Our main aim is to keep our customers happy. It's a serious business and can only happen if our people are happy. And though it's something you won't fully appreciate until you step through our doors, our unique culture is at the heart of this.

Very much a first direct thing, it stems from us being, first and foremost, an inspiring collection of real people rather than bankers.

Friendly experts and providers of exceptional solutions, we believe in people being empowered and valued - not pigeon-holed. However banking develops and whatever technology makes possible, our way of working will continue to be original, straight talking and pioneering. We'll never hold individuals back. We'll never become script reading clones. And we'll never change our view that whilst anyone can be taught financial skills, it's far harder to train wit, charm and warmth.

It's that simple... and that unique.