WHN Solicitors joins UK professional body for equity release

North West law firm Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall (WHN) Solicitors has become one of only a handful of companies in the region to gain membership of the UK’s professional body for equity release.

The Equity Release Council is responsible for promoting high standards in the provision of and advice on equity release. Its members include providers, qualified financial advisers, solicitors and intermediaries.

Equity release is the release of funds by homeowners using equity in their property and is often repaid when borrowers pass away or move into permanent care. It is generally used by older homeowners to unlock retirement funds.

Advising on equity release is a highly specialised area of law, requiring strong conveyancing expertise and an in-depth understanding of financial products. Solicitors are legally required to undertake a vulnerability assessment, including a face-to-face meeting, to ensure those considering it understand the risks.

Jennifer Prysiaznyj, director and head of residential conveyancing at WHN Solicitors, said: “With people living longer, equity release is a growing way to supplement pensions and savings with additional funds throughout retirement. Figures show an 11 per cent increase in total lending between 2024 and 2025 to £2.57 billion.

“WHN’s ethos is built on developing deep and long-lasting relationships with our clients so we understand their needs and can provide the very best service possible. Our personal approach makes us the perfect adviser for this specialised area of legal advice as people look to release funds to support their lifestyle as they grow older.

“We have been advising clients in the region for 150 years and have developed a strong reputation for the very best service possible. Our membership of the Equity Release Council is a further independent accreditation of the quality service we provide to our clients every single day.”

The Equity Release Council is designed to protect the interests of homeowners and has several standards which govern how its members act. This includes its Consumer Charter, which outlines how people receive trusted, tailored, thorough and transparent support from its member firms.

Advisers and other firms must undergo a background check as part of their Equity Release Council membership status.

Jennifer will lead WHN’s equity release advisory service. She brings over 20 years’ experience as a qualified solicitor and advises in all areas of residential conveyancing.