Openwork is a financial services partnership with about 3,500 financial advisers operating across the UK. It operates as a directly authorised, multi-panel distribution network.
The partnership launched Route to Wealth in September 2017, which is designed to encourage mortgage advisers to move into the pensions and investment arena, enabling them to provide holistic financial planning.
First intake
In January 2018, the first intake of 13 candidates across London, with an average age of 39, began the programme.
A second intake from Belfast will start the programme in April, with a third, focussing on mortgage advisers from the north east of England, scheduled for the end of 2Q18.
Openwork funds the structured training for the candidates, which it expects will take an individual two years to complete.
Unprecedented demand
John Cupis, mortgage director at Openwork, said the UK is about to enter an unprecedented period of demand for advice for mortgage and pensions, as customers retire with questions about new pensions freedoms and how to manage their housing equity.
He said interest in the course from advisers has been high.
“Many consumers will be introduced to financial advice when they buy their first property with the help of a mortgage adviser.
“If that mortgage adviser is able to advise on pensions and investments too, this will provide a continuity of service for clients as their financial needs evolve in later life and into retirement.
“Route to Wealth will go a long way to ensuring that our advisers are equipped to provide holistic advice suitable for the full range of client circumstances and support their clients throughout their lifetime,” Cupis said.
