Financial Inclusion
HBOS is the first major bank to publish a target (15%) for new social banking account openings. We exceeded this target in 2007 with a 19.3% share of new accounts. In the first quarter of 2008, we opened 30,009 accounts, a market share of 15.4%.
We aim to continue punching above our weight in this important field, with a particular focus where appropriate on our heartlands in Scotland and Yorkshire.
We are the first bank to publish a comprehensive Financial Inclusion Report with detailed data on our activities. This is available by clicking here
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We have six central objectives:
- To maintain a strong high street presence
- To maintain our position as a market leading provider of social bank accounts.
- To encourage the provision of micro-finance for those on low incomes by offering funding and administrative support to expert organisations
- To encourage asset ownership through savings schemes like the Saving Gateway; Halifax is the only financial institution to have piloted this project on behalf of the Treasury. Also, through our activity to help first time buyers, key workers and social tenants onto the home ownership ladder.
- To actively support the provision of financial advice and education by working with specialists in the not for profit sector.
- To extend our presence in local communities, offering employment opportunities and support for local projects.
