Councils typically issue press releases at key moments in the raise process. At launch it is almost universal, and often another is issued in the run up to closing the raise. It is a way to try and secure third party media coverage of the raise, which can help in building awareness and increasing the number of channels in our campaign.
Due to its long form, there is a good opportunity to unpack a lot of the key messaging in the press release. Also it is a chance for lead councillors to have their say and lead the message. If there is a chance to bring the use of funds to life - for example through a visit to a place that will benefit from green measures - this can be a good opportunity to pitch this. We have seen councils have success with local news media outlets and the BBC when taking this tangible approach to the ‘win win’ nature of the investment - see examples below for this.
Risk warning requirements for press releases are specific. We must include the following boiler plate on the release. There is no compulsion for the publications to print it, but it must be included.
If you are choosing to post the press release on your own website as an article, you do not need to include the full boiler plate. In this instance you should use the long form risk warning - which is also the first paragraph of the boiler plate below.
Notes to Editors:
Investments are long term and may be hard to sell. Council investments are not a savings account and you are lending money to a council. Changes in market interest rates may affect the value of your investment if you sell before maturity. Approver: Abundance investment (FRN 525432). Approval date: [xxxxx]
Abundance’s service in relation to council investments (P2P loans) is not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the future.
Holding investments in an IFISA does not reduce the risk of the investment or protect you from losses. You can still lose all your money. It only means that any potential gains from your investment will be tax free. The tax treatment of your investment will depend on your individual circumstances and may change in the future.
[Investment name], which is a loan, is Green Loan Principles compliant and is being issued under a Green Finance Framework. This is a voluntary standard which sets out how the council will meet the Green Loan Principles. This assures investors that funds raised can only be used to help them deliver on eligible green projects from within this framework, and Abundance will monitor the use of funds across the investment term to ensure the principles are being adhered to.
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These examples are hosted on websites as articles, so do not include the full boiler plate above. Also, remember that risk warning copy might vary if the content is older - refer to the guidance above for the latest information.
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