In our first few weeks of trading, we want to be clear about the principles that guide how we lend.
Responsible lending, to us, means more than ticking a box. It means lending only where it is genuinely affordable, being transparent about the cost of credit, and treating every business on its own merits rather than as a credit score.
What this means in practice
- We assess affordability properly, looking at the company's income and essential outgoings — not just its past.
- We set out the terms of any loan clearly, so you know what you are agreeing to before you sign.
- If your circumstances change, we would far rather hear from you early and agree a way forward than see an account fall behind.
If money becomes tight for the business, support is available. Our online forms let you ask for a payment arrangement, a short extension or a hardship variation, and free, independent advice on business debt is available from Business Debtline (0800 197 6026).
We will return to these themes often. They are central to the kind of lender we intend to be.
Common questions about responsible lending
What does responsible lending mean for a UK business borrower?Responsible lending means the lender checks that the borrowing is genuinely affordable before offering it, explains the terms clearly before you sign, and treats you fairly if your circumstances change. For business borrowers it also means the lender lends to the company, not the director — so there is no pressure on personal finances.
Is there free support if my business is struggling to repay?Yes. Business Debtline (businessdebtline.org / 0800 197 6026) provides free, independent advice to businesses in financial difficulty. You can also contact us directly via our online forms to request a payment arrangement or discuss your options. We would always rather hear from you early.