Equity Release Group has been named the exclusive provider of later life lending advice to StepChange, the UK’s largest debt charity, in a move that aligns financial guidance with support for financially vulnerable clients.
The agreement will see the whole-of-market equity release advisory business – via its Equity Release Supermarket brand – deliver independent advice and digital tools to StepChange clients who may benefit from accessing property wealth in later life.
The collaboration reflects StepChange’s new 2025–2030 strategy, which included a comprehensive review of how best to support those facing problem debt. The charity concluded that Equity Release Group was best placed to offer a broad and regulated suite of later life lending options, including equity release and other solutions, backed by a strong customer service record and digital capability.
Vikki Brownridge, chief executive at StepChange, said the new partnership would ensure better outcomes for clients exploring equity release. “ERG have substantial experience in the later-life lending market, as well as access to a wide range of broader later life lending products,” she said.
“This, combined with their size and a digitally enabled, multi-channel journey, makes them the ideal organisation to help our clients achieve the best outcomes.”
Equity Release Supermarket, the advisory arm of the group, is known for its fee-free advice, independence and use of proprietary technology. Its smartER™ platform allows clients to research products in their own time and supports digital onboarding via an integrated Factfind and Product Confirmation Letter. These tools are built to be accessible and compliant, with additional safeguards for vulnerable consumers.
Mark Gregory (pictured), founder and chief executive at Equity Release Group, said the partnership was about expanding access to appropriate financial solutions. “The partnership will enable us to greatly support those in a financially vulnerable situation, by enhancing StepChange’s range of solutions to customers,” he said.
He added that the firm’s digital-first approach was particularly well suited to StepChange’s client base, offering the flexibility to explore later life lending options independently, but with full support when needed. “As well as our passion for excellence, StepChange’s customers will benefit from our advanced digital capabilities through our advice process, such as our fully integrated digital Factfind and Product Confirmation Letter.”
The exclusive arrangement means StepChange will now refer all equity release enquiries to Equity Release Group, as part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and market access for clients considering ways to improve their financial position in retirement.
Gregory said: “Our aim is always to push for greater accessibility and make it easier for people to explore and access all later life lending solutions. This partnership will allow for a broader product range and greater transparency for consumers in terms of comparing the market, the rates, the features and much more.”
