Lenders to contact 1.6 million mortgage borrowers: why speaking to your adviser matters more than ever

With mortgage rates shifting in response to global events, the Chancellor has asked the UK’s biggest lenders to step up support for borrowers. As part of this, lenders will soon be contacting 1.6 million customers whose fixed‑rate deals are ending this year to outline the help available.

While this is welcome news, it’s also important to remember one thing:

Your lender will only tell you about their own products.

Your adviser can tell you about a wide range of your options.

Here’s what you need to know and why speaking to your adviser early could make a significant difference.

What lenders have agreed to do

Following meetings between Chancellor Rachel Reeves and the UK’s six largest banks and building societies, lenders have committed to:

• Proactively reach out to customers whose fixed‑rate deals end this year
• Explain repayment options and signpost support ahead of any payment changes

This is helpful but it’s only part of the picture.

Why your adviser should be your first call

When your lender contacts you, they’ll only present the products they offer themselves. But in today’s fast‑moving market, that could mean missing out on better options elsewhere.

Here’s where your adviser adds real value:

1. We have access to a wide range of options not just one lender

Some lenders are increasing rates, restructuring products or withdrawing deals in response to the conflict in Iran and the resulting market volatility.

Your adviser can compare your lender’s offer with alternative products across the wider market so you can make a fully informed choice.

2. We can help you avoid unnecessary rate shocks

With many borrowers facing higher repayments when their fixed rate ends, planning ahead is crucial. Lenders’ early contact helps but an adviser can ensure you explore all ways to reduce monthly costs or lock in a competitive deal.

3. We offer personalised guidance, not generic options

Lenders are contacting a huge number of people - around 1.6 million - which means the support they offer will be more general.

Your adviser can look closely at your circumstances and help you make decisions tailored to your long‑term financial goals.

4. We stay up to date with fast‑changing market conditions

Rates have been rising quickly as global uncertainty continues, and advisers are monitoring changes daily.

This means you’ll always receive the most current, relevant guidance - not just what your lender happens to be offering that day.

What to do next

If your fixed rate ends this year, or even early next year, the best thing you can do is get in touch with your adviser as soon as possible.

Your adviser can help you:

• Understand your lender’s offer
• Compare it with an extensive panel of lenders
• Decide whether to secure a new rate early
• Prepare for any payment changes with confidence

Even if your lender reaches out first, speak to your adviser before you make any decisions and find the right deal for you.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 30/03/26.

James Weir Financial Services LLP is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

What the dividend tax rate increase means for you

From 6 April 2026, dividend tax rates will increase for basic and higher-rate taxpayers. While the dividend allowance remains at £500 per tax year, the tax charged above this threshold will rise.

What’s changing? 

Current dividend tax rates:

•          Basic rate: 8.75%

•          Higher rate: 33.75%

•          Additional rate: 39.35%

From April 2026:

•          Basic rate increases to 10.75...

Human advice still matters: What protection behaviour in 2025 tells us

In an increasingly digital world, it’s easy to assume that financial decisions are best made online, through comparison tools, calculators and automated journeys. But when it comes to protection, recent research suggests something very different. Despite the growth of technology in financial services, people still value human advice, especially when decisions feel personal, emotional or complex.

The AMI Protection Viewpoint Research highlights that around 70% of consumers believe personal contact is important at every stage of the protection journey. This isn’t limited to older generations either. Younger consumers, often assumed to prefer digital-only experiences, report the same preference. When the topic is protecting income, health or family, reassurance and understanding still matter.

Protection is personal, not just financial

Protection products are unlike most other financial decisions. They involve thinking about illness, injury, loss of income or even death. These are not abstract concepts, and they often come with emotional weight. For many people, that makes it harder to engage, even when they know protection is important.

The research shows that although advisers are having more protection conversations than ever before, only 39% of consumers recall having them. This suggests that while the topic is being raised, it may not always be landing in a way that feels meaningful or memorable. It also points to a wider challenge. When people feel overwhelmed or unsure, they may disengage rather than ask questions.

This is where human advice plays a crucial role. A conversation with a real adviser allows time to explore concerns, explain options clearly and put protection into the context of the everyday. It’s not just about products, but about understanding what matters to you and your family and why.

Why automation alone isn’t enough

Digital tools can be helpful. They can provide quick information and support research. But protection decisions are rarely straightforward. Policies differ in terms of cover, exclusions and suitability, and small details can have a big impact later on.

The AMI findings challenge the idea that younger consumers want fully automated journeys. Instead, they show a consistent desire for human input across all age groups. People want to talk through scenarios, ask questions and feel confident that what they’re putting in place genuinely meets their needs and will do so as their circumstances change

In uncertain economic times, this becomes even more important. When finances feel under pressure, people want reassurance that they are making the right choices, not just the quickest ones.

The value of speaking to a real adviser

A qualified adviser can help cut through confusion and turn uncertainty into clarity. They can explain how different types of protection work, help you decide what level of cover is appropriate and ensure policies fit alongside your wider financial commitments.

Just as importantly, an adviser listens. They understand that protection is not a one-size-fits-all decision and that your circumstances, priorities and concerns are unique. That human connection helps build confidence and trust, making it more likely that protection decisions are made and maintained over time.

Putting people back at the centre of protection

The message from the AMI Protection Viewpoint research is clear. Technology has its place, but human advice remains central to how people engage with protection. Whether you are starting a family, buying a home or simply reviewing your finances, having a conversation with a real person can make all the difference.

If you’re unsure where to begin or want to understand your options better, speaking to a qualified adviser is a valuable first step. Protection is about peace of mind, and that often starts with a conversation.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 09/03/26.

James Weir Financial Services LLP is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Help renters and landlords stay ahead – Timeline for the Renters’ Rights Act

You may have already seen the news, the government has published its implementation roadmap for the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, outlining how the changes will be rolled out over the coming years.

This is set to be one of the most significant overhauls of the private rental sector in a generation, and whether you’re a renter or a landlord, it’s worth paying attention now.

With Phase 1 scheduled to start on 1 May 2026, the clock is ticking for all to prepare.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know, and when.

Phase 1 – 1 May 2026

This is the first wave of reforms, affecting almost every private tenancy in England. Among the headline changes are:

-            The abolition of “no-fault” evictions under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants just by giving notice, they will need a valid reason.

-            Fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) will end. Instead, tenancies will move to open-ended “Assured Periodic Tenancies”. That means tenants will have rolling tenancies, giving more stability and flexibility.

-            Restriction on rent increases, allowing just one rent increase per year under a formal notice (Section 13), with required advance notice.

-            A ban on practices such as rental bidding wars and excessive upfront rent demands. Landlords and agents will no longer legally be able to ask for offers higher than advertised rent of large advance payments.

-            Stronger protection for tenants, including anti-discrimination rules (e.g. families with children), and the right for tenants to request pets.

-            Enhanced enforcement powers for local councils, expanded rent-repayments orders, and tougher penalties for non-compliance.

Because the new tenancy regime replaces fixed-term ASTs, the changes will apply to both new and existing tenancies from day one. This means landlords and agents must be ready, opening and ongoing tenancies will convert automatically.

Phase 2 – Late 2026

The second phase focuses on transparency, accountability and redress. Key measures include:

-            The launch of a mandatory Private Rented Sector Database (PRS Database). All private landlords will need to register themselves and every property they rent.

-            Public access to the database will follow. This aims to help tenants make informed choices, landlords demonstrate compliance, and local councils get target enforcement where needed.

-            The creation of a mandatory PRS Landlord Ombudsman scheme, offering tenants a formal route to raise complaints and seek redress when issues arise, without immediate recourse to court.

These reforms mark a shift towards greater transparency and accountability, benefiting conscientious landlords and tenants alike.

Phase 3 – Date TBC

The third phase will bring in long-term reforms around property condition, safety and quality standards – but the exact timing remains under consultation. Key proposals include:

-            Extending a modernised Decent Homes Standard (DHS) to the private rental sector, meaning all private rental properties will have to meet minimum standards for safety, energy efficiency and habitability.

-            Applying Awaab’s Law to private rental properties, landlords will face legally enforceable deadlines to address serious hazards such as damp, mould or structural issues, ensuring a safer living environment.

Because these reforms require further regulation and consultation, the exact rollout dates remain to be confirmed. However, landlords are already being urged to plan ahead.

What this means for renters and landlords

-            For renters: this legislation delivers far greater security and fairness. No more risk of no-fault eviction; more stable, rolling tenancies; protection from unfair rent practices; and stronger rights when it comes to pets, unfair discrimination and property standards.

-            For landlords: significant changes will be required, tenancy agreements must be updated, new compliance systems implemented, and annual processes changed (for rent reviews, notices, pet requests, etc). The introduction of the PRS Database and Ombudsman will also bring higher transparency and accountability.

In short, if you have any involvement with privately rented property, whether as a landlord or a tenant, the timeline is clear, and the changes are significant.

What to watch next

-            Keep an eye out for the detailed guidance and draft regulations expected to be published ahead of May 2026. These will clarify exact requirements for tenancy agreements and landlord duties under Phase 1.

-            Understand the new council enforcement powers and compliance checks, especially around safety, documentation, rent increases and tenant rights.

-            Landlords should start preparing now. Updating systems, tenancy templates and property checks. Advisers should be ready to guide clients through remortgages or property investments under the new rules.

-            Phase 2 and Phase 3 changes – PRS Database, Ombudsman, Decent Homes Standard, Awaab’s Law – will require planning and resources. For investors, this may mean revisiting long-term property strategies to accommodate higher standards and compliance requirements.

How to plan ahead

There’s no question that the new regulation will have widespread implications, whether that’s on rental standards, tenant security and tenancies more broadly. There’s also the potential impact on rental supply and rent prices as some landlords – particularly ‘accidental’ or amateur landlords - respond to the regulation and weigh up their options.

For landlords in particular, good quality advice is absolutely critical before making any decision. Acting out of uncertainty can be costly. A mortgage adviser can work with you to review your portfolio and current mortgage structure to explore any possible alternatives or better options. Rather than panic response, landlords can make decisions based on numbers, options and strategy built on robust advice.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

MOST Buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 05/03/26.

The Mortgage Store is a trading name of James Weir Financial Services which is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Global events and your investments: What you need to know this week

Recent global events can understandably feel unsettling, especially when headlines are moving quickly and markets react in real time. Below is a clear, factual summary of what has happened, what we are watching next, and why a calm, considered approach remains important.

What’s happened?

Over the weekend, the United States and Israel launched a large scale, coordinated military operation against Iran, targeting senior leadership, ballistic missile sites and key military infrastructure. This escalation followed stalled nuclear talks and several months of rising geopolitical tension.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has confirmed that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed during the initial strikes, along with a number of senior military officials.

Iran has since retaliated with missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and US bases across the Middle East, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Missile strikes also hit Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, two of the busiest airports globally, resulting in casualties and significant travel disruption. Our thoughts are with everyone affected in the region.

Markets have reacted with increased volatility, though declines have so far been relatively measured compared to some historical geographical events.

What to look out for next

One of the most immediate market impacts has been on oil prices, which have risen above US$80 per barrel, a 14-month high. This reflects concerns around potential disruption to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which around 20% of the world’s oil supply passes.

There has also been a rise in wholesale gas process, particularly in Europe. Sustained higher energy costs could impact European growth and complicate longer-term reindustrialisation efforts,

Sustained higher oil prices could add to inflationary pressure, particularly when combined with rising shipping insurance costs. This is something investors are watching closely, as it could affect the outlook for future interest rate cuts, a key driver behind recent market gains.

Why it’s important not to react

Markets have fallen following the news, but not as sharply as some might have expected. While short term volatility is uncomfortable, history consistently shows that markets tend to recover after major geopolitical events.

Periods like this can test investor confidence, but reacting emotionally, for example by making sudden changes based on headlines, can often do more harm than good. A long- term, well-structured investment strategy is designed to weather exactly these kinds of events.

What does this mean for your investments?

The first step is always ensuring that your investments remain aligned with your risk profile. This helps make sure that any market ups and downs stay within a level you would reasonably expect and feel comfortable with.

More broadly, diversification plays a crucial role. We have long been mindful of elevated valuations in parts of the US stock market and have maintained a cautious approach. We are also seeing signs of a diversification trade emerging, with Europeans and Asian equities benefiting relative to the US.  

Every individual situation is different, and it is important that your portfolio reflects your personal goals, time horizon and attitude to risk, not the latest news cycle.

Speak with us

If you have questions or would like to review how your investments are positioned in light of recent events, speak with us.

A conversation with your financial adviser can provide clarity, reassurance and confidence during uncertain times.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 02/03/2026

The value of your investment and any income from it can go down as well as up and you may get back less than you invested.

The Mortgage Store is a trading style of James Weir Financial Services which is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

 Understanding UK tax thresholds when you’re building and growing your wealth.

The 40% tax band: What happens when your income grows 

As your career develops, it’s common to move from the basic-rate tax band into the higher-rate band, where income between £50,271 and £125,140 is taxed at 40%. This doesn’t mean all your income is taxed at 40%, only the portion above the threshold, but it does mean that pay rises can feel smaller than expected.  

For midcareer earners and families, this shift can have a noticeable impact. More of your...

What does an interest rate cut mean for mortgages?

Every six weeks or so, all eyes are on the Bank of England and its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) – the group that decides whether interest rates will be increased, held or cut. How they choose to act has an impact on how much it costs banks to borrow money and what rates they can offer to savers and borrowers.

With all this in mind, what does an interest rate cut mean for mortgage holders and for those weighing up their options as they come to buy or move?

Will my mortgage now be cheaper?

For those borrowers that currently have a tracker mortgage – one where the rate closely follows the bank base rate (BBR) – they will see their monthly borrowing costs reduce almost immediately. This is because you will be paying less interest on your mortgage.

It is a similar scenario for those that are currently on a lender’s standard variable rate (SVR), which is a changeable rate set by the lender that typically comes into effect after a fixed rate period ends. These too are likely to be reduced following a cut, although it is important to note that lenders are not obliged to do so.

These types of mortgages only account for less than 1.5 million of the total outstanding mortgages (or 17%)[1], meaning that for the majority of mortgage holders, they won’t feel the benefit just yet.

What about my fixed rate mortgage?

The main reason is that the majority of mortgages in the UK are taken on a fixed-rate basis. This means that your monthly payments are fixed for set a period – typically, two, five or ten years. Whether interest rates rise or fall, the amount you will pay stays the same.

The only time this will change is when you come to change to a new deal, or do you nothing when your fixed rate ends and you to move to your lender’s SVR.

What does it mean for new mortgages?

While a change to the bank base rate doesn’t directly impact mortgage pricing, the overall outlook for interest rates does influence the mortgage rates offered by lenders.

Without getting too technical, this is because many lenders will purchase tranches of money to lend to customers, in addition to lending their own if they have the facility. The amount they pay is set using something called swap rates, which are ever-changing and heavily influenced by economic conditions, market expectations and general sentiment.

If swap rates decrease, then so does the cost for lenders to borrow money, allowing them to pass on savings to their customers and stay competitive. Often, but not always, the indication that interest rates are set to be cut – along with greater certainty around the future path of interest rates – can encourage swap rates to fall and reduce the borrowing costs for lenders and new mortgage holders.

Which option is right for me?

There’s no question that the decision made by the MPC plays a role in the mortgage process, whether it’s changing the amount you pay on a tracker or SVR, or what rate a lender may be able to offer you on a new mortgage.

Whether you’re looking to buy, move or remortgage, it can be useful to know what influences and mortgage pricing to make an informed choice. It’s also valuable to know what different options are available to you and how a change in interest rates – either positively or negatively – can change your monthly outgoings.

Working together with you, we will assess all your options and help you make the right choice for you and your individual circumstances. Please call us on 02087738885 or email enquiries@james-weir.com

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 03/02/2026.

Trade name:

The Mortgage Store is a trade name of James Weir Financial Services, which is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Income Tax explained

UK tax year: 6 April 2025 – 5 April 2026 

Income Tax is the tax you pay on what you earn. How much you pay depends on how much income you have and which tax bands it falls into. 

Your tax-free allowance 

Most people can earn £12,570 a year tax-free. 
This is called your Personal Allowance. 

• You pay no Income Tax on income below this amount. 
• If you earn more than £100,000, your allowance is gradually reduced. 
• Your Personal Allowance is £0 if you earn £125,140 or more. 
• If you’re eligible for Blind P...