Intermediary News Roundup – August 2024

Welcome to the intermediary news round up for August 2024.

For this monthly roundup, we reflect on the increased media coverage for our recognition as one of the UK's Best Workplaces for Women. We also dive into how political changes are affecting high-net-worth borrowers and finally look at the impact of Dudley Building Society’s lending, particularly our ongoing support for the HOLD scheme, which has helped people with disabilities achieve homeownership.

Plus, get a sneak peak into all the intermediary events we’ve attended this month! Continue reading to see what we’ve been up to and where we’ve been!

 

In the Press

Throughout August, we have seen a lot of articles published. Here is a selection.  

 

Dudley is named a best workplace for women

In this article, we share the news of our recent recognition as one of the best workplaces for women in 2024. The accolade from Great Place to Work UK highlights our strong commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Vicky Male, our Communication and Engagement Manager at Dudley said: “We’re proud to be ranked as a best workplace for women as we work hard to ensure we engage with our employees, both men and women, communicating regularly, recognising and rewarding staff and have a big focus on equality and inclusion for all."

Check out the full article in the Express and Star: Building society named a best workplace for women

 

New government's potential influence on high-net-worth borrower enquiries

In this article, our Distribution Director, Rob Oliver, explores the potential impact from the new government on the current mortgage market, particularly focusing on actions from high-net-worth borrowers. 

He goes on to speak about how recent political changes could lead to an increase in enquiries from this segment, as they navigate new economic policies and seek opportunities in the UK property market.

Rob Oliver commented: “For those HNW individuals who are UK citizens but are relocating for work — or simply for a better lifestyle — many will look to retain a connection to the UK, often through property. This makes it a good idea for brokers to familiarise themselves with how expat mortgages work or to refresh your knowledge if you are new to expat mortgages or haven’t advised on one in a while” 

Check out the full article in the Financial Reporter: Will the new government lead to a rise in expat enquiries?

 

The importance of mortgage advice for older borrowers

In this article, our Distribution Director, Rob Oliver highlights the important of mortgage advice for older borrowers as every individual has unique circumstances that will require tailored financial guidance.

He states that as borrowers grow older, they will face many challenges such as reduced income, the need for retirement planning and navigating processes like equity release.  

Following this, he emphasises to brokers that they must be highly knowledgeable in these areas to provide the best possible advice to face these challenges head on and make well informed decisions about their mortgages and financial futures.

Rob Oliver commented “They might not go online as much or still be loyal to their original mortgage lender and not be aware of the benefits of a mortgage broker in the same way as a younger borrower. 

This is why it’s also important for brokers to spread the word about the options for older borrowers when marketing and especially for independent financial advisers (IFAs) who might come into contact with older borrowers when giving wider financial advice.” 

Check out the full article in Mortgage Solutions: The importance of mortgage advice for older borrowers

 

Our experience with HOLD and what we offer them as a lender. 

In this article, David Abbey, the Managing Director of MySafeHome Limited, discusses the importance of expanding mortgage services to support borrowers with long-term disabilities. He explains how the Government-backed HOLD (Home Ownership for People with Long-term Disabilities scheme has been instrumental in helping over 1,000 people with disabilities achieve homeownership, which has been life-changing for many.

He then goes on to appreciate Dudley’s support to HOLD, and calls for more lenders to offer support to ensure that people with disabilities can secure and sustain homeownership.

David Abbey commented: “Like us, Dudley recognises the diverse needs of our clients, taking a flexible approach with a friendly, efficient and professional service.

To continue making a real difference, we need more lenders. In return, the applications we submit are, in the words of Dudley, “the best packaged cases we receive.”

Check it out in The Intermediary

 

Events and Conferences

August has been a little quieter than other months. We have attended roadshows and web shows/webinars. Find out where we've been. 


Melton & The Mutuals - Self Build Webinar

On Wednesday, August 14th, our Key Account Manager, Cavina Harrison, joined other leading building societies for a webinar dedicated to self-build projects. 

During the webinar, Cavina highlighted Dudley’s key USPs, and each lender discussed critical topics such as MMC/cladding while providing essential beginner tips for those interested in self-build. Following the presentations, a Q&A session was held to address any remaining questions from attendees.

 

Highlights from our recent work

Find out what we’ve been up to over the past few months for intermediaries:

July 2024 Roundup

June 2024 Roundup 

May 2024 Roundup