Awards, FInance, News

Unity Trust Bank named Socially Responsible Lender of the Year

The National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) has awarded the prestigious accolade of ‘Socially Responsible Lender of the Year’ to Unity Trust Bank.

The awards ceremony, which took place virtually on Thursday 26th November 2020, was held by the UK’s largest independent trade body for commercial finance brokers to celebrate excellence across the industry.

A total of 57 lender patrons were shortlisted across 14 categories, showcasing the breadth of talent within the sector, from asset financers to CBIL providers, commercial mortgage lenders and more. The ‘Socially Responsible Lender of the Year’ category was introduced for the first time this year, seeking to award Patrons whose core purpose is ethical banking.

As a commercial lender for businesses and organisations that deliver social value, the award win recognises Unity Trust Bank’s work with Responsible Finance intermediaries, social enterprises, charities and other community-focused organisations in the UK.

In 2019, Unity distributed £13.6m to 278 customers, with an additional £12.5m of affordable finance provided to 207 organisations in the first half of 2020. This included a £7.5m loan to the not-for-profit Business Enterprise Fund, and £1.5m for Let’s Do Business Finance, to support provisions of CBILs for hundreds of small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Commenting on the recognition, Regional Director Linda Martin said: “We are extremely proud of this award win, which recognises our commitment to driving positive change within the community.

“Last year, Unity’s lending enabled the provision of 1,188 bed spaces, provided housing for 437 people and developed 28 community facilities, as well as protecting or creating 672 jobs. As our loan book continues to grow, so too does our support for organisations across the UK who are making a difference in society.

“We have really valued being a Patron of the NACFB since joining in July 2019, and it has been a pleasure working with the Association to highlight the support that we can offer the SME sector.”