The self-regulating Equity Release Council trade body was formed on May 28, 2012. It was formerly known as SHIP abbreviated for Safe Home Income Plans. The body includes all the participants who are the stakeholders in some or the other form associated with equity release plans. It is an important step towards forming a self-regulatory body including qualified financial advisors, intermediaries, plan providers, lawyers and surveyors to safeguard the interests of the consumers at large.

Equity release plans have always strived to be open and fair for the consumer’s right from the beginning. These plans have always offered the best options for people older than 55 years of age so that they could live their post retirement left as they desire. It helps them to release the equity held in their homes that could be otherwise lying idle. Safeguarding the interest of the consumers has always been a priority and with the formation of Equity Release Council, it has been declared loud and clear that customers' interests are the top priority.

The aim of the Equity Release Council trade body is to spread awareness amongst the people who are looking for an alternative in borrowing money without going through the liabilities in the last stage of their life. It is advisable to take advice only from the approved members of Equity Release Council as they have signed a high standard Code of Conduct that helps in safeguarding the interest of the consumers. Read More...