Mortgage and insurance network, Stonebridge, has renewed its partnership later life adviser, Viva Retirement Solutions.

The pair’s new long-term agreement will see Viva remain part of the Stonebridge network as an appointed representative (AR) firm, extending a partnership that began over 10 years ago.

Viva specialises in the later life lending market and offers advice to over-55s covering product options that include equity release, lifetime mortgages, and RIO mortgages. It is a member of the Equity Release Council and is also the later life referral partner for Stonebridge AR member firms who don’t hold equity release advice permissions.

Stonebridge has continued to steadily grow the number of AR firms within its network. The Network Consulting league table revealed that Stonebridge achieved the largest net growth of AR firms in real terms during 2023, with the number of advisers in the network standing at over 1,100.

Director at Viva, Paul Saroya, said: “Our decision to extend our long-term partnership with Stonebridge was an easy one to make. The Stonebridge team are always willing to listen to feedback and ideas and are proactive with advice and support.

“The aim is to continue growing our business with Stonebridge, and we truly believe we are with the best network partner to do this, taking on the right people at the right time, and ensuring we grow in a sustainable manner.”

Stonebridge chief executive, Rob Clifford, added: “The expertise, experience, and the service provided by Viva and its advisers in the later life lending space is clear for all to see. The fact they are our preferred provider for the network is a testament to their capabilities.

“We’re very much looking forward to continuing this relationship with Paul, Mark, and their team, and we’ll continue to work closely with them to ensure they have everything they need to continue their fantastic growth.”

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