Programme updates

Aviva has been ranked ninth out of the FTSE350 index in The Observer Good Companies Guide.

This is the second year the guide, which is compiled in conjunction with Co-operative Asset Management and assesses companies according to a range of social, environmental and ethical criteria, has been published.

We were singled out for our work in seeking to shape policy and promoting consistency in climate change matters.

Louella Eastman, group CSR director, said: "In a time of difficult economic conditions where many businesses are struggling, devoting management attention to social and environmental issues may seem questionable. However, another way to view this is that the economic downturn makes corporate integrity and responsibility even more important.

"Our CSR strategy ensures that we act responsibly over the long term in how we do business. CSR is the responsible management of our relationships with customers, employees, suppliers and shareholders and managing our impact on society and the environment."