AIR Sourcing joins Equity Release Council

"We will play a very full part in the workings of the Council especially when it comes to contributing our knowledge and expertise in the product and sourcing sectors."

The sourcing system for equity release and retirement lending products launched in May 2016 and has since grown to 2,000 registered users conducting over 3,200 sourcing sessions each month.

From today, it can use the Council logo to provide reassurance to its users and clients that it abides by its Statement of Principles.

AIR Sourcing will also take the opportunity to feed into the Council’s working groups and committees, considering key issues across the industry, with a specific interest in product make-up, availability and sourcing.

AIR Sourcing is available to registered advisers free of charge and offers products with enhanced terms for members of its sister companies, the Equity Release Club and Later Life Academy who are all part of the Answers in Retirement Group.

Stuart Wilson, Group Managing Director at Answers in Retirement Ltd, commented: “Our overall business has always had a strong relationship with the Equity Release Council and we have been incredibly supportive of its work, particularly in regard to bringing the industry together and banging the drum for the work of those within the sector. AIR Sourcing’s sister organisation, Later Life Academy, recently announced a continued close relationship with the Council which includes discounts on Academy membership plus a range of new training events, so we are very pleased to be able to make AIR Sourcing a full member of the Council.

“We will play a very full part in the workings of the Council especially when it comes to contributing our knowledge and expertise in the product and sourcing sectors. The number of products, and the growing innovation in the marketplace, makes this a very interesting time for the sector and those individuals who may now be able to benefit from an equity release/later life lending solution. The demand is growing and we intend to work with the Council to ensure that advisers get the best product access and that all stakeholders work together to develop solutions for a much wider demographic. We are looking forward to making the most of our membership and helping to enhance the sector for all.”

Donna Bathgate, Chief Operating Officer of the Equity Release Council, added: “I am delighted to welcome another member to The Council. This is testament to the record growth of the equity release sector, as more people consider the benefits of unlocking their housing wealth when financially planning for later life.

“We look forward to working with AIR Sourcing during an exciting time of growth for the market and commend its commitment to provide support to the sector, ensuring that the highest standards of financial advice are delivered to consumers.”