In partnership with ifs, Just Retirement is offering advisers the
opportunity to complete the ifs Certificate in Lifetime Mortgages (CeLM) as part of its drive to encourage more financial advisers to take professional qualifications in equity release.
Under the package, advisers can take their CeLM exam for £75 (the exam usually costs £120). In addition, they receive study materials, half day exam preparation and lunch at one of five venues across the country. The exams all take place on Thursday 20 July 2006.
The decision to offer a route to qualification for advisers has come about as the FSA prepares to publish its findings on the quality of advice being given in the sector. Lifetime mortgage products and the advice provided have attracted criticism since the introduction of statutory regulation and the industry is anticipating that further scrutiny of advice standards is
likely.
"It is great to see Just Retirement taking responsibility for raising
professional standards in this potentially sensitive area of financial services," commented Mark Roberts, head of faculty Financial Regulation at the ifs. "The Certificate in Lifetime Mortgages provides essential knowledge for those advising on equity release products."
Mike Fuller, chief executive at Just Retirement said: "We are committed to raising awareness of the issues of equity release among financial advisers and supporting advisers in offering a high quality service to their clients. We are delighted to be able to offer this package in association with the ifs."
The Certificate in Lifetime Mortgages was launched in 2005 and has had over 2,500 registrations since launch.
