National brokerage Just Mortgages has become the latest firm to join the Equity Release Council.

Just Mortgages is committing to meets the council’s high standards for integrity, transparency and best practice, as well as adhering to the council’s strict code of conduct and overarching principles of acting in good faith and in the best interests of the customer to deliver suitable outcomes.

The firm become authorised to advise on equity release four years ago. Previously, Just Mortgages worked closely with trusted providers to operate a referral service to cater to clients needing access to the market.

As part of its academy programme, Just Mortgages offers an extensive training course for self-employed brokers that want to advise on equity release and later life borrowing. So far, Just Mortgages has trained 24 self-employed advisers who are qualified and licensed to offer expert advice on equity release options.

Ashley Edwards, financial services director at Just Mortgages, said: “With the equity release market continuing to show significant growth, our membership of the Equity Release Council demonstrates to homeowners that Just Mortgages is a trusted source of impartial advice on later life products and services.

“In an environment where homeowners are looking to enhance their retirement income or support the next generation, equity release and later life borrowing are becoming key parts of the wider mortgage mix. However, equity release may not always be the right option, making solid financial advice from a qualified broker an essential part of any decision making process.

“It’s fantastic to see our holistic approach to later life lending recognised by the council.”