Mental wellbeing and a controversial comment by broadcaster Paul Lewis have featured heavily on the industry forum cherry of late.

Cherry attracted more than 35,000 unique visitors in 2023, with several threads recently focused on mental health and wellbeing. One thread, which simply read “How is everyone doing?” generated a huge number of responses and positive engagement.

People were able to share thoughts and opinions on a range of topics, including bereavement, concerns surrounding an impending retirement, as well as a variety of personal business worries.

Another popular topic related to renowned financial broadcaster and journalist Paul Lewis, who sparked heated debate after this comment on national radio.

“The way to get the best possible deal is to go to one of the big, national, independent mortgage brokers – don’t find a mortgage broker over the local cab shop in the high street”.

His words sparked a huge backlash from a furious adviser community and it was quickly pointed out that Mr Lewis is not at all well placed to give professional advice given he does not hold CeMAP accreditations.

Commenting on the cherry forum itself and what it provides advisers director Donna Hopton said: “cherry is a wonderful community for intermediaries and there is always someone on hand to offer advice and support whether the query relates to mortgages, pensions, investments, GI, Tax. – anything at all really”.

She added: “ And, for advisers, being able to share both professional and personal journeys is incredibly powerful and informative.  cherry is very much business focussed but is also like a big family – and just as families sometimes argue and have differences of opinion, cherry ‘family’ members are also keen to offer support when others are struggling”.

“Anyone with concerns or subjects for debate who wishes to contribute constructively and professionally will be welcomed into the fold with open arms,”