Key Equity Release has entered a partnership with pension specialist Pense as it looks to provide more joined-up advice for customers considering later life lending.

The arrangement reflects growing demand for broader retirement planning support, with some customers needing guidance that goes beyond property wealth and equity release alone.

Doncaster-based Pense, founded in 2021, works with major pension providers and offers access to retirement products including annuities and flexi-access drawdown advice. Its platform provides annuity rate data and market comparisons, while clients are assigned a dedicated representative or adviser.

Key said the move was intended to support customers whose retirement income planning involves both housing wealth and pension assets, and comes amid continued regulatory focus on customer outcomes and more integrated advice.

Rachel East, senior director at Key Equity Release, said: “Our partnership with Pense reflects our commitment to delivering truly holistic support for customers in later life and is an important step in ensuring customers feel confident that every aspect of their finances is being considered.

“Equity release is often just one part of a much broader retirement planning picture. By working closely with pension specialists, we can ensure customers receive more rounded, joined-up advice that considers their property wealth alongside their pension income and long-term financial goals.

“This approach not only aligns with the FCA’s direction of travel, but most importantly, helps us achieve better outcomes for the people we support.”

Richard Morrall, CEO at Pense added: “We look forward to working with Key Equity Release and helping their customers meet their retirement needs.

“All types of advisers should be working more collaboratively rather than focusing solely on their own specialism so that clients can assess all their options in a fully transparent way which benefits them and puts them in a better financial position.”