Kathie’s Story

Kathie (not her real name) is a single mum.  With two children at school she knew her old computer was no longer good enough, and that it was important to get a better computer to help with school assignments and homework, especially for her older child.

She had previously tried to access finance from other sources, including banks, stores, and rental schemes, but they did not believe she would be able to pay them back. “It was humiliating; they really didn’t care and just made me feel like I was nothing.”

After hearing about NILS® through the school, Kathie made an enquiry through SCOAP.

Being successful in applying for a NILS® loan had a number of immediate impacts for the family. “My kids were so excited, and my oldest, my son, was really pleased as it was an important time for him at school and he knew what a difference it would make to his schoolwork”.  It also reduced Kathie’s stress dramatically. “It was a real worry not being able to provide the kids with the tools they need.  It's so much better now, and so I'm so relieved and happy”.

Successfully paying off the NILS® loan also gave Kathie a sense of achievement. “I’m so proud of myself, knowing I could do it. I’ve actually paid off something new and quite valuable that we needed, and it’s ours now, not rented”.