Handelsbanken’s sustainability work in brief 1
The Bank’s role in the community Handelsbanken ac
ts in a socially responsible manner, contributes to economic development in the community and is available to our customers by running stable, long-term banking operations that focus on customer needs. Many of our customers choose to use our digital channels for their banking transactions. However, they still want to be able to turn to their local branch when needed. That is why we are convinced of the need for local presence, and the basic concept of the Bank’s way of operating is that business decisions are made as close to the customer as possible. This is why we have nationwide networks – more than 750 branches – in our home markets. Our decentralised organisation, where the local branch manager is responsible for all the Bank’s business in its local operating area, means that Handelsbanken is deeply rooted and plays a vital role in the local community. Initiatives in the local community Many of our branches are involved in the local community in initiatives and activities carried out by associations and charities. For example, the branches contribute their knowledge about the economy at schools and universities, advise young entrepreneurs, and participate in various mentor programmes. They are also involved in activities that benefit diversity and integration on the local labour market. Human rights Handelsbanken’s work to protect human rights is based on international norms and agreements. These are based on the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Labour Organization’s core