Brokers have been encouraged to integrate with their local communities by hosting mortgage clinics to provide the full suite of support available, by the national brokerage, Just Mortgages.

The company’s national operations director, John Phillips, said he plans to “pound the pavement” and “make it happen”, rather than “waiting for it to happen” in the current climate.

With wider confusion in the market and a lack of confidence, Phillips believes that there is a greater need for education and support.

Phillips said: “While the market is certainly difficult at the moment, there’s no question there’s opportunities still out there for proactive brokers. It comes down to making it happen, rather than waiting for it to. We’re encouraging our brokers to get out into their communities to help people understand the market and what it means for them and their individual circumstances.

“After all, this is a period of real confusion for borrowers, whether it’s committing to house moves or those remortgaging in a higher interest rate environment. Headlines in the newspapers only add to the confusion, which impacts on confidence and pushes many to plant their heads in the sand. In reality, brokers are best placed to answer any queries and provide a solution.

“With the ongoing trend of wider financial services leaving the high street and the local community, mortgage clinics provide a fantastic way to connect with local people and provide the necessary information in a place that is convenient to them. Our talented marketing team is ready with a range of assets and support to assist brokers with their plans.”

The comments come as several of Just Mortgages’ employed and self-employed brokers have reported success with mortgage clinics. Some have been hosting personalised events in local churches, village halls, hospitals and army bases, with others offering late-night clinics in the likes of snooker clubs to support those that work unsociable hours.

The company’s marketing team has complied a full suite of support to help brokers, which includes literature, artwork and social media templates to help in their outreach, with the team working closely with a number of brokers to help finalise their plans.

Furthermore, Just Mortgages provides its brokers with training and development programmes, as well as ongoing mentoring and compliance support. Across both its employed and self-employed divisions, the company has over 650 advisors nationwide.

Principal mortgage and protection adviser at Black and Gold Mortgages, Richard Spiers, added: “Engaging with the local community should be at the core of your business, at Black and Golds Mortgages much of our success has been driven by the customer base in our local area.

“We positioned ourselves as the local mortgage centre where you can drop in for friendly advice from a local broker who understands the issues people are facing in this difficult climate. Whether it’s getting involved with local schools, events or offering mortgage clinics, reaching out to the community provides an invaluable service and helps grow your business.”

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