We have launched a new campaign to draw attention to the need for the National Trust to move its finances away from Barclays. 

We really really hoped there would not be need of any further protests after our campaign in 2024, but the National Trust is still banking with an institution that seems committed to unethical and destructive investment, and whose organisational values seem so at odds with theirs. 

We are inviting you to visit your local National Trust site, or maybe visit one when you are on holiday, take a sign reminding the National Trust about the need to bank more ethically (‘National Trust Drop Barclays’ and ‘I love the National Trust, not Barclays’ are good ones) and then send us a photo for our social media. Or push the boat out and do something theatrical and send us your best picture. 

Be peaceful, creative, and respectful, to show the National Trust that we love them, but that their banking arrangement with Barclays runs contrary to their responsibilities to safeguard and care for our heritage. We are specifically asking that people not do anything disruptive, and not do anything inside any of your properties. We want ordinary people to be able to enjoy their visit, and we want your staff and volunteers to be able to engage constructively with protesters.

We’ve called our campaign ‘A Summer of Picnics’ because we’d love for you to have a picnic wherever you go and whatever you do – it’s a representation of the generosity and care that we want institutions like the National Trust to embody. And there is love and magic in the simple act of sharing food. 

And our definition of summer is generous, we’re thinking any time between now and the end of October.

We have created an action guide to help you plan, whether it’s a quick snap on a family day out with our ready to print sign, or a dressing up as your favourite Beatrix Potter characters, or giving your citizen survey boards an outing. 

Have a good time and help save the planet!