Debanking of shooting clubs and businesses are thankfully now fewer in number. However, for those affected, it remains a devastating and stressful experience. BASC will help sort things out wherever possible.

Being told that a bank account is being closed, restricted or refused can be alarming for any individual, club, shoot or business. For those connected with lawful shooting and conservation, it can also feel unfair and difficult to challenge, particularly when little explanation is offered.

If you believe you have been debanked because of your involvement in shooting, firearms, or game management please BASC’s Head of Policy and Campaigns, Conor O’Gorman at conor.ogorman@basc.org.uk for advice and help in resolving the issue.

What is debanking?

Debanking is the withdrawal, refusal or restriction of banking services. It may involve the closure of a current account, the refusal of a new account, the withdrawal of card or payment facilities, or additional requirements being imposed without a clear commercial reason.

Banks are entitled to manage risk and comply with the law, but members should not be treated unfairly simply because they take part in lawful shooting activities, run a shooting-related business, or manage a club or syndicate responsibly.

Debanking review

In 2024, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) published a report on debanking. BASC provided evidence to the investigation about how shooting was being discriminated against, based on feedback from clubs and businesses.

The FCA was clear in its recommendations. Banks should not deny or terminate accounts on spurious, unfairly biased or discriminatory grounds. The regulator expected firms to ensure decisions were based on reasonable and properly considered grounds. This included cases where “reputational risk” was cited as a reason for account denial or termination.

Improvements to banking services

Since 2024, the FCA has been working with banks on implementing its recommendations. BASC has been in discussion with UK Finance, the trade association for the UK financial services sector, to build greater understanding between banks and shooting clubs and businesses.

Click here for UK Finance banking advice for our sector

The previous Government published proposals requiring banks to provide 90 days’ notice and a clear written explanation before closing accounts. The current Government carried those proposals forward. The rule changes took effect on 28 April 2026. There is a catch, however. The rules on account closures only apply to new accounts opened on or after that date.

Furthermore, banks may still freeze or close accounts immediately without providing the standard notice period. This can happen if they suspect money laundering, fraud or other financial crimes.

However, the changes are still a step in the right direction. They improve accountability in decision-making. A written explanation will also strengthen cases taken to the Financial Ombudsman Service.