Who our headline sponsors L&C are and why they're involved

Who are L&C Mortgages?

L&C Mortgages is the UK’s largest fee free mortgage broker, offering customers mortgage and protection advice from across the market. With over 25 years in the industry, L&C has continuously evolved to meet the needs of their customers while remaining fee-free throughout.

With offices in Bath and Newcastle Upon Tyne, and more than 2 million customers served their commitment to excellence has earned them over 160 awards, including the coveted title of the UK’s best mortgage broker.

But their success is about more than numbers. L&C’s journey on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) underpins their journey to create a workplace and an industry, where every employee can thrive and make a difference and where everyone feels they belong.

Why DEI matters to L&C

L&C’s commitment to DEI stems from their belief that inclusion isn’t just a value, it’s a necessity. Diversity brings fresh perspectives, fosters innovation, and creates a stronger, more adaptable organisation.

Financial services has historically been an industry that suffered from underrepresentation and inequality, particularly for women and other marginalised groups. L&C understands that changing this narrative is essential to ensuring the industry’s future success and relevance.

L&C’s journey is one of continuous improvement. They are committed to listening, engaging, and adjusting their practices to ensure that their workplace and the broader industry reflects the values they champion.

Their focus is guided by the We Belong group, sponsored by their CEO Mark Harrington

Mark Harrington, CEO of L&C shared: “By fostering a culture of openness on our DEI journey, we strive to build a workplace where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to bring their whole selves to work. We embrace DEI and belonging, not only to build a stronger organisation but also create a brighter future for everyone.”

"To ensure L&C is making meaningful progress it conducts an annual DEI survey to better understand their people. The insights gathered inform their strategic planning for the year ahead, helping them address challenges, share stories, celebrate successes and implement change that drive greater equity and belonging. The feedback driven approach ensures plans reflect the real needs of their people."

"For L&C achieving true progress is not something that can be done in isolation and they believe collaboration is critical for meaningful change. There is already exceptional work happening within our industry and L&C is committed to sharing best practices, learning from others and celebrating collective success."

Rachel Eason-Whale, L&C Head of Impact and Inclusion shared: “By working together and learning from each other, we create a stronger more inclusive sector. Collaboration enables us to tackle challenges more effectively and amplify the positive impact. L&C recently become a founding member of the Pride in Finance Alliance, and we are looking forward to building this collaborative relationship in 2025 to drive positive change for the LGBTQ+ community.”

(If you'd like to take part in the Pride in Finance Alliance's industry review survey, click here!)

Sponsoring the Women’s Recognition Awards

L&C is proud to sponsor the Women’s Recognition Awards for a second year and celebrating the achievements of women who are driving change in the financial services sector and making it more equitable for all.

These awards highlight leaders, innovators, and advocates who are breaking barriers, challenging norms, and paving the way for a more inclusive industry. By sponsoring this event, L&C is not only honouring these changemakers but also reinforcing their commitment to building a more equitable financial services landscape.

Mark Harrington, L&C CEO concluded: “We are proud to be sponsoring the WRA for a second consecutive year. L&C’s sponsorship reflects our belief in the power of recognition to inspire and drive change. The awards create a sense of community and solidarity, showcasing that diversity and inclusion are not just aspirations but achievable realities.”