The Equity Release Council has upgraded its directory to make it easier for borrowers to search for different types of specialist advice, find support in different languages and see firms based their local area.

The ERC says the improved search function allows its members to highlight the full range of services they offer, from advice on equity release to wills and trusts, pensions and wealth management.

Borrowers can select whether they prefer to deal with firms face-to-face, by telephone or online.

Advisers who can provide support in additional languages such as Urdu, Spanish and Arabic are also identified.

Chief executive Jim Boyd says: “The later life lending market is growing and innovating to help the increasing numbers of customers who are looking for support with borrowing in older age.

“We are therefore delighted to launch our revamped members directory which allows our members to better showcase their offering to potential customers.

“Finding the right adviser, at the right time, who can discuss a range of borrowing options and the implications these might have on later life finances is a vital step for customers wishing to access their housing equity.”