Founded in 1986, nef is an independent think-and-do tank that inspires and demonstrates real economic well-being by putting people and the planet first. By combining rigorous analysis and policy debate with on the ground practical solutions, nef aims to improve quality by promoting innovative solutions that challenge mainstream thinking on economic, environmental and social issues by working with all sections of society in the UK and abroad—from civil society, to government, businesses, academia and individuals.

At the heart of nef’s work is a commitment to creating and measuring progress towards increased well-being, economic and social justice, and environmental sustainability. nef believes that appropriate and affordable financial services should be available to all—from an individual looking to open a bank account, to an enterprise looking for a loan, to a small business looking for equity investment. By increasing access to financial services, for example, individuals are provided with the opportunity to improve their standard of living by realising savings enabled by being fully banked, through a loan to start a new business, or by investing in education and training. In addition, access to finance can increase current and future resilience, for example through insurance, or by opening of a savings account for a child.

nef’s work is dedicated to looking at how to increase access to such services by:

• Proposing policy reform measures
• Advocating for greater disclosure and transparency by banks and other private financial institutions to tackle financial exclusion
• Researching and supporting the development of the social investment and community development sector as a means to increase access to finance
• Developing innovative financial products and delivery mechanism to meet the needs of local people and communities
• Providing training and consulting services to help raise awareness and knowledge of new financial mechanism to help support and bolster local economic renewal