SHIP (Safe Home Income Plans) the UK equity release industry body representing over 90% of the equity release sector, today welcomed its newest member. Retirement Plus. Retirement Plus was granted membership at the begining of June and brings the total number of SHIP members to twenty.*

Retirement Plus launched in November 2005. Retirement Plus has sought SHIP members in order to support it ambitious plans for expansion in the equity release sector.

SHIP represents over 90% of the equity release sector and a vigorously enforced Code of Practice and porfessional Rule of Conduct bind all of its members. All providers who apply to join SHIP must have products and processes that comply exactly with the SHIP Code of Rules. This ensures that IFAs and consumers can trust the quality and integrity of products from SHIP member compnanies.

Jon King, Chaiman of SHIP commented:

“We are delighted to welcome Retirement Plus to SHIP. As the second equity release provider to gain admittance to SHIP in this year this means we have already equalled the total for 2005. As the criteria for SHIP membership is so strict this is an extremely positive indication that equity release providers are taking their responsbilities to their customers seriously.”

Duncan Young, Cheif Executive of Retirement Plus added:

“Retirement Plus has always operated to the highest standard and receiving membership of SHIP is a demonstration of our dedication to product integrity, customer service, honestly and clarity. We look forward to being an active participant in all SHIP’s endeavours in the future.”