The mortgage industry has been urged to “take stock and reset” its approach to diversity, equity and inclusion (ED&I) as a new industry-wide survey launches.
William Lloyd-Hayward (main picture, inset), chief operating officer at Brightstar Group, said the sector is at a key moment, five years on from the last major benchmarking exercise.
The latest Working in Mortgages ED&I Viewpoint survey aims to capture how attitudes and experiences across the intermediary and lending market have evolved, and where further progress is needed.
The call comes as the industry continues to face wider structural challenges around recruitment, retention and culture, with firms increasingly focused on building more inclusive workplaces to attract and retain talent.
CONVERSATION STARTER
Lloyd-Hayward said that the original 2021 research played a role in opening up conversations that had previously been avoided, particularly around mental health and representation.
He added: “It’s five years since the last survey and now is the time to take stock and reset. There is a real need to keep the focus on diversity and inclusion invigorated across the industry.
“When I joined the industry, it was difficult for people from the LGBT community to identify allies, let alone role models. That has improved, and the tone of the conversation has changed significantly, but there is still more to do.”
IMPORTANT ROLE
Lloyd-Hayward said visibility had played an important role in his own career and could help others feel more confident in the workplace.
He said: “My workplace gave me the confidence to be open about who I am and to put my head above the parapet. If this survey helps drive more inclusive workplace cultures, that would be a positive step forward for the industry.”
He also called on brokers, lenders and wider industry professionals to take part, even if they do not see ED&I as directly relevant to them.
“It might not feel relevant to you personally right now, but it could be hugely important for your colleagues or future workforce,” he said.
“Taking a few minutes to share your experience can help build a clearer picture and drive meaningful progress across the industry.”
Take the survey HERE.
