• New research finds more than half of people (54%) think big global banks “don’t care” about small communities

• Two-thirds (65%) of people think banks should play an active role in lending in local communities, not just providing financial services

• Three out of five (59%) believe banks have a responsibility to support positive change in the communities of their customers

• A third (36%) of those asked say healthcare services and support is a where more investment is needed, followed closely by environmental initiatives like green spaces and climate adaptation (34%), and support for local high streets and small businesses (33%).

“Greed, for the lack of a better word, is good.” Investor Gordon Gekko declared in the iconic film Wall Street. Banks and financial institutions don’t always trigger the best emotions and that sentiment is often played out on film and TV.

But these stereotypes often do relate to how the British public feels in real life, particularly when it comes down to local areas. New research finds more than half of people (54%) think big banks “don’t care” about small communities. Meanwhile, only about one in three (29%) think their bank supports positive change in their local area.

This, despite clear expectations across the UK that banks should be supporting positive change across the UK. Two-thirds (65%) of people think banks should play an active role in supporting local communities, not just providing financial services. And three out of five (59%) believe banks have a responsibility to support positive change in the communities of their customers.

Across the UK, people are clear about what their local communities need, and it goes far beyond quick fixes with investment priorities reflecting both immediate pressures and long-term desires. Topping the list, a third (36%) of those asked say health services and support is a where more investment is needed, followed closely by environmental initiatives like green spaces and climate adaptation (34%), and support for local high streets and small businesses (33%).

The findings further paint a picture of a public deeply invested in the future of their local areas, concerned not just with economic vitality, but with sustainability, energy independence, housing, and protecting vulnerable people.

Yet that sense of care is matched by frustration with about two out five (39%) feeling they have no say in how investment decisions are made locally. Less than a quarter (23%) of people are aware that other financial approaches, such as business lending from banks, or innovative financing methods such as crowdfunding can also be used to fund projects that improve local communities.

As the end of the financial year approaches and a new one begins, there are options for ethical and sustainable ISAs and investment schemes for those looking to have their money used to back UK projects and causes that could make a difference to local communities.

Options for investments that can bring financial and community focused rewards are out there for those looking to try and make a difference to locally.

To speak to environmental Campaigner Lizzie Carr or Roger Hattam, Director of retail banking, Triodos Bank UK, contact newsroom@markettiers.com

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