Post Office has signalled its intention to join the government’s Help to Buy Scheme with its financial services partner, Bank of Ireland UK.

As well as joining the Help to Buy Scheme, the Post Office says it will increase its number of branch mortgage specialists to 100, to deal with increasing demand.

It intends to become one of the top 10 providers of mortgages in the UK.

John Willcock, head of mortgages at Post Office, said: “Joining the Help to Buy scheme is the latest in a series of steps to affirm Post Office as the go-to mortgage provider for those wanting to get their first foot on the property ladder.

“Coupled with the increased number of Mortgage Specialists to cope with unprecedented demand from movers, first-time buyers and those looking to re-mortgage, Post Office will provide more customers with the chance to speak to experts about the options available, consolidating its position as a leading player in the market.”

Nick Fahy, distribution director at Bank of Ireland UK, added: “Bank of Ireland UK is delighted to be joining the Help to Buy scheme with the Post Office, its long-term financial services partner.

“Making Post Office Mortgages available through the government’s Help to Buy scheme is a natural step in our continued commitment to helping customers across the 11,500-strong branch network to gain access to a broad range of value for money financial products and services.”