Sustainability is rooted in our values

Two of our key business principles, reciprocity and stability, rely on us recognising our own responsibility to make a positive societal impact.

The world is in the middle of a profound transition when it comes to sustainability, and we recognise the role we must play in that transition.

This means operating with a strong emphasis on our environmental and societal impact, and on our governance procedures.

We approach ESG by measuring the impact from our practices and outputs across five categories: Governance, Employees, Community, Environment and Clients.

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Solar panels arranged on a green hillside

An evolution is underway. Climate change is recognised as an important topic for consumers and investors alike. In parallel, inclusive growth and the impact organisations have on society is increasingly a focus.

More than ever before, organisations are being held accountable for their impacts on society. We focus on how we can improve to build a future that delivers growth, sustainability, and inclusion.

We care

Governance

We have a solid system of governance in place, endorsing the principles of openness, integrity, and accountability which underlie good corporate governance. The Bank operates to high standards of corporate accountability with an effective Board and Board committees.
 

Employees

Our colleagues and culture set us apart from others in our industry. As a relationship-led bank, our colleagues are at the centre of our consideration. We strive to create a working environment that ensures people are treated fairly and that their wellbeing is supported.
 

Community

We support philanthropy. We give back to our local communities and to causes we believe in as a bank and locally. We have supported young entrepreneurs for six years via our Inspiring Innovators programme and promote fundraising throughout the Bank.

Clients

Relationships with our clients are at the heart of what we do. We take the time to understand what is important to our clients so we can be confident that we are working in their best interests, for business, for family, for life. A relationship-led bank, every single one of our clients has a dedicated relationship manager there to guide and support them.
 

Environment

We take a long-term view. We recognise – as a business – that our carbon footprint needs to become net-zero. This reduction is not just an environmental imperative, but a business one as well. We are committed to having net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Our policies relating to ESG in detail

We have a solid system of governance in place

We have a solid system of governance in place, endorsing the principles of openness, integrity and accountability which underlie good corporate governance. We operate to high standards of corporate accountability with an effective Board and Board committees. This, together with the role and overall holding of Sir Henry Angest, the ultimate majority shareholder, and compliance with PRA and FCA regulations, is fundamental to our success as a business.

The following bank policies are directly linked to governance:

  • Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy
  • Anti-Money Laundering Policy
  • Client Acceptance Policy
  • Group Market Abuse and Insider Dealing Policy
  • Whistleblowing Policy