The specialist finance and bridging sector has been urged to reassess its progress on diversity, equity and inclusion (ED&I) as a new industry-wide survey launches.
William Lloyd-Hayward (main picture, inset), chief operating officer at Brightstar Group, says the market is at a “reset moment”, five years on from the last major piece of research into workplace culture across mortgages and specialist lending.
The latest Working in Mortgages ED&I Viewpoint survey aims to capture how attitudes have shifted across lenders, brokers and packagers, and identify where further progress is needed.
The call comes as the bridging and specialist finance market continues to expand, with firms under increasing pressure to attract and retain talent in a competitive, fast-paced environment.
MAINTAIN MOMENTUM
Lloyd-Hayward says the original 2021 study helped move conversations forward, particularly around mental health and inclusion, but warned momentum must be maintained.
He adds: “It’s five years since the last survey and now is the time to take stock and reset. There is a real need to keep the focus on diversity and inclusion invigorated across the industry.
“When I joined the industry, it was difficult for people from the LGBT community to identify allies, let alone role models. That has improved, and the tone of the conversation has changed significantly, but there is still more to do.”
MEANINGFUL CHANGE
Lloyd-Hayward says greater visibility across the sector has helped create more open environments but stresses that continued engagement is essential to drive meaningful change.
He says: “My workplace gave me the confidence to be open about who I am and to put my head above the parapet. If this survey helps drive more inclusive workplace cultures, that would be a positive step forward for the industry.”
He also urged brokers, lenders and intermediaries operating in bridging and specialist finance to take part in the survey.
“It might not feel relevant to you personally right now, but it could be hugely important for your colleagues or future workforce,” he says.
“Taking a few minutes to share your experience can help build a clearer picture and drive meaningful progress across the industry.”
