The Cumberland takes its social and ethical responsibilities seriously. As we do not invest our member’s money in stocks and shares, many of the issues normally associated with ethical investment do not apply to us.

All relevant waste (paper, printer cartridges, cardboard and plastic) is recycled and we dispose of old electrical appliances and PCs in an environmentally friendly manner. The Society has been designated a Fair Trade organisation and donates £5 to the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers for every internet banking customer who opts out of receiving paper statements.

Have your say

The Cumberland is your Society and we want you to take an active role in its future. Every year, members are invited to vote on the key resolutions at our Annual General Meeting and we encourage members to exercise their right to vote through our ‘Pledge for Votes’ scheme.

The scheme links a donation to local charities to the number of votes received. We have one of the highest voting percentages of all UK building societies and, in 2009, donated 50p for each vote received to Barnardo's. Thanks to your support, the Society donated £11,475. If you would like to comment on any aspect of the Society, or have suggestions on what we could do better, please email: yoursociety@cumberland.co.uk.