Financial adviser network Openwork has set up an adviser-focused Coronavirus hub for its 3,900 financial advisers.

The new Coronavirus Portal for advisers has so far attracted more than 4,600 visits, says the restricted adviser firm. 

Openwork’s hub is one of a number of similar initiatives by adviser firms and providers set up since the Coronavirus lockdown.

The Openwork Portal includes Government guidance for businesses, support on advising clients remotely, tips for advising existing, new and vulnerable clients, market updates and  advice on remote working.

There is also help on protection, mortgages and wealth advice and Electronic Identity & Verification and developing methods for the secure exchange of documents.

The Openwork Academy training team has rebuilt programmes to deliver them remotely.

John Byrne, principal at London-based advice firm Gerrard Byrne, part of the Openwork network, said: “With so much uncertainty right now, especially around the financial markets and the performance of the UK economy, clients more than ever need reassurance and guidance from financial advisers.  Many of my clients have said how much it means to them to be able to speak to an adviser in these turbulent times which highlights the real value of advice.

“The support from Openwork has been invaluable, enabling our firm to provide up to the minute information to clients.”

Philip Howell, chief executive of Openwork, said: “We are all in this together and that has been demonstrated in the way the whole of Openwork has pulled together to overcome the immediate challenges of moving to remote working while at the same time increasing our dialogue with clients.

“The quick delivery of our Coronavirus Portal is an excellent example of our commitment to support our advisers and their clients. These are clients who more than ever need the wisdom and reassurance of the very personal advice that characterises Openwork.”