SimplyBiz Mortgages has announced the addition of Bluestone Mortgages to its panel as the lender extends its pilot scheme in the intermediary market.

SimplyBiz Mortgages’ membership of more than 3,200 brokers will now have access to products that are designed to help underserved areas of the market. Bluestone offers solutions for the self-employed, contractors, employed applicants with multiple incomes and customers who have had a “blip” in their credit history.

Martin Reynolds (pictured), CEO at SimplyBiz Mortgages, said: “Bluestone Mortgages is aiming to initiate a different perspective to lending in the underserved markets with interesting criteria and a fresh approach to how it underwrites.

“We are pleased that Bluestone is working with our members during this important pilot phase to offer solutions to many complex situations, helping our brokers assist a wider range of clients.”

Matt Andrews, managing director of Bluestone Mortgages, said: “There is currently a significant portion of the UK population unable to secure a mortgage, held back due to their employment status or because they suffered a bump in the road that has impacted their credit profile.

“We are delighted to be partnering with SimplyBiz Mortgages. We both want  and look forward to working together to help close this gap in the market by providing affordable mortgage solutions that take into account an applicant’s full history and personal circumstances, looking at the person not the credit score points assessed by typical lenders.”