Accord Mortgages has joined the Pride in Finance Alliance, a decision the lender says underscores its long-term commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion across the mortgage industry.
The Alliance, established to support LGBT+ colleagues, brokers and clients, was founded in response to the Financial Conduct Authority’s Financial Lives Survey, which revealed a stark confidence gap in financial services among LGBT+ people. According to the survey, 44% of LGBT+ individuals said they had no confidence in the industry, compared with just 25% of non-LGBT+ respondents.
By aligning with the Pride in Finance Alliance, Accord Mortgages commits to fostering a workplace free from discrimination, with measures spanning inclusive training, policy development and opportunities for career advancement that reflect the needs of LGBT+ employees and intermediaries.
The intermediary-only lender said the move builds on its broader work to embed inclusivity across the business. This includes its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Partnership Charter, which sets out clear expectations not only for internal practices but also for those the firm works with externally.
Much of this work is channelled through Accord’s Proud Network, a colleague-led group that promotes openness, individuality and belonging. The lender believes this culture is key to improving the experience of its staff, partners, brokers and their clients – ultimately contributing to a more resilient and representative business.
Geddy Meguyer, senior manager for mortgage and enabling services, has led Accord’s involvement in the Alliance and also co-chairs the Proud Network.
He said: “This move demonstrates our commitment to fostering an open and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community and giving greater confidence in the UK financial services industry.
“We’ve been very impressed by the commitment the Pride in Finance Alliance has made to improving diversity, equity and inclusion across the industry. Signing up as a supporter was a natural next step for us.”
Nicola Alvarez, head of strategic partnerships and propositions and Accord’s lead for diversity, equity and inclusion, added: “As a key voice in the mortgage industry, we’re looking forward to engaging with the alliance and its resources, supporting our colleagues and industry partners even more, as we reinforce our commitment in this space.”
Amy Loddington, joint lead at the Pride in Finance Alliance, welcomed the lender’s involvement.
“We are so pleased to welcome Accord Mortgages to the Pride in Finance Alliance. PIFA’s goal is to harness the combined wisdom, best practice and dedication to progress of firms of all sizes and to work together to drive meaningful change across our industry – and the addition of Accord strengthens this collective effort.
“We look forward to sharing the results of our recent research as a benchmark for the next 12 months of the Alliance and to working closely with businesses across the sector in the months ahead. Together, we will continue shaping the PIFA agenda and advancing inclusion for LGBTQ+ people across financial services.”
