Special Episode - The Guild's reaction following the recent Government 'Call for Evidence'

In this special episode, David and Trevor sit down with Stephen Bassett, Chair of The Guild of Business Finance Professionals, to talk about the state of business lending in the UK.

On March 13, 2025, the Government launched a call for evidence to review the current lending landscape and better understand what’s holding UK businesses back from getting the best financial support they need.

It’s a conversation that builds on previous episodes, all 3 voice the growing concerns and especially around ensuring that business owners’ best interests are at risk unless the signposting to a business finance professional is not high enough. 

Are lenders who deal directly with business owners really acting in their clients’ best interests? Or are sales targets taking priority? And is the pressure to compete leading to questionable marketing tactics that are misleading and are leaving many business owners in the dark and, at worst, with the wrong and/or an expensive debt option.

Stephen doesn’t hold back. He’s calling on the Government to recognise the chaos in the marketplace and the urgent need for proper signposting, so that businesses know where to turn for reliable advice before taking on debt.

All three bring deep experience and strong views to the table, tackling the real obstacles businesses face in finding the right finance from the right lenders. They argue that a trusted advisory route is key to helping UK businesses survive, grow, and boost the economy.

Agree? Disagree? Got your own experience to share whether it be good, bad, or ugly? Drop a message and join this ongoing conversation.