: Sweet Chilli Tofu with Water Chestnuts. Cantonese Black Bean Tofu. Buddha’s Chow Mein. Sichuan Smacked Garlic Cucumber Salad. Crispy Enoki with Hoisin
Sides: Ginger Pak Choy. Vegetable Spring Rolls with Sweet Chilli Sauce. Crispy Shallot Jasmine Rice
Sixth Course Dessert: Vegan Mango Passionfruit Coconut Lime ‘Cheese’ Cake. Assorted Exotic Fresh Fruit Platter. Fortune Cookies. Vegan Petite Fours. Jasmine Tea, Teas/Coffees

Community Savings, the island’s only financial services charity committed to the well-being and prosperity of its members and wider community, is excited to announce the development and launch of a financial management tool. Our new guide ‘Toolkit for Managing Your Finances’ incorporating a ‘Budget Planner’, is designed to assist not only our valued Members but anyone striving to take control of their finances and achieve their financial goals.

In a world where managing our basic finances can be overwhelming and we are having to meet the challenges of the prevailing cost of living crises, Community Savings recognises the need for accessible and user-friendly tools that empower individuals to make informed financial decisions. The ‘Budget Planner’ is a comprehensive solution, offering a simple yet effective interface to track income, expenses, and savings.

Key features of the Community Savings Budget Planner include:

User-Friendly Interface: The budget planner is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring ease of use for individuals at any level of financial expertise.

Insightful Tracking: Gain valuable insights into spending habits, identify areas for potential savings, and make informed decisions about your financial well-being.

Goal-Oriented Planning: Whether your objective is debt repayment, building an emergency fund, or investing for the future, the planner provides the necessary tools to stay on track and motivated.

To get started on your journey toward financial freedom and stability, simply gather your financial paperwork and refer to our online ‘Budget Planner’ at www.communitysavings.org.je/budget-planner.  If you need any guidance in relation to budgeting or would like to speak to us about the support we can provide, our team are ready to assist. Contact us at 01534 737555 or email office@communitysavings.org.je.

Stephen Reilly, CEO at Community Savings, commented: “Skillfully navigating your finances is fundamental to your overall well-being and future financial prosperity. Whether you’re embarking on the journey to financial independence or seeking to enhance your existing financial situation, a solid grasp of effective money management is essential.”

Community Savings is committed to paving the way for a brighter financial future for all. Download our ‘Toolkit for Managing Your Finances’ at www.communitysavings.org.je/budget-planner and embark on a journey toward financial empowerment today.

Community Savings, a leading charity in Jersey dedicated to promoting financial inclusion, is delighted to announce the appointment of Stephen Reilly as its new Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Reilly brings over 15 years of executive and board-level experience, with a proven track record of leadership in complex and large-scale financial services organisations.

Mr Reilly’s most recent role was as Head of Integration with a local trust and corporate services provider. His extensive background includes serving as Chief Operating Officer at a facilities management organisation and Managing Director, Head of Corporate Banking & Financial Markets at a prominent international bank.

Stephen Reilly is known for his capabilities in managing change and transformation of complex businesses. His core skills include leadership, change and transformation, client focus, strategy, stakeholder management, risk and regulatory relationship management, product knowledge, stamina, and delivery.

Regarding his new role as CEO at Community Savings, Stephen Reilly expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am delighted to be joining Community Savings and contributing to its mission of promoting financial inclusion in Jersey. I am eager to work with the team to provide essential services, guidance, and assistance to those most in need, ultimately helping individuals access mainstream banking services.”

The Chairman of Community Savings welcomed Mr. Reilly to the organisation, stating, “We are thrilled to have Stephen Reilly join Community Savings as our new CEO. His wealth of experience and proven leadership skills make him the ideal candidate to lead our organisation into the next phase of growth. We look forward to working closely with Stephen to further our mission of promoting financial inclusion in Jersey and supporting those facing financial challenges.”

Community Savings, established as a charity in 1997, aims to promote financial inclusion in Jersey by providing essential services, guidance, and practical assistance to those facing financial challenges. The organisation’s mission is to assist financially excluded islanders by offering access to basic account services, budgeting guidance, and emergency financial support.

The Board of Community Savings is confident that Stephen Reilly’s leadership and extensive experience will contribute significantly to the organisation’s ongoing success and impact in the community.

We are looking to increase our team!

Are you enthusiastic and caring and have some experience of financial services?  If so, we are looking for new volunteers to support the charity’s marketing strategy.

Volunteers will assist the Fundraising and Communications Manager by providing support for our marketing initiatives, event organising and fundraising activities.

We operate 4 mornings a week, Tuesday to Friday, and we are looking for someone that can give a minimum of one morning per week, preferably on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday.

Applicants should be committed, non-judgemental and professional with good communication skills and possessing a desire for joining our friendly and passionate team. Whilst marketing experience is not essential, a familiarity with social media would be beneficial.

Should you be interested in this volunteer role, please contact Claire Bradbury with your CV at claire.bradbury@communitysavings.org.je  or call 737555. 

In the vast tapestry of community service, there are those whose dedication shines brightly, casting a warm and lasting glow over the lives of others. This is the story of one such individual, who, for two decades, served at Community Savings, leaving his mark on the charity and the lives it touched. As we celebrate the retirement of Richard Dorey, we reflect on a journey marked by commitment, compassion, and a profound sense of purpose.

For twenty years, Richard, whose journey began as a Chartered Surveyor, transitioned to become a Chartered Secretary and embarked on a voyage with Community Savings. It all started in the most unassuming of ways, a chance encounter and a request that would set the stage for two decades of tireless dedication. When a director of Community Savings found herself in need of a successor, our volunteer stepped up, attended a board meeting, and accepted the role.

At the start, the commitment demanded that board meetings be squeezed into flexible lunch hours, with evening hours reserved for minute-taking. Richard’s background as a Chartered Secretary proved invaluable. Balancing these obligations alongside contract work in a trust company, where accommodating lunchtime schedules were generously permitted, it was a juggling act that set the tone for years of selfless dedication.

Over the years, the journey led from the humble beginnings on Conway Street to the halls of the Town Hall and eventually to the current offices at Commercial Street. Each move, no matter how challenging, was embraced with enthusiasm, demonstrating a deep-seated commitment to the growth and prosperity of Community Savings.

The significance of Richard’s contribution cannot be measured in numbers alone, but a glance at the financial impact is awe-inspiring. Over two decades, Richard’s voluntary service equates to a substantial financial contribution, almost half a million pounds. Yet, the true value of this service extends far beyond monetary figures.

The heart of any charitable organisation lies in the stories of transformation and empowerment it weaves. Richard has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of Community Savings on individuals, like the individual who once released from prison, faced financial hardship and found a lifeline in Community Savings. With Richard’s guidance, this individual secured financial stability, and the promise of a brighter future. These are the stories that illuminate the path of community service, making it all the more meaningful.

However, what truly sets this Richard apart is his unwavering dedication to the staff and the shared passion for helping others. In an office setting, colleagues may be pleasant to work with, but when shared passion unites, a unique camaraderie emerges, transcending the confines of a conventional workplace. It is this sense of purpose that has fostered collaboration with remarkable individuals, creating an environment of shared values and aspirations.

Community Savings is no ordinary organisation; it operates as a charity on the fringes of the financial world, navigating a complex web of regulations and requirements. As Company Secretary, Richard embraced the challenges, meeting the expectations of an array of regulatory bodies.

Richard helped steer Community Savings, through at times, unchartered territory. The role of Company Secretary was never mundane; it was a dynamic role filled with purpose and responsibility, a role undertaken with passion.

One of the crowning moments of this incredible journey was when Community Savings received the Queen’s Award for Charities, a prestigious accolade that recognises exceptional contributions in the charitable sector.  Richard had the privilege of attending a garden party at Buckingham Palace as part of a small delegation, witnessing the Queen up close and engaging with other attending members of the royal family. It was a moment that encapsulated the significance of the work done by the charity.

As we celebrate Richard’s retirement we salute the dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment that has defined two decades of service to Community Savings. Richard’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder that individual actions can make a profound difference in the lives of others and the community at large. This retirement marks the end of a chapter, but the legacy of his service will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.

In an era dominated by digital transformation and the proliferation of contactless payment options, it might come as a surprise that cash payments are making a resurgence. Recent reports indicate a significant shift in consumer preferences and payment habits, with cash payments experiencing a rise in popularity. In this article, we will explore the evolving landscape of payment methods, highlighting the resurgence of cash payments and the continued prominence of debit cards.

Cash Payments on the Rise

As the world becomes increasingly cashless, it is noteworthy that cash payments are on the rise. According to recent data, a growing number of people are opting for cash as a means to manage their budgets effectively and maintain financial discipline. The resurgence of cash payments can be attributed to several key factors.

Firstly, some individuals find it easier to manage their spending when using physical cash. With cash in hand, it’s easier to gauge how much money is being spent and how much remains, making it a practical tool for budgeting. This tactile approach to finance is particularly appealing to those who prefer a tangible connection to their money.

Secondly, concerns about privacy and data security have prompted some consumers to revisit cash as a viable payment option. In an age where digital transactions can leave behind comprehensive digital trails, cash transactions present a sense of security that resonates with individuals concerned about data security risks.

Additionally, cash is universally accepted and requires no special equipment or technology to use. This makes it accessible to a wide range of individuals, including those who may not have access to digital payment methods or those who prefer not to use them.

Debit Cards Maintain Their Dominance

While cash payments are experiencing a revival, debit cards continue to dominate the payment landscape. Recent statistics show that approximately half of all payments in the country are made using debit cards. This enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors.

First and foremost, debit cards offer convenience and versatility. They can be used for in-person and online transactions, providing a seamless payment experience. The widespread acceptance of debit cards by retailers and businesses further contributes to their popularity.

Moreover, debit cards are closely integrated with banking services, allowing users to monitor their transactions easily, track spending, and manage their finances digitally. This level of control appeals to individuals seeking a modern, technology-driven approach to money management.

The contactless feature of debit cards has also played a significant role in their continued prominence. Contactless payments have become the preferred method for many due to their speed and ease of use. As the contactless payment limit has increased over the years, more transactions can be completed without the need for a PIN, further enhancing the convenience of debit cards.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of payment methods reflects the diverse preferences and needs of consumers. While digital payment options continue to advance, cash payments are experiencing a resurgence driven by individuals seeking effective budget management, privacy, and accessibility.

Debit cards, on the other hand, maintain their dominance due to their convenience, versatility, and integration with modern banking services. Their contactless capabilities have also contributed to their popularity, making them a preferred choice for many.

As the payment landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for financial institutions, businesses, and policymakers to adapt to these changing consumer preferences. Striking a balance between traditional payment methods like cash and the convenience of digital options will be crucial to meeting the diverse needs of the population in the years to come.

Additionally, it is imperative that we emphasise the significance of retaining a cash system, especially for individuals who rely on cash payments. As the saying goes, “Cash is king,” and this age-old payment method continues to play a vital role in ensuring financial accessibility for a diverse range of people. We must remain committed to this cause to prevent disenfranchisement and uphold the principles of accessibility, thereby fostering an inclusive financial ecosystem that accommodates the needs of all individuals.