New guidelines for financial services companies will be unveiled at a joint ABI and British Bankers' Association conference today.

The guidelines aim to provide help to financial services firms in addressing corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues.

The announcement follows moves by several companies in the sector who are looking to provide a structured approach to CSR. A joint statement said: "Gone are the days when CSR was seen as a worthy add-on to corporate activity."

Ian Mullen, Chief Executive of the BBA said: "Financial Services companies have been at the forefront of developing corporate social responsibility practice. We are delighted, therefore, to be associated with this new initiative, which will help banks to further develop a structured approach to CSR."

Mary Francis, Director General of the ABI said: "The right approach to social, ethical and environmental issues is vital in adding and preserving value for investors in the companies they own. We welcome this effort to produce guidance on the way forward for financial companies."

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