Credit and affordability insight | Credit decisioning and scoring | Credit Decisions

We’re scaling financial access with data

Published February 2025

| Credit and affordability insight | Credit decisioning and scoring | Credit Decisions

Written by Jon Roughley

Jon is Director of Data Strategy and Innovation for Experian UK&I. He is responsible for ensuring the organisation has its finger on the pulse of the ever-evolving world of data and the opportunities it presents.

At Experian, we’re constantly seeking ways to use data to solve complex problems and create meaningful change.

I’m thrilled to share the next evolution in our journey: free digital income and employment verification for all UK employers and their employees. This is a transformative leap forward in tackling some of the most persistent barriers to financial inclusion.

Our mission is to change the narrative. By digitising income and employment verification, we’re ensuring that more people, especially those traditionally underserved, can access the products and services they deserve.

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The power of golden source data

Income and employment verification has long been a bottleneck for both consumers and lenders. Outdated, manual processes introduce delays, errors, and opportunities for fraud – leaving many people unfairly excluded from credit, mortgages, phone contracts etc, as well as exposing their data to fraud.

That’s why this solution is a game-changer. By accessing ‘golden source data’ – directly from payroll – we’re delivering something unprecedented: less friction, more immediacy, and unmatched accuracy. This isn’t just about improving processes; it’s about empowering individuals and enabling life’s key moments to happen faster, safer, and with greater certainty.

Whether it’s securing a mortgage, renting a home, or proving employment for a new job, this new opportunity removes delays and delivers better outcomes. It provides fair, secure, and convenient access when people need it most.

The problem is few know there is a problem

Most people aren’t aware of the challenges behind the scenes. They only see the rejection – a declined application, an arduous journey, an opportunity missed. They aren’t adept in what is powering those things. Additionally, many are unaware that these problems can be solved – and the benefits of doing so.

Why this matters to employers

Employers have a unique opportunity to lead the way in this transformation. By enabling Work Report^®, you’re not just improving your employees’ financial well-being – you’re demonstrating authentic care and creating a stronger, more inclusive culture.

And the best part? It’s free. For employers and employees alike, there’s no cost to benefit from this service. The costs are covered through our traditional lending propositions, ensuring a win-win for all parties.

Life doesn’t wait – and neither should progress. Let’s make it happen.

This is more than a service – it’s a movement toward a fairer financial system. At the ‘click’ of a button, employers can help champion financial inclusion across their organisations and beyond, benefit from greater wellbeing – and save time and cost, in the process.

Together, we can unlock opportunities, remove barriers, and create a future where financial access isn’t a privilege but a given.