Climate change action together

Unite, the UK and Ireland’s largest union, and The Co-operative Bank have pledged to join forces to demand urgent action on climate change.

To support the campaign on climate action the bank has become the first financial services institution to support its workforce in participating in the Global Climate Strike protests taking place across the country today (Friday 20 September).

“This joint work is a remarkable statement by a financial services institution. Unite is extremely proud that The Co-operative Bank has recognised the importance of enabling its workforce to join the Global Climate Strike,” Unite national officer Rob MacGregor said.

“Climate change is without question the challenge of our generation and clearly has a compelling resonance with The Co-operative Bank’s ethical commitments, as well as Unite national policy.

“Unite and the bank are actively supporting members and colleagues to attend local demonstrations where they are occurring, notwithstanding that appropriate cover will be needed to ensure that service is maintained for customers.

He added, “Unite hopes that other employers would follow this outstanding example set by The Co-operative Bank and support their workforce in making their voice for climate action to be heard.”

Demonstrations are planned around the country, including Manchester, Leek and London. The events that staff from The Co-operative Bank are invited to support are:

Manchester

The event in Manchester will be in St Peter’s Square from 10am to 1pm with a march around Manchester taking place from 1 pm to 2 pm.

Leek

Demonstrators will assemble at Leek Monument on Derby Street from 12:00 pm.

London

Demonstrators have already assembled at Millbank from 11:00 am.

Other locations

If there’s a Global Climate Change demonstration planned in your location today, Friday 20 September, colleagues can take part subject to business needs.

Details of other local demonstrations can be found at https://globalclimatestrike.net