Owl Financial, Openwork’s specialist protection advice business, is helping its advisers to be among the first to complete the new professional qualification for the industry with The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF).

Over 50 Owl advisers and managers have registered for the Certificate in Protection (CertPro) qualification, which is aimed at filling a gap in the advice landscape and providing increased confidence for advisers and their customers.

One manager has already passed the qualification.

The specialist business helped design the qualification with other firms.

CertPro, which was launched by LIBF in September, focuses on the different protection needs in the event of death, illness, or disability as well as the products and their suitability plus the application and underwriting process.

The qualification also covers the protection provided by the government and insurance details for the home, landlords and self-builds.

Pat McKenna, sales director at Owl, said: “Owl is constantly looking at how we can support our advisers in further enhancing their skills and their professional development and we are delighted that one of our advisers has become the first person to complete the CertPro qualification.

“Supporting the development and launch of CertPro underlines our commitment to delivering excellent customer service and demonstrating the professionalism of advisers.”

John Somerville, head of financial services at the LIBF, added: “There’s a real protection gap in our society, but there’s never been a more important time to build financial resilience.

“This qualification will not only help advisers meet the needs of a growing market but will build understanding among consumers about the value of protection advice and what products they should have in place. We’re delighted that Owl Financial is supporting its advisers to develop their skills and knowledge in this important area.”