Bradford & Bingley selects Just Retirement Solutions

Bradford & Bingley has announced it has appointed Just Retirement Solutions to offer its customers advice on equity release products.

Following a rigorous selection process, Bradford & Bingley has chosen Just Retirement Solutions because of its experience and performance as a specialist equity release provider. Specially trained and qualified Just Retirement Solutions advisers will be advising Bradford & Bingley customers on a range of lifetime mortgage and home reversion schemes.

The new service will be available from Wednesday 7 May 2008 and customers can choose to have a consultation either in the comfort of their own home or over the phone, whichever they prefer.

Kirsty Jackson, head of lifetime mortgages at Bradford & Bingley, said: "Given the changing landscape over recent years and particularly the shortfall in many people's pension provision, we wanted to be able to offer solutions to homeowners over the age of 55 who want to unlock some of the money tied up in their properties to enhance their lifestyle in retirement.

"Because of the complexity of the area we wanted to ensure our customers were provided with the highest quality advice. We feel that Just Retirement Solutions will be able to offer our customers an excellent combination of products and service. The specialist advisers will be able to discuss customers' circumstances and needs and go through all the relevant details to ensure they are fully aware of all the implications before making a decision."

David Cooper, Just Retirement's Marketing Director, adds: "Equity release is now an important part of customers financial planning. As such it is vital that they have access to the right advice to help them make an informed decision. With 197 high street branches, and a respected name as a financial services provider, Bradford and Bingley is an ideal fit for Just Retirement Solutions' specialist equity release service which brings with it a reputation for quality of service.

"We look forward to working with Bradford and Bingley to help expand awareness of the benefits of equity release and help customers make the most of their retirement."

There are a range of lifetime mortgages available to Bradford & Bingley customers, including Bradford & Bingley, Stonehaven, New Life and Just Retirement.

The panel based solution service offered by Just Retirement Solutions will ensure that Bradford & Bingley customers will only be advised on products from carefully screened and selected product providers. Customers will also receive quality, holistic advice about their suitability for equity release. If equity release is not appropriate, customers will be advised of this and alternative options discussed.