The 2026 ED&I Viewpoint, led by the Working in Mortgage (WIM) initiative and supported by industry sponsors, aims to build a clearer picture of people’s real experiences of working in the market today.
The research will update the AMI's 2021 study, which has helped shape much of the work and conversation around inclusion over the past five years.
WIM is urging advisers, lenders and wider industry professionals to take part, stressing that broad participation is critical to ensuring the findings reflect the full diversity of the sector.
AimieJo Shutt, national key account manager at Santander, said: “One of the greatest opportunities we have is to create an industry where people feel safe to truly be themselves. When people can bring their whole selves to their careers, it strengthens the industry as a whole.
“Your thoughts, your feelings and your experience truly matter in helping make this incredible industry one where everyone feels welcome, valued and accepted.”
Lucy Lewis, national account lead at Skipton Building Society, commented: “With stable housing linked to upward mobility, it’s important that we as an industry reflect and truly understand the diverse communities we support.
“Every response to this survey helps identify what’s working, where barriers still exist, and where change is needed.”
Caroline Mirakian, mortgage distribution director at United Trust Bank, added: “When people can see how to belong and how to succeed, our industry becomes stronger, fairer and more relevant. We have a responsibility to make pathways into and through our industry visible and open to all.
“Inclusion is the result of consistent, deliberate actions. Taking part in this survey is a simple but powerful way to have your voice heard and help shape the future of our industry.”
Nicola Goldie, head of strategic partnerships at Aldermore, chair of Working in Mortgages and deputy chair of IMLA, concluded: “When financial services genuinely reflects the diversity of the customers and communities it serves, the benefits are tangible: better challenge, stronger decision making, reduced risk and outcomes that are not only commercial, but responsible and aligned with Consumer Duty.
“This research matters because it creates space for people to share honest experiences and ensures decisions are informed by lived reality, not assumption.”
The survey is now open, and WIM is encouraging as many people as possible across the industry to take part. Take part in the survey here: https://data.bayesprice.com/s3/25215-Working-In-Mortgages.
