Countrywide Surveying Services (CSS), a supplier of valuation panel management services, has become an associate member of the Equity Release Council.

CSS says its Council membership demonstrates its commitment to later life lending and the provision of its full range of valuation, survey and panel management services to lending partners specialising in this growing sector.

The Equity Release Council represents the equity release sector and exists to promote high standards of conduct and practice in the provision of and advice on equity release which have consumer safeguards at its heart.

Matthew Cumber (pictured), managing director at Countrywide Surveying Services, said: “Given the shifting demographics of the UK population and changing consumer attitudes, the later life lending sector will play an increasingly prominent role within the wider mortgage market going forward and we, as a business, will continue to support our lending partners in this important sector.

“The Equity Release Council is playing a key role to grow the sector and we are committed to ensuring that positive outcomes remain available for the end consumer.”

Jim Boyd, CEO of the Equity Release Council, added: “As an organisation, we are committed to ensuring that consumers receive good outcomes throughout the entire process of releasing equity from their homes – whether it is from the advisers, lenders or service providers.

“We are therefore delighted to welcome Countrywide Surveying Services as associate members and look forward to supporting the team as they further develop their expertise in this growing market.”