Meet the Community Group-Down to Zero Ltd.

Tell us about your group/organisation and your involvement.

Down to Zero are a community benefit society and subsidiary of Cynon Taf Community Housing Group, established to provide opportunities in the green economy. This includes land and nature-based training and volunteering opportunities such as tree-planting, vegetable growing, charcoal/biochar creation, beekeeping and traditional woodwork opportunities

Congratulations on your recent 'One to watch' Cwmpas Award! Can you tell us more about it?

Yes, the one to watch award is a prestigious one, it means we are one of the Social enterprises in Wales to watch out for. The awards are run by Cwmpas and Social Business Wales and recognise some of the most impactful social businesses in Wales

Why chose Smart Money Cymru Community Bank?

It’s a local bank and it’s so important to support local economy and jobs. Establishing a bank account for a social business is not easy but Smart money Cymru made the process quick and easy.

What are the benefits for your group, do you think?

Without Smart money cymru we would not have been able to accept funding or cash in payments, so it’s been of absolute importance to us as a social business. We are currently looking into the payroll saving system as well. SMC also support local community groups and venues and that localised economy is so important to us.

With no external shareholders and a focus on cooperative principles - how important is the ethical aspect of SMC?

Extremely, owned by locals, creating local jobs for local people. This is a principle we support at Down to Zero and is so important for creating more resilient localised economies.

What about the online banking aspect and 24/7 access to your account – is that an important consideration for your group?

Yes – being able to go online, see our cash balance, download statements for live updates for management and the board is essential for social businesses.

Finally, how easy was setting up your account with SMC?

Very easy, highly recommend it.

Thanks for taking part in the Q&A.

Diolch

Find out more here: www.down-to-zero.co.uk