Scotwest has improved its free protection benefits for life savings and loans.

Up to a maximum value of £5000, every £1 in savings will be matched by £1 of benefit. Unsecured debt is also protected to a level of £15,000. Kenny Macleod, chief executive, said only a credit union could offer such a level of free benefits to savers and borrowers. The union will next launch a pre-approved car loan facility at an ultra-low interest rate.