Stonebridge has become the first mainstream mortgage network to be recognised as an associate firm of the Society of Mortgage Professionals (SMP).

Part of the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), the SMP is aiming to raise the levels of professional knowledge and technical competence within the advisory space.

With over 1,000 advisers, Stonebridge is one of the fastest growing mortgage networks in the UK. The firm recently announced that its total lending for 2022 reached £12.6bn.

Becoming an associate firm of the SMP means Stonebridge is aligned with the group’s principles, as it looks to “build public trust in financial services” as well as “elevate the importance of financial wellbeing” through mortgage and protection advice.

“Stonebridge has always been committed to the raising of professional standards within our business, our individual firms, but also in terms of the entire mortgage sector,” said Stonebridge chief executive, Rob Clifford.

“This is why we’re very pleased to be announcing our membership of the SMP as an associate firm which will allow us to leverage the collective knowledge, expertise, support, and resources that come with it, and for us to share that with our member firms. We’re looking forward to playing a contributory part in everything the SMP has to offer in the months and years ahead.”

Chief executive of the CII, Alan Vallance, added: “I am delighted Stonebridge is now able to further evidence its existing and clear commitment to clients through our associate firm mark. It is important members of the public are able to easily identify providers that demonstrate integrity, probity, and fairness aligned with our code of professional ethics and conduct.

“We are looking forward to working with such a significant mortgage and protection network to further advance public trust in holistic mortgage advice and supporting their members’ professional development.”

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