9 July 2007

Retirement Plus launches equity release website

Retirement Plus has today announced the launch of a generic equity release website which is being run in conjunction with the charity Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC).

The website, www.eacer.co.uk (also accessible via the EAC's www.housingcare.org), is part of Retirement Plus strategy to broaden understanding of equity release through the provision of clear, unbiased information.

Each year, EAC has around 8,000 enquiries about equity release, via its website and telephone Advice Line.

Duncan Young, Managing Director of Retirement Plus said: "A lot of these people know little about equity release - so what they need is basic information. To augment their understanding we felt that we could assist by building a generic website.

"By accessing the website the public will be able to find out everything they need to know about equity release including the information on the different products on the market and the best questions to ask brokers; there is a list of known independent financial advisers who specialise in equity release."

The site also supports the work that Retirement Plus is doing with United Cooperatives. Earlier this year, Retirement Plus became the first equity release provider to embark on a joint venture with a major retailer to educate people on equity release and the importance of seeking independent financial advice.

Retirement Plus currently promotes equity release through more than 900 United Cooperatives outlets in the North of England and Midlands, including food stores, pharmacies, travel agencies and car showrooms.


ENDS


All media enquiries:
Retirement Plus
Duncan Young, Managing Director
020 7907 8591 / 07775 783 431


EAC
John Galvin, Chief Executive
020 7820 7867


Mainland PR
Zoe Butt
020 3008 7400


Editor's notes


About Retirement Plus

Retirement Plus launched in 2005 and is backed financially by property investors including FTSE 100 property company British Land, and the UK's leading privately owned property-related asset manager, Delancey. Managing Director is Duncan Young, Head of Sales Fred Paton and Commercial Director Chris Rumsey.

Retirement Plus is a member of SHIP, the body which is dedicated entirely to the protection of planholders and promotion of safe home income and equity release plans.

The Property Plan is the biggest ever development of the home reversion concept. It has Application, KFI and DIP processes similar to those for lifetime mortgages. Retirement Plus does not take direct applications from consumers. The Property Plan is only distributed through intermediaries, because of Retirement Plus' insistence that the product is accessed with advice.

Website: www.retirement-plus.co.uk


About EAC
EAC provides independent information and advice to help older people make informed choices about meeting their housing and care needs. Its Advice Line (020 7820 1343) is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Its website contains detailed information on organising home adaptations and improvements; releasing equity; finding home care services; moving to retirement housing and choosing a care home.

Website: www.housingcare.org