July 11, 2019

Nigel Waterson, Chairman of The Council, writes

I was really pleased that this year’s Great Retirement Money Debate was so successful with a record attendance.  And it showed that we are not afraid to tackle serious issues like mental capacity in older consumers.  The line-up of speakers was truly impressive.

Our White Paper was published shortly after the snap election was announced.  But despite that, it attracted considerable coverage and an audience of over 100 in a Commons committee room.  Post election we are engaging with new ministers and politicians of all parties.

The White Paper itself is a serious and well-researched document, placing equity release firmly in its social and economic context.  And it also signals that the sector has truly come of age.

Recently, your Board held a strategy awayday to map The Council’s plans for the next few years.  Following this, we will be redefining our structures and project focus, as well as re-emphasising our commitment to consumers.  And we will be looking closely at all opportunities in the changing later life lending landscape.  The Board had no doubt the sector is poised for even faster growth.

Whenever I chat to members, they invariably report that they are busy and their business is expanding.  There is a major surge in equity release activity at present, mirrored by genuine and constructive media interest.

And finally, a huge thank you to all who took part in our latest Members’ Survey.  The responses will help us design The Council’s activities to reflect the needs of our members, large and small.  There will be an update on the survey soon.

Nigel Waterson

Chairman, Equity Release Council

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