"Encouraging conversation and educating advisers so they know where to turn for support is crucial. This partnership helps deliver."
- Matt Martin, Chair of MIMHC’s Signatory Steering Group & Head of National Accounts at Virgin Money
The Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC) aims to improve mental health support within the mortgage industry whilst the Income Protection Taskforce (IPTF) is dedicated to promoting the importance of Income Protection (IP) policies, advocating for better security and awareness.
This collaboration means the IPTF will become a signatory of the MIMHC, enhancing its commitment to mental health advocacy. In turn, the MIMHC will join the IPTF as an Affiliate, aligning its efforts to advance the importance of IP and mental health-related support.
“We’re thrilled to join forces with MIMHC. This partnership underscores our shared dedication to the wellbeing of advisers, ensuring they have the necessary mental health support,” explained Vicky Churcher, Co-Chair of the IPTF.
Jason Berry, Co-Founder of the MIMHC & Group Sales Director at Crystal Specialist Finance, added: “Collaborating with the IPTF allows us to extend our reach and impact, encouraging a healthier, more resilient industry.”
This collaboration follows recent news that RedArc’s team of professional nurses gave mental health-related care & support to 23% more users in 2023 compared to the previous year. The nurse-led health & wellbeing specialist believes a lack of access to primary care and ever-stretched NHS mental health services has driven this demand.
READ MORE: RedArc reveals 23% rise in mental health cases in 2023
“Understandably, when an individual is feeling low, depressed, or has anxiety, it’s not unusual for them to seize whatever support is offered to them, or whatever is currently popular, regardless of whether that support is suitable,” explained Christine Husbands, Commercial Director at RedArc.
“It’s vital to recognise the vulnerability of those with mental health conditions and offer a full assessment in order to direct them to the most appropriate support. Starting the wrong course of treatment can delay the progress of the individual in making a good recovery,” she added.