A SHOWROOM with a difference has opened on Redcar High Street, offering low interest loans to help residents buy furniture and household appliances at cheaper prices.

Moneywise@Home opened on Friday offering new and quality second-hand white goods such as cookers, fridges and washing machines as well as smaller items like kettles, toasters and microwaves.

The shop at 14 High Street, Redcar is run by Moneywise credit union in partnership with Redcar & Cleveland Council on a not-for-profit basis and is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm.

Chief executive of Moneywise Paul Burton said: “This is an important development for Redcar, enabling vulnerable households to access affordable credit to buy the essential household items they need.

“The combination of new and re-used furniture ensures there is something to suit a wide range of budgets. We want to work with our customers to repair their credit history by saving and borrowing with the credit union.”

Cabinet member for housing and neighbourhood renewal Cllr Lynn Pallister said: “The credit union has reported a significant increase in demand following the introduction of the Government’s welfare reform changes and it is vital that we work together to support our residents who are struggling to make ends meet.”