Donal Traynor
Group Chief Executive, Community Finance Ireland
Across Ireland, volunteer trustees and staff are the backbone of our social fabric — running community centres, sports clubs and vital social enterprises.
Yet, despite the enormous value they deliver, many are being asked to put their personal financial security on the line just to secure a loan for their organisation. It’s a practice that must end.
Ending unfair loan guarantees
As a social finance provider, we are on a mission to eradicate the use of personal guarantees in community-based lending. We’ve witnessed firsthand how this outdated requirement is not only counterproductive but deeply damaging. In one case, we refinanced a loan of over €500,000 that had been underpinned by a single individual’s personal guarantee. In another case, an employee of a not-for-profit was prepared to offer their home as collateral. This is not just unsustainable — it’s unjust.
The human cost of personal guarantees
Personal guarantees place an unacceptable burden on individuals working in an already heavily governed sector. The risk of losing personal assets, coupled with the stress of financial liability, is a serious mental health concern. It deters people from volunteering or taking up leadership roles — precisely the kind of community engagement Ireland needs more of, not less.
Building stronger communities
should never come at the
cost of personal sacrifice.
Our approach is different
We provide straightforward finance for social good. With dedicated Client Relationship Managers who live and work in the communities they serve, we bring local knowledge, understanding and a commitment to fair, fast and flexible lending. From initial enquiry to loan drawdown, we’re here to guide, support and empower.
We believe that no one should be asked to mortgage their peace of mind to fund community impact. If you are currently being asked to provide a personal guarantee, or have done so in the past, we want to hear from you.
Together, let’s rewrite the rules of community finance — and remove this unnecessary barrier to progress and participation. Building stronger communities should never come at the cost of personal sacrifice.
Reach out to us on communityfinanceireland.com
