Photo: Helen Elwes (back right) with Laudato Si’ Animators at the No Faith in Fossil Fuels vigil, London – photo credit: Sr MaryAnne Francalanza FcJ
Where we bank matters.
This Lent, how can you care for our Common Home? By switching to a greener bank!
The Laudato Si’ Movement is joining with our friends at JustMoney Movement, Operation Noah and Just Love to invite Christians across the UK to take a practical step for climate justice by switching from banks funding fossil fuels to a greener, more ethical bank.
Why Does This Matter?
Fossil fuel expansion is the driving cause of the climate crisis. Since the Paris Agreement, the five largest high street banks in the UK – Barclays, HSBC, Santander, Natwest and Lloyds – have provided $556 billion to the fossil fuel industry. In 2023 alone, these five banks financed companies expanding fossil fuel production with almost $25 billion.
By switching to ethical banks, we send a powerful message to financial institutions: it’s time to stop funding the destruction of our planet.
This campaign builds on growing momentum, following a statement signed by 70 Christian organisations—including Catholic religious orders and charities—urging major UK banks to end fossil fuel financing.
Choosing an Ethical Bank
“I began to look at my own everyday actions in relation to the climate and ecological emergency. As I realised how we are all connected, how every action we take affects God’s creation positively or negatively, I knew that I needed to put my own house in order.
I had banked with Santander for years, and the thought of changing made me nervous, as I felt I had built up a relationship of trust with my bank. But as I became aware that they were one of the UK’s top five fossil fuel funders, I realised I couldn’t put off making this change any longer.
I looked into ethical banks and realised that Nationwide was a good alternative – plus they had a branch right opposite my old bank! They even gave me a joining bonus!
The whole process went smoothly – my new bank took care of everything and switched my Direct Debits and Standing Orders automatically. It was much easier than I expected, and I’m so glad I’ve finally made the move and can bank with a clear conscience, knowing my money supports a better future.”
— Helen Elwes, Laudato Si’ Animator and member of the Blackfriars Laudato Si’ Circle, Oxford, who joined the Big Bank Switch in 2024
Join the Big Bank Switch today!
If you’re in the UK, you can take a powerful step towards a more sustainable future by making a pledge to switch to an ethical bank. Visit the Big Bank Switch to find FAQs, resources, and practical guidance to help you make the transition smoothly.
Why Pledge?
There is strength in numbers—every pledge adds momentum to our collective call for change. By signing up, you commit to switching when it works best for you.
Make a pledge to switch to a greener bank
Already With an Ethical Bank?
You can still make a difference!
✅ Log your switch on the pledge form retrospectively to ensure you are counted as part of our collective call for change!
✅ Spread the word—encourage friends, family, and your church to switch.
✅ Organize a Switch It Sunday—get your whole church involved.
✅ Tell your old bank why you left—send a message, adapt our template letter, or visit your local branch.
Together, this Lent, we can reshape the financial system for the good of our planet! 🌍✨