The mortgage industry must re-energise its approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, according to Will Hayward-Lloyd, as the latest industry-wide survey launches.
The ED&I Viewpoint 2026 survey launches under the Working in Mortgages initiative, a collaboration between the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (AMI) and the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA).
The research will build on the landmark 2021 study and benchmark progress made over the past five years. It will highlight where meaningful change has taken place and where further improvement is still needed.
Hayward-Lloyd, chief operating officer at Brightstar and a member of Working in Mortgages, said the industry is at a key moment.
“It’s five years since the last survey and now is the time to take stock and reset,” he said. “There is a real need to keep the focus on diversity and inclusion invigorated across the industry.”
The original 2021 research helped shift attitudes and open up conversations that had previously been avoided. One of the most significant changes has been around mental health, which is no longer seen as a taboo topic, alongside a broader focus on inclusion and representation across the industry.
“When I joined the industry, it was difficult for people from the LGBT community to identify allies, let alone role models,” Will Hayward-Lloyd said. “That has improved, and the tone of the conversation has changed significantly, but there is still more to do.”
He added that being visible in his own career had been important in helping others feel more comfortable.
“My workplace gave me the confidence to be open about who I am and to put my head above the parapet. If this survey helps drive more inclusive workplace cultures, that would be a positive step forward for the industry.”
He urged advisers and all industry colleagues across the market to take part in the new survey, even if they do not see ED&I as directly relevant to them.
“It might not feel relevant to you personally right now, but it could be hugely important for your colleagues or future workforce,” he said. “Taking a few minutes to share your experience can help build a clearer picture and drive meaningful progress across the industry.”
Take part in the 2026 ED&I Viewpoint survey here: https://data.bayesprice.com/s3/25215-Working-In-Mortgages.
