The Certified Mortgage Adviser (CMA) programme will help advisers stand out as accomplished professionals in the mortgage and equity release sectors.

John Somerville, head of financial services, professional education at LIBF said: “In an increasingly complex world, it’s important for advisers to be able to demonstrate their credibility.

“Independent endorsement helps give consumers confidence that they’re getting great advice from an accomplished professional.

“As the awarding body for CeMAP – the benchmark qualification in the mortgage advice sector – Certified Mortgage Adviser status will really help advisers stand out.”

Certified Mortgage Adviser will be awarded to qualified advisers from this month (June 2021).

Advisers are eligible for CMA status if they hold an appropriate LIBF qualification to advise on mortgages or equity release – such as CeMAP or CeRER – and are actively advising clients, with appropriate permission showing on the FCA Register.

They must also be a member of LIBF and the organisation said it would recheck advisers’ professional status annually at renewal.

However, advisers who are not members of LIBF can join for £82 a year.

Advisers will receive a secure digital badge showing their CMA status. They can use this for their client communications and promotional materials.

They also benefit from membership of LIBF, which includes access to regular CPD materials. Membership of LIBF will be included on their FCA Register listing.