Pepper Money will stage two broker wellbeing events this spring, with its Retreat series now formally recognised by the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC).

The specialist lender has confirmed that its Retreat programme will return for a third year, with events taking place in Manchester on 21 April and in London on 3 June.

The initiative forms part of Pepper Money’s ‘Be More You’ wellness programme, which is aimed at supporting the wellbeing of UK mortgage finance professionals and encouraging a healthier work – life balance.

This year’s series has received official recognition from the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter, marking a new phase in the programme’s development. Representatives from the Charter, including Eloise Hall of eSurv and Gemma Bennett of The Mortgage Mum, will attend the events, with co-founder Jason Berry also contributing to the programme.

The endorsement positions Retreat as part of the sector’s wider wellbeing agenda rather than a standalone event series, reflecting growing industry focus on mental health and resilience among brokers.

INDUSTRY DATA HIGHLIGHTS ONGOING PRESSURES

Figures from the 2025 Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter Mental Health & Wellbeing Survey provide context for the initiative’s continued emphasis on burnout prevention and work – life balance.

Nearly 59% of respondents reported working more than 45 hours a week last year, while more than 10% said they regularly exceeded 60 hours. Although this represents a modest improvement on the previous year, the data continues to point to sustained pressure across the intermediary market.

Sleep quality also remains inconsistent. Only a minority of respondents reported achieving five or more nights of sufficient sleep per week, while 43% identified adequate sleep and rest as one of the most important contributors to health and wellbeing.

In addition, 21.9% of respondents rated their mental wellbeing as poor or concerning, broadly in line with the “one in five” finding reported in 2024. While 34.4% said their work – life balance had improved year on year, the economic backdrop was cited as the single biggest stress driver, followed by client demands.

The next edition of the Charter’s survey is due shortly after the Manchester event, providing what organisers describe as a timely opportunity for brokers to assess progress and consider where further improvements may be required.

PRACTICAL FOCUS FOR 2026 PROGRAMME

As in previous years, the 2026 programme will focus on practical strategies that brokers can implement immediately. Sessions will include guided breathwork workshops led by Jessie Laute, alongside techniques aimed at improving sleep, resilience and stress management. Open discussions around workload and professional boundaries are also planned.

Paul Adams, sales director at Pepper Money, said: “Retreat has always been about turning our commitment to broker wellbeing into practical action. The data from the 2025 MIMHC survey shows progress, but it also reminds us that long hours, inconsistent rest, and economic pressures remain a reality for many brokers.

“With 22% of brokers rating their mental wellbeing as poor or concerning, targeted and sustained support for the industry remains essential. We can’t afford to take our eye of the ball – continued focus, awareness and meaningful action around mental health remains critical.

“We believe supporting brokers goes beyond products and service levels. It means recognising the human impact of operating in a fast-paced, highly regulated market.

“The Charter’s recognition of Retreat reflects how the initiative has evolved and matured. It is about creating the right environment for honest conversations and long-term change.”

Jason Berry, co-founder of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter, added: “Pepper Money have been outstanding supporters of mental health and wellbeing in recent times, and their Retreat series is a powerful example of what modern broker engagement should look like.

“By creating space for meaningful conversations around sleep, mindset and personal development, informed by the insights from our 2025 MIMHC survey, they are demonstrating real leadership.

“This isn’t just another industry event; it’s a thoughtful investment in the wellbeing and performance of brokers. I’m incredibly proud to be strengthening our collaboration as we move into 2026 and to see Pepper Money continuing to lead the way with a human, progressive approach to supporting our sector.”