Following the introduction of an Ethical Policy in 1992, The Co-operative Bank has withheld over £1bn of funding from business activities that its customers say are unethical. Whilst at the same time, increasing its total commercial lending to almost £9bn. In 2011, this screening activity was extended to the investments underpinning key insurance products. We remain independent and strong, increasing lending to business by over 40% in the last four years.
We work with CARE International UK to support lendwithcare.org, an innovative scheme whereby people in the UK can lend small sums of money to entrepreneurs in the developing world to help grow their business.
We believe that when undertaken equitably, trade and finance have an unparalleled capacity to enhance quality of life, and are proud to have led the way in this.
For some two decades we have ensured that the money entrusted to us by our bank customers is used in accordance with their ethical priorities.
We want to ensure that everyone, no matter where they live or what their financial situation, can access quality products and services without an ethical compromise.
From minibuses to walking buses, thousands of schools, community groups and charities across the UK are benefiting from our work in the community. Find out how we're making a difference in your community.
From campaigning to help save pollinators or supporting a Clean Energy Revolution, to becoming a member and supporting Fairtrade, there are lots of ways to get involved and take action.