The UK Social Investment Forum has announced the launch of a ‘National Ethical Investment Week’ to run from 18-24 May next year, encouraging people to consider ethical investment options.

The week will build on the growing demand for green and ethical investments – direct investment into which has increased six fold in the past year UKSIF said. The initiative has the backing of Henderson Global Investors, Norwich Union and Friends Provident.

George Latham, head of SRI at Hendersons, said: “The evidence can no longer be ignored: consumer interest in sustainable and responsible investing is continuing to grow rapidly and what was once considered a niche market is proving itself to be a long-term growth trend. This initiative is a welcome and necessary contribution to the ethical debate…”

During the week, financial advisers and other financial organisations will be encouraged to raise awareness of green and ethical investment choices. UKSIF will be providing promotional materials and a central PR campaign to back up local activities.

For more information visit www.uksif.org