Edinburgh-based private bank Hampden & Co has announced plans to enter the intermediary mortgage market, partnering with Paradigm Mortgage Services.

The bank, which was launched in June 2015 with offices in Edinburgh and London, specialises in bespoke lending solutions for high net worth clients with complex mortgage arrangements.

Unlike competitors, it does not offer any wealth management or investment advice services, enabling their bankers to work alongside clients’ other advisers.

Graeme Hartop, CEO of Hampden & Co, said: “Working collaboratively as part of a client’s advisory team is core to what we offer at Hampden & Co. Approximately 75% of residential mortgage business is via the intermediary market with many of these clients being high net worth individuals who don’t necessarily fit with high street bank’s lending formulas. We therefore feel there is huge potential to help clients looking for a bank who can take their individual circumstances into account. Entering this market with a carefully selected partner is a logical step for us.”

He added: “Under Paradigm’s umbrella are a large number of directly authorised intermediary firms, many of whom specialise in supporting the unique needs of High Net Worth clients, so it was a natural fit. Paradigm also pride themselves on the personal and bespoke service they offer their advisers - so we also align on a strategic level.”

John Coffield, head of Paradigm Mortgage Services, said: “Hampden & Co offers a bespoke lending service to clients and this new arrangement allows selected Paradigm member firms to introduce suitable clients to the bank in order to access its services. As in the main market, there is an increasing complexity to many borrowers’ income sources – especially the case for wealthy individuals – and it’s important they work with lenders and banks that understand the need for a bespoke lending service.”

The launch into the intermediary market will roll out “over the next few weeks”, Mr Hartop said.

He added: “There is no doubt the large banks want to reduce costs, as we have seen with the recent branch closure announcements from the High Street, and redundancies in the Private Banking sector. These cost reductions invariably lead to a very de-personalised banking experience. Many successful people however still value a personal, professional service. That’s what we do, and it’s working.”