Peter Burrows, who runs the Conservatory Café in Killinchy, said his bank account has been suspended twice in the past six years – disruptions that have significantly affected his ability to operate.

Burrows explained that the first suspension happened after his bank requested an annual statement, despite his café being open only for ten months at the time. “I was shut off from my banking for three weeks,” he said. “They were happy to take my credit card payments, but wouldn’t allow me to pay suppliers or make direct payments.” The same issue recurred last year due to a problem involving his state pension. “You just think, what is this all about?” he added. “The banks don’t care – it’s just box-ticking.”

Burrows’ experience reflects wider frustrations in the business community. The Federation of Small Businesses in Northern Ireland (FSB NI) recently surveyed over 300 members and found that newer businesses were more likely to be denied banking services – a trend that could hinder economic growth. Chair of FSB NI, Alan Lowry, said the findings are “worrying” and emphasised that effective banking is vital for small business survival. “Cash flow is the lifeblood. When that’s disrupted, businesses struggle to manage day-to-day operations,” he said.

Lowry also warned that inadequate banking support is pushing some businesses toward alternative lenders with high interest rates and unfavourable terms.

While David Raw from UK Finance said the banking sector is evolving to meet business needs – pointing to digital options and banking hubs – many small firms still feel abandoned. Lowry stressed the urgent need for banks to become “trusted partners” once again.