UKAR ARena Issue 6: Autumn 2013 | Page 10

10 EQUITY RELEASE – A NEW APPROACH. With StepChange Debt Charity. They’ve not always enjoyed the best reputation, but managed correctly, modern equity release schemes are playing an increasingly positive part in debt management. This is especially the case for older clients or those coming to the end of interest only mortgages. So much so that StepChange Debt Charity has now created its own mortgage team; encouraging people to consider schemes and offering impartial, free advice. The only UK charity providing this service – it’s part of their wider commitment to provide tailored, long-term financial solutions. They launched StepChange Financial Solutions six months ago, working with high street lenders to develop new retirement products. Here Financial Advice Manager, Tom Moloney, outlines their a [\