In 1992, The Co-operative Bank launched its ethical policy after customers said they'd like to see their money invested ethically. From day one, it was decided that the policy should reflect the ethical concerns of customers on the basis that it's customers' money which is being invested.

smile customers were invited to take part in the 2008 Ethical Policy vote and had their say on the ethical and environmental issues that matter to them such as human rights, animal welfare, fair trade and climate change. Almost 80,000 smile and The Co-operative Bank customers took the time to participate in the consultation, demonstrating that even in these challenging times, our customers are more engaged with an ethical approach to banking than ever.

Because of your support the bank can act secure in the knowledge that we have an overwhelming mandate from customers on a range of new ethical issues.

For more information on the results of the latest Ethical Policy review and to see the new policy statements visit our good with money website.

Since 1992, The Co-operative Bank and smile have withheld over £1 billion of their customers’ money from businesses whose activities conflict with the policy.

Thanks to your support we’ve said no to:
Over £465 million of loans to businesses that conflicted with customer’s environmental concerns;
Over £210 million to businesses that conflicted with customer’s ethical concerns for animal welfare;
Over £300 million of loans to businesses that conflicted with customer’s concerns for human rights and international development.