Buying a Home
Remortgaging
Landlord
Specialist
Secured Loans
Debt Consolidation
Conveyancing
Finding a Solicitor
Mortgage lender reviews
The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries (formerly Platform) is the only UK high street bank with a customer-led ethical policy built into its constitution, offering residential and buy-to-let mortgages with flexible income assessment. Here's our independent review of where it excels and where it may not be the best fit.
Platform, now known as The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries, is a solid choice for residential and buy-to-let borrowers who want an ethical lender with flexible income assessment. It's the only UK high street bank with a customer-led ethical policy written into its constitution, and it's now backed by mutual ownership following Coventry Building Society's acquisition of The Co-operative Bank in January 2025.
Platform mortgages are intermediary-only, so you'll need to go through a mortgage broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Processing can take longer than some specialist lenders, but the combination of ethical credentials, flexible criteria, and high street backing makes it worth comparing against other options.
Platform mortgages come from The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries, the broker-only mortgage arm of The Co-operative Bank. Platform rebranded to The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries in September 2023, but many brokers and borrowers still know it by its original name. It's the UK's only high street bank with a customer-led ethical policy built into its constitution.
Overall rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or any other debt secured on it.
Best for: ethically-minded borrowers seeking a residential mortgage or remortgage, and professionals wanting access to enhanced income multipliers.
Not ideal for: those needing second charge mortgages or secured loans, portfolio landlords, or borrowers who want to apply directly without a broker.
The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries is a solid choice if you want an ethical lender with flexible income assessment and access products for minor credit issues. You won't find second charge loans or secured lending here, but the residential mortgage range makes it worth considering for purchases and remortgages.
The Co-operative Bank was founded in 1872 as the Loan and Deposit Department of the Co-operative Wholesale Society in Rochdale, the birthplace of the modern co-operative movement. The bank became a separate registered company in 1971 and has operated independently ever since.
The intermediary mortgage division has its roots in Platform Home Loans, which launched in 1989 as Bear Stearns Home Loans. After several ownership changes, including Lehman Brothers and The Money Store, it was acquired by Britannia Building Society in 2001. When Britannia merged with The Co-operative Bank in 2009, Platform became part of the wider group. In September 2023, Platform rebranded to The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries, aligning more closely with the bank's ethical identity and values.
In January 2025, Coventry Building Society completed its £780 million acquisition of The Co-operative Bank, bringing the 152-year-old institution back into mutual ownership. Both organisations continue operating separately for now, with integration expected to happen gradually over several years.
The combined group has:
The Co-operative Bank is the only UK high street bank with a customer-led ethical policy written into its constitution. Introduced in 1992 and updated six times since, the policy shapes how the bank uses customer money, including refusing to finance fossil fuel extraction or production, a stance it's held for over 20 years.
For mortgage borrowers, this means your mortgage payments won't be funding activities that conflict with the bank's ethical commitments on climate change, human rights, or animal welfare. The bank has been rated the UK's best high street bank for Environmental, Social and Governance performance by Sustainalytics for five consecutive years.
The Co-operative Bank is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by both the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. It's subscribed to the Lending Standards Board's Standards of Lending Practice, and deposits are protected under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme up to £85,000 per person.
Why Platform mortgages
Only high street bank with an ethical policy
The Co-operative Bank's customer-led ethical policy is written into its constitution, meaning your mortgage payments won't fund fossil fuel extraction, arms manufacturing, or other activities that conflict with its values.
Flexible income assessment
No minimum employment period for employees, contractors with 6 months or more remaining on their contract may qualify, and various income types are considered on an individual basis.
Access products for minor credit issues
The Access range accepts older or lower-value CCJs and defaults, and discharged IVAs, giving options to borrowers who'd be declined by many mainstream lenders.
Enhanced multipliers for professionals
Qualifying professionals such as solicitors, accountants, doctors, and dentists can access up to 6x income, compared with the standard multiplier available to other applicants.
Backed by mutual ownership
Following Coventry Building Society's acquisition of The Co-operative Bank, the lender is now mutually owned, meaning decisions should prioritise members and customers rather than shareholders.
The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries offers first charge mortgages only. It doesn't provide second charge mortgages, secured loans, or homeowner loans.
The core residential range includes fixed-rate mortgages from 2 to 5 years. Rates and fees change frequently, so speak to an advisor for current figures based on your circumstances.
Purchase mortgages:
Remortgages:
The Access range is designed for borrowers with minor credit issues who don't qualify for standard products.
Credit history accepted under Access includes CCJs over 36 months old of any value, CCJs of 36 months or less with a total value of £300 or under, defaults over 36 months old of any value, defaults of 36 months or less with a total value of £1,000 or under (maximum 5 defaults), and a discharged IVA or Trust Deed that ended more than 3 years ago.
If you're worried about problem debt or how credit issues might affect a mortgage application, free and independent guidance is available from MoneyHelper on 0800 138 7777.
The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries offers buy-to-let products with a maximum loan of £750,000 and maximum LTV of 75%. Minimum income is £25,000, with fixed-rate options from 2 to 5 years. These products aren't available to first-time buyers or for consumer buy-to-let.
Enhanced income multipliers are available for qualifying professionals, including solicitors, accountants, doctors, dentists, and other qualified professions. Applicants must meet standard affordability criteria, and these products are available at LTVs up to 85%.
Residential interest-only options are available up to 75% LTV (65% for Access products). Acceptable repayment vehicles include the sale of the property, investments, and pensions. Part-and-part options, combining interest-only and repayment, are also available.
If you're a qualifying professional such as a solicitor, doctor, or accountant, it's worth asking your advisor about the enhanced 6x income multiplier. It can significantly increase how much you're able to borrow compared with the standard multiplier available to other applicants.
Compare the market
Speak to an advisor who can compare The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries against a wide range of other lenders for your circumstances.
The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries takes a flexible approach to income.
Employed applicants: there's no minimum time required in your current employment. Fixed-term contracts are accepted with a minimum of 12 months and at least 6 months unexpired, and teachers on 10-month contracts may be considered. Contractual allowances such as London weighting and shift allowances are included in full, while overtime and bonus income are assessed individually.
Self-employed applicants: a minimum of 2 years' trading history is required, along with your latest accounts plus SA302s or tax calculations. Directors taking dividends need SA302s and tax year overviews, and contractors with 6 months or more remaining on their contract may qualify based on contract value.
Foster care income and foreign currency income aren't accepted.
To qualify for the 5.5x multiplier, your LTV must be 85% or below including fees, and you'll need to pass a full affordability assessment.
Acceptable properties include houses and flats (freehold and leasehold), new builds within 24 months of construction or conversion, ex-local authority properties, and shared ownership.
Leasehold requirements vary by product for minimum unexpired lease term, and buildings insurance for flats must be arranged by the freeholder or management company.
Properties requiring further assessment include non-standard construction, properties needing structural work, and properties in certain locations.
If you're self-employed, get your SA302s and tax year overviews together before you apply. The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries needs both documents, and gathering them in advance can shave days off your application.
Eligibility
Whether The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries is right for you or another lender would suit you better, we'll help you find the right option.
Fees can be added to the loan, which affects your loan-to-value calculation, or paid upfront.
A free standard valuation is included with most products, using the lender's recommended surveyors. Homebuyer reports and full structural surveys are available at extra cost if you want a more detailed assessment.
Assisted legal fees are available for remortgages using recommended solicitors, though this isn't available for unencumbered properties.
Early repayment charges apply during the fixed-rate period and vary by product, so check your specific offer. As a guide:
You can overpay up to 10% of your balance each year without triggering an early repayment charge. Both lump sum payments and regular overpayments are allowed.
You can't apply directly to The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries. Applications must go through a mortgage broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.
All applicants need a valid passport or driving licence, proof of address (a utility bill or bank statement dated within 3 months), their latest 3 months' payslips (computerised only, as handwritten payslips aren't accepted), and their latest month's bank statement showing a salary credit.
Depending on your circumstances, you may also need an employer reference if you've been employed less than 12 months, an employment contract for fixed-term roles, accounts and SA302s if you're self-employed, and evidence of your deposit source.
Application process
Initial enquiry
Your broker checks your eligibility and obtains a Decision in Principle using a soft credit search, which won't affect your credit score. A decision is typically available within 24 to 48 hours.
Full application
Once you've found a property or you're ready to remortgage, you'll complete a full application and provide supporting documents, including proof of ID, income, and bank statements.
Valuation and underwriting
A property valuation is arranged, often free with most products, and an underwriter reviews your affordability, credit history, and the property itself.
Offer and completion
Once approved, a mortgage offer is issued, valid for 6 months. Your legal work is completed, and funds are released on completion.
The Co-operative Bank scores 4.6 out of 5 on Trustpilot from over 15,000 reviews, though this covers all bank services, not just mortgages.
Common positive feedback includes helpful and knowledgeable staff, appreciation for the bank's ethical values, good in-branch service, and competitive rates.
Common complaints include phone waiting times, processing delays, confusion following online banking system updates, and some frustration with bureaucracy.
Reviews specifically mentioning mortgages praise case managers who stay in touch throughout the process, a willingness to consider individual circumstances, and clear communication about requirements.
Criticisms include longer processing times than expected, requests for additional documentation, and a learning curve with the broker portal.
Ethical credentials: The Co-operative Bank is the UK's only high street bank with a customer-led ethical policy. Your mortgage won't fund fossil fuel extraction, arms manufacturing, or other activities that conflict with the policy.
Competitive rates: pricing is competitive with major high street lenders, particularly at lower LTVs. Speak to an advisor for current figures.
Flexible income assessment: no minimum employment period for employees, acceptance of contractors on shorter remaining terms, and consideration of various income types makes this lender more accessible than some mainstream competitors.
Access products for credit blips: unlike many high street lenders that decline anyone with credit issues, the Access range provides options for borrowers with older CCJs, defaults, or discharged IVAs.
Professional multipliers: income multipliers of up to 6x for qualifying professionals can significantly increase borrowing capacity compared with standard limits.
Mutual ownership: following the Coventry Building Society acquisition, the bank is now mutually owned, meaning decisions should prioritise members and customers rather than shareholders.
Intermediary-only: you can't apply directly. This means you'll get broker advice, but it also adds an extra layer, and potentially broker fees, to your application.
No second charge products: if you're looking for a secured loan or second charge mortgage to raise funds without remortgaging, The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries can't help. You'll need a specialist secured loan lender.
Processing times: customer reviews mention processing delays, particularly during busy periods. If you need fast completion, specialist lenders may be quicker.
Limited buy-to-let range: a maximum loan of £750,000 and no limited company lending means portfolio landlords and larger investors will need to look elsewhere.
Technology catching up: while the bank has invested in its broker portal, some reviews mention systems that aren't as slick as newer fintech lenders.
Choose The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries if you want higher income multipliers for professionals (up to 6x rather than 5.5x), you'd benefit from a dedicated near-prime range with clear criteria, or ethical credentials matter to you.
Choose Nationwide if you want to apply directly, you need a higher maximum loan amount (up to £2 million), you'd value a larger branch network for face-to-face service, or you need more buy-to-let options.
Choose The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries if your credit issues are minor and older, you want lower rates than most specialist lenders, or high street backing and security matter to you.
Choose a specialist lender if you have more recent or severe credit problems, you need faster processing for a complex case, you want second charge products, or you need higher LTVs for adverse credit.
Because circumstances vary so much between borrowers, speak to an advisor who can compare these lenders side by side against your specific situation.
Ethically-minded borrowers: if you care about where your mortgage payments end up, The Co-operative Bank's ethical policy provides genuine differentiation. Your money won't fund fossil fuels, arms, or oppressive regimes.
Professionals seeking higher borrowing: solicitors, doctors, accountants, and other professionals can access up to 6x income, significantly higher than the standard multiplier, potentially adding tens of thousands to borrowing capacity.
Borrowers with minor credit issues: the Access range provides a pathway for those with older CCJs (36 months or more), defaults, or discharged IVAs who'd be declined elsewhere on the high street.
Remortgagers wanting competitive rates: assisted legal fees and generally competitive pricing make this lender worth comparing for straightforward remortgages.
You need a second charge loan or secured loan, as The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries only offers first charge mortgages. You're a portfolio landlord, as a maximum £750,000 buy-to-let loan and no limited company lending won't suit investors with larger portfolios or complex structures. You want direct access without a broker, as applications must go through an intermediary. Or you have recent or severe credit issues, as the Access range has limits and recent CCJs over £300, defaults over £1,000, or an undischarged IVA will still likely result in a decline.
At a glance
The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries offers a solid mortgage proposition backed by genuine ethical credentials and over 150 years of banking heritage. Competitive rates, flexible income assessment, and dedicated products for near-prime borrowers make it a credible alternative to mainstream high street lenders.
That said, it's not for everyone. The intermediary-only model means you'll need a broker, and the absence of second charge products limits its usefulness if you want to raise money without remortgaging.
We'd recommend The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries for:
Look elsewhere if you need:
We're a broker, not a lender. We connect you with specialists who can help with your mortgage needs, including The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries.
Getting started
Common questions
Yes. The Co-operative Bank is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by both the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. It's been operating since 1872 and is now a subsidiary of Coventry Building Society, one of the UK's largest building societies. Deposits are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme up to £85,000.
No. As the name suggests, applications must go through a mortgage broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. You can't apply directly through the bank's website or branches for these intermediary mortgage products. This ensures you receive advice before taking out a mortgage.
No. It only offers first charge mortgages, for both residential and buy-to-let. If you want a secured loan or second charge mortgage to borrow against your property without changing your main mortgage, you'll need a different lender. We can connect you with specialists who offer secured loans.
They're the same lender. Platform was the previous name for The Co-operative Bank's intermediary mortgage division. The rebrand to The Co-operative Bank for Intermediaries happened in September 2023 to better reflect the bank's ethical identity.
It depends on the nature and age of your credit issues. The Access range accepts CCJs over 36 months old (any value), CCJs of 36 months or less with a total value of £300 or under, defaults over 36 months old (any value), defaults of 36 months or less with a total value of £1,000 or under, and discharged IVAs or Trust Deeds that ended more than 3 years ago. More recent or severe credit issues will likely result in a decline. If you're worried about problem debt, free and independent guidance is available from MoneyHelper (moneyhelper.org.uk) on 0800 138 7777.
Typical timelines are 3 to 6 weeks from full application to offer, though this varies based on property valuation requirements, documentation completeness, underwriting queries, and current volumes. Complex cases or busy periods may take longer.
Standard borrowers can access up to 5.5x income at LTVs of 85% or below. Qualifying professionals, such as solicitors, doctors, and accountants, can access up to 6x income. At LTVs above 85%, the maximum drops to 4.49x.
A soft credit search is performed at the Decision in Principle stage, which doesn't affect your credit score. A full credit check is conducted when you submit a complete application, which will appear on your credit file.
Yes. You can overpay up to 10% of your outstanding balance each year without triggering early repayment charges. This applies to both lump sum payments and regular overpayments.
The Co-operative Bank is now a subsidiary of Coventry Building Society, following the £780 million acquisition completed in January 2025. For now, both organisations continue operating separately with their own banking licences, products, and services. Integration will happen gradually over several years, and there's no immediate change to mortgage products or services.
Broadly, yes. Pricing is competitive with major high street lenders, particularly at lower LTVs. Rates vary significantly depending on the loan-to-value, term, and fee structure you choose, so speak to a mortgage advisor to compare current Platform mortgage rates against a wide range of other lenders based on your circumstances.
Yes. New build properties, within 24 months of construction or conversion, are accepted subject to standard criteria and valuation. Maximum LTVs may be restricted on some new build types.
What our clients say
Shortly after I spoke with Anna, she was also very helpful and made it effortless and a nice experience.
Had a really good experience regarding arranging a secured loan. They introduced me to a great advisor. Thanks for the help.
For once a loan transaction without stress and complications. Very impressed and highly recommended.
Thrilled to share my exceptional experience with Money Saving Advisors. The website made it incredibly simple and easy to connect with an advisor. They helped me find the best deal on my remortgage and secured a very competitive interest rate!
Great advice and money saved on mortgage.
I have previously declined a loan of the value I needed from various brokers, but this website found me a reputable broker with surprisingly decent rates.
Mortgages
Compare mortgage rates from a wide range of lenders. Our expert advisors are here to help you find the right deal.
