Pepper Money is expanding its broker wellbeing programme with its biggest-ever Retreat series to date, launching this month. Designed to tackle broker burnout and boost resilience, the restorative set of wellbeing events for its partners in the broker community will offer expert-led sessions, valuable networking and practical self-care strategies.
As part of Pepper Money’s ‘Be More You’ campaign to foster a healthier work-life balance for UK mortgage brokers, the events will feature practical tips on mindfulness, opportunities to share personal experiences and discussions about the unique challenges faced by brokers today. Building on the success of last year’s Retreat, which gave brokers a rare opportunity to step back and prioritise their own wellbeing, this year’s expanded programme aims to reach even more partners across their network.
Building on the overwhelming success of last year’s Retreat, attendance is on track to more than triple in 2025 as the events expand across London and Manchester. Kicking off during Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, and continuing into the autumn, the purpose of the Retreat events is to place brokers at the heart of the experience, celebrating their individuality and supporting them in their professional journeys. Now in its second year, the initiative reflects Pepper Money’s understanding of the challenges brokers face in today’s uncertain economic environment, with many often working alone and around the clock.
Broker attendees can expect an inspiring agenda focused on practical self-care tips that can be implemented in their daily lives. This includes a 30-minute bold and unapologetic keynote entitled #SlowtheF***Down, from Emma Harris, CEO of Glow London. Emma challenges high-performers to step off the hamster wheel and reconnect with themselves. Known for delivering powerful mindset resets for corporate teams, her session will guide brokers through immersive techniques to combat burnout and rediscover balance — with zero fluff and maximum impact.
Additionally, a Q&A between Paul Adams, Sales Director at Pepper Money, and William Lloyd-Hayward, co-founder of the Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MMHC), will discuss how to navigate mental health challenges in the mortgage industry.
Meanwhile, Jessie Laute, a leading breathwork coach, will run guided breathwork sessions at this year’s opening event, Retreat North, on May 14th in Manchester. The workshop will equip brokers with accessible, evidence-based techniques to reduce stress and improve focus.
Paul Adams, Sales Director at Pepper Money, said: “Prioritising the wellbeing of our business partners is more than just talk – it requires real action. That’s why last year, we took the step of hosting our first broker Retreat, turning our commitment to wellbeing into a proactive, hands-on initiative that provided valuable support and placed our brokers at the heart of our plans. We’re proud to continuethis initiative and expand it even further this year.
“We know that many brokers operate as small businesses and must often go above and beyond, working outside of traditional hours to meet the needs of their clients. Recognising the daily challenges brokers face in supporting customers, and the sacrifices they often make to do so, we understand the significant impact this can have on their wellbeing.
“This year, we are committed to hosting at least two more events as part of our Retreat series, continuing our mission to support brokers’ resilience in a fast-paced and thriving mortgage market to feel empowered for whatever comes their way.
“With a lineup of expert speakers and practical exercises from a breathwork coach, these events are designed to provide invaluable tips and support for maintaining good health and excellence."
Liam Atkins, Chief Compliance Officer at Simply, said: “Pepper Money’s 2024 Retreat provided a welcoming and relaxed environment to connect with peers, step away from the pressures of daily life as a broker, and learn from experts about how to look after our wellbeing.
“It’s refreshing to have a lender demonstrate that they understand and value us, not only professionally, but also personally. Hopefully this event acts as a trigger for people like me to make positive personal and corporate changes to help brokers have a better work-life balance.”
