I've just come across this thread.
I've had issues with Santander.
I've had issues with Santander.
Debanking in the shooting sector
- Thread starter Conor O'Gorman
- Start date
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8x57
Distinguished Member
Lloyds possibly not quite as shooting friendly as you may think. My wife worked for Lloyds up until a few years ago and mentioned occasional problems with matters shooting related, including refusing to process payment to RFDs when customers were purchasing firearms. On each occasion that it came to her notice my wife acted as an ambassador for the sport and spoke up pointing out that it wasn't international arms smuggling but a legitimate business transaction for lawful sporting goods. She also pointed out that the bank had a club at Bisley (at that time). Most of the problems apparently come down to the ignorance of individual staff members rather than a blanket policy.
My wife spoke highly about one south east RFD who she regularly had contact with. She obviously wouldn't divulge anything bank related only that he was an absolute delight to deal with being extremely courteous and polite.
They started off by demanding copies of insurance, FAC and SGC. That was last October.
Then, a month ago, just after I'd filed my confirmation statement, the bank sent a letter to say they were giving me two months notice. They said that they didn't need to give a reason.
The main part of my business is venison sales. However, perhaps I'd been too honest with the bank, by saying that I did take paying guests out stalking, despite that only being a small part of my business. Why should we have to lie to appease our banks. We want them to look after our money, not to make a judgement on how we make money. Which, is a perfectly legal way to make money.
My accountant advised me to go with Starling. Looking through their terms and conditions, they will not allow businesses to register, who make money through shooting.
I've now set up an account with ANNA Bank.
James
