Skipton Building Society has partnered with LifeSearch, a leading protection specialist, in a strategic move from a single-tie arrangement to a broker model, broadening members’ access to life, critical illness, and income protection products.
Under the partnership, Skipton members will receive specialist, unbiased advice through LifeSearch’s team of more than 280 advisers.
Products will include offerings from both household-name insurers and specialist providers, enabling tailored recommendations to meet individual circumstances.
The move reflects growing consumer demand for choice and value. LifeSearch research¹ shows that 62% of consumers consider it important to access products from multiple insurers rather than a single provider, while 69% value fair pricing supported by comprehensive market comparisons.
With a network of over 82 branches, Skipton’s broker model will allow members to access competitive protection products while maintaining the Society’s established standards of service and advice.
Debbie Kennedy, Chief Executive at LifeSearch, said, “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering greater value and better outcomes for customers. By supporting Skipton Building Society in its move to a broker model, we’re empowering members with specialist protection advice and wider market access so they can make confident decisions about the cover that’s right for them. Together, we continue to raise the bar across the industry, championing guidance and support that works for everyone.”
Alex Sitaras, Head of Savings and Partnerships at Skipton Building Society, commented:
“Partnering with LifeSearch is an important step in giving our members more choice, better value and the confidence that they’re getting the right protection for their circumstances. Moving to a broker model means our members can access expert, unbiased advice and a wider range of products from across the market – all while receiving the same trusted service they expect from Skipton.”
The partnership aligns with LifeSearch’s broader ambition to champion broker models, believing that moving away from single-tie arrangements ensures consumers receive unbiased advice and access to the best products. LifeSearch already works with partners including Which?, Lloyds Banking Group, Yorkshire Building Society, Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket, and PensionBee.
Debbie Kennedy added, “Our research reinforces what we’re seeing across the industry – consumers want genuine choice and access to the wider market. Moving to a broker model isn’t just good practice; it’s what customers are clearly telling us they value. This partnership shows how forward-thinking companies like Skipton are listening and responding to those needs.”
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