Castlegate Financial Services is a Nottingham based
mortgage broker
Specialising in property finance, financial planning, investments and insurance for clients in Nottinghamshire, across the UK and overseas.
From residential property to buy to let portfolios; refurbishment projects to short term bridging requirements, retirement planning, and company finance, our highly skilled brokers assist with a full range of requirements. No case too complicated, our family-run business has supported our clients for nearly 40 years, helping thousands make their financial dreams a reality.
Castlegate Financial Services has a long standing family history. We are there for the moments that matter most to you and your family.
Established in 1983, and one of the largest financial services business in the East Midlands at the time, Castlegate Financial Services is and always has been a business built on family values.
Taking over the family business in 2014, Director, Sian Mitchell, has continued to develop our unique and personable service which has help thousands of clients in Nottinghamshire and across the UK to achieve their financial goals.
We're different
because we are real!
Not your typical brokerage, Sian’s vivacious personality, passion for people, and empowering can do attitude has made Castlegate Financial Services the business it is today.
Described by our clients as anything but your stereo-typical mortgage broker, our love for our work shines through, creating a unique experience that breaks those stale and boring corporate clichés!
“Castlegate Financial Services isn’t just a business, it’s my blueprint. The company was established in 1983 by my Uncle and my Father took over in 1996 and passed the company to me in 2014. This in itself gives me great pride and love for my business. I have seen first-hand where the business has come from and I have been on its journey from as early as I can remember.”
SIAN MITCHELL – DIRECTOR
People are our passion
Exceptional service our standard
People are our passion. In our eyes, our clients and brokers are all part of our extended family, and we look after our family. That’s why when we work with you, we invest our time in really getting to know you and your needs. More than just an advisor, we are invested in your future, and pride ourselves on making things happen for you.
Exceptional service is at the heart of our business. Built through trust, understanding, industry experience and great communication – we go the extra mile to ensure you have an enjoyable experience, every step of the way.
Our Team
Sian Mitchell
Director
“I help my clients overcome their financial hurdles, working with them to plan their goals and help them understand how we can achieve them.”
Joining the family business officially in 2005, Sian has actually been a part of Castlegate since she was a baby, finally taking over the reins to the independent family business in 2014.
Since then she has continued to shape and transform the business into the client-focused mortgage service that it is today, investing in her team and the next generation of mortgage brokers to bring a high quality of talented advisors into the business.
Favourite quote:
“Live for the moment”
Most inspiring part of my role is:
The people
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was:
Travelling
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given:
“Keep it simple”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be… “Mind reading!”
If I weren’t so damn good a my job, I’d probably be:
“Bored!”
0115 933 8333
sian@castlegatefs.co.uk
Gemma Bent
Mortgage & Protection Broker
I help clients who don’t believe they can get a mortgage, achieve their financial goals and finally get on the property ladder”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in September 2017, Gemma had previously worked at Barclay’s Bank for 6 years as a personal banker.
Always having a passion for customer service and finances, Gemma is fully CeMap Level 3 qualified mortgage and protection advisor.
Favourite quote:
“Live life to the fullest and focus on the positives”
Most inspiring part of my role is:
“Helping people purchase their dream home, especially when they think it’s something that couldn’t be done”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was:
“a eagle”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is:
“Live a life true to yourself, not the life others expect of you”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: ”Wonder Woman”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be:
“a marine biologist”
0115 933 8333
gemma@castlegatefs.co.uk
Olivia Thornhill
Mortgage & Protection broker
“I help my clients find the most suitable mortgage for them, which meets all their needs!”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in July 2020, Olivia passed her CeMAP 1 in the December of that year and is on track to pass her CeMAP Level 2 & 3.
Olivia brings her experience in helping clients through stressful situations from her previous work abroad, to support her clients through the rollercoaster of obtaining a mortgage and moving home!
Favourite quote: “You got this”
Most inspiring part of my role is: “Getting to learn new things all the time and being able speak to lots of different people with lot of stories to tell”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “a Ski instructor, I love skiing and have done three ski seasons would have loved to have carried on.”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is: “To slow down and think”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: ”Talking!”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be: “downing shots in a ski resort trying to work out which way is down the mountain.”
0115 933 8333
liv@castlegatefs.co.uk
Lauren Tebb
Mortgage & Protection broker
“I help my clients understand the process of buying a house and navigating the labyrinth that is the mortgage market!”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in February 2018, Lauren had previously worked in debt management and insurance.
Experienced in helping clients understand their monthly budget, handling their finances and protecting the things that matter most, Lauren is a fully CeMap Level 3 qualified mortgage and protection advisor.
Favourite quote:
“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light”
Most inspiring part of my role is:
“Helping people achieve the things they did not think they could, from buying their dream home to making their monthly outgoings more manageable by consolidating their debts.”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was:
“a racing car driver!”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is:
“You can’t always control what happens but you can control how you deal with it and to believe in myself!”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be:
”The ability to fly”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be:
“Spending my time trying to write a novel”
0115 933 8333
lauren@castlegatefs.co.uk
Joe Mitchell
Mortgage & Protection broker
“ I help clients find the best mortgage available so that they can purchase their dream home, project or investment property. I also help to ensure that they are sufficiently protected against any unexpected life events that might affect them along the way”
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job
I’ve worked on the financial services side of Castlegate since 2020 however, I worked on the sales and lettings side of the business since 2010…so the Castlegate brand is in my blood! Prior to moving into finance, I took some time out to build a successful property investment company which continues to prosper alongside my everyday role. So I have a particular interest in working with clients who are looking to use property as a tool to achieve their financial goals.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey
I can help clients to assess the best options for them based on their circumstances and put things into action for them.
Favourite quote
‘Everybody has a plan ‘til they get punched in the face’ – Mike Tyson
Most inspiring part of your role
Helping people make major life decisions and seeing them succeed afterwards.
In another life what do you think you’d be
A shaolin monk
Best piece of advice
Be happy…but not satisfied
If you weren’t working at Castlegate, what Job would you love to do
Pro golfer
0115 933 8333
joe@castlegatefs.co.uk
Danielle Tooms
Mortgage Administrator
“Once a broker has submitted the application to the lender the case is passed on to me and I look after it from there. I keep in contact with the lenders, solicitors and clients to ensure everything runs smoothly through to completion”.
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job
I have worked for Castlegate for 1 year now and previously I worked in lettings.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey
I help my clients through the process of the application by answering any questions they may have, being available on the phone to discuss any queries and assisting solicitors to ensure a stress-free process. I can also support with sourcing buildings and contents insurance quotes to take that added stress away.
Favourite quote
Take a chance.
Most inspiring part of your role
To help clients progress and build a better future for themselves.
If you weren’t working at Castlegate, what Job would you love to do
I would like to run my own holiday bed and breakfast on the southern coast.
0115 933 8333
lauren@castlegatefs.co.uk
Rachel Overall
Executive Assistant
“I help my clients manage the intricacies of buying a house, dealing with solicitors and all other parties involved in the process”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in February 2017, Rachel has over 30 years’ experience in customer facing finance positions.
Working her way up from clerk to manager within a well-known bank, she is CeMAP Level 1 qualified and brings a well of industry experience to the team and her clients.
Most inspiring part of my role is: “The satisfaction of really helping people and getting to know them along the way”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “a millionaire…(expensive tastes!)”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is: “Think before you speak and be mindful of other people’s feelings”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: ”Flying”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be: “Sacked or running a tea shop.”
0115 933 8333
rachael@castlegatefs.co.uk
Amy Hooley
Mortgage Administrator
“I facilitate your mortgage from the start of your application being submitted to the mortgage provider, ensuring the application goes through smoothly for you. And keeping you updated until the application completes, my job is to make this process as stress-less as possible.”
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job ?
I started in November 2021,and my previous job was working at home as a telephone advisor for British gas. So, I’m used to working with clients via telephone or email.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey?
Leave them with a smile and reassurance after our phone call, as a happy call goes a long way.
Favourite quote?
“You can only do your best in your pants and your vest”
Most inspiring part of your role
For me it’s when I’ve told a client some good news on their application, as hearing their excitement in their voice makes me so happy.
In another life what do you think you’d be?
Probably a hyena because I laugh all the time, and after watching the “Lion King” with my daughter. She says my laugh very similar to the hyenas in the movie.
Best piece of advice?
Just be yourself, it’s boring trying to be someone else as everyone made special in this world
If you weren’t working at Castlegate, what Job would you love to do?
I have always wanted my own tearoom, as my baking skills are pretty good.
You’ll have to ask my team mates.
0115 933 8333
danielle@castlegatefs.co.uk
LAURA MATTHEWS
Office Supervisor
“I follow the mortgage applications through from point of submission to completion. I upload documents and respond to queries from the lender and check in weekly on progress with the solicitor and update my clients throughout.”
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job ?
I have worked for Castlegate for 1 year. Previously I worked as a department manager in a retail store.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey?
I am in regular contact with all my clients via email or phone and I am available to answer any questions they have throughout. I can also assist with any solicitor’s paperwork if they need help or support with this. I can prepare buildings and contents insurance quotes for clients if that is something they require and get this activated for them to take that additional stress away.
Favourite quote?
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.
Most inspiring part of your role?
I enjoy talking to new people and supporting clients through what can be a stressful time remortgage or purchasing their home and helping to take some of that stress away where I can. I love the team that I work with and our dedication to getting the job done for our clients.
In another life what do you think you’d be?
In another life I would love to be an event’s organiser. I love attending an event and to see the detail and effort that goes in to making them a success would be something I could see myself enjoying.
0115 933 8333
laura@castlegatefs.co.uk
SIAN MITCHELL
Director
“I help my clients overcome their financial hurdles, working with them to plan their goals and help them understand how we can achieve them.”
Joining the family business officially in 2005, Sian has actually been a part of Castlegate since she was a baby, finally taking over the reins to the independent family business in 2014.
Since then she has continued to shape and transform the business into the client-focused mortgage service that it is today, investing in her team and the next generation of mortgage brokers to bring a high quality of talented advisors into the business.
Favourite quote: “Live for the moment”
Most inspiring part of my role is: “The people”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “Travelling”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given: “Keep it simple”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be… “Mind reading!”
If I weren’t so damn good a my job, I’d probably be: “Bored!”
0115 933 8333
sian@castlegatefs.co.uk
Olivia Thornhill
Mortgage & Protection Broker
“I help my clients find the most suitable mortgage for them, which meets all their needs!”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in July 2020, Olivia passed her CeMAP 1 in the December of that year and is on track to pass her CeMAP Level 2 & 3.
Olivia brings her experience in helping clients through stressful situations from her previous work abroad, to support her clients through the rollercoaster of obtaining a mortgage and moving home!
Favourite quote: “You got this”
Most inspiring part of my role is: “Getting to learn new things all the time and being able speak to lots of different people with lot of stories to tell”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “a Ski instructor, I love skiing and have done three ski seasons would have loved to have carried on.”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is: “To slow down and think”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: ”Talking!”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be: “downing shots in a ski resort trying to work out which way is down the mountain.”
0115 933 8333
liv@castlegatefs.co.uk
Gemma Bent
Mortgage & Protection Broker
“I help clients who don’t believe they can get a mortgage, achieve their financial goals and finally get on the property ladder”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in September 2017, Gemma had previously worked at Barclay’s Bank for 6 years as a personal banker.
Always having a passion for customer service and finances, Gemma is fully CeMap Level 3 qualified mortgage and protection advisor.
Favourite quote: “Live life to the fullest and focus on the positives”
Most inspiring part of my role is: “Helping people purchase their dream home, especially when they think it’s something that couldn’t be done”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “a eagle”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is: “Live a life true to yourself, not the life others expect of you”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: “Wonder Woman”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be: “a marine biologist”
0115 933 8333
gemma@castlegatefs.co.uk
Lauren Tebb
Mortgage & Protection Broker
“I help my clients understand the process of buying a house and navigating the labyrinth that is the mortgage market!”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in February 2018, Lauren had previously worked in debt management and insurance.
Experienced in helping clients understand their monthly budget, handling their finances and protecting the things that matter most, Lauren is a fully CeMap Level 3 qualified mortgage and protection advisor.
Favourite quote: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light”
Most inspiring part of my role is: “Helping people achieve the things they did not think they could, from buying their dream home to making their monthly outgoings more manageable by consolidating their debts.”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “a racing car driver!”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is: “You can’t always control what happens but you can control how you deal with it and to believe in myself!”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: ”The ability to fly”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be: “Spending my time trying to write a novel”
0115 933 8333
lauren@castlegatefs.co.uk
Joe Mitchell
Mortgage & Protection Broker
“ I help clients find the best mortgage available so that they can purchase their dream home, project or investment property. I also help to ensure that they are sufficiently protected against any unexpected life events that might affect them along the way”
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job
I’ve worked on the financial services side of Castlegate since 2020 however, I worked on the sales and lettings side of the business since 2010…so the Castlegate brand is in my blood! Prior to moving into finance, I took some time out to build a successful property investment company which continues to prosper alongside my everyday role. So I have a particular interest in working with clients who are looking to use property as a tool to achieve their financial goals.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey
I can help clients to assess the best options for them based on their circumstances and put things into action for them.
Favourite quote
‘Everybody has a plan ‘til they get punched in the face’ – Mike Tyson
Most inspiring part of your role
Helping people make major life decisions and seeing them succeed afterwards.
In another life what do you think you’d be
A shaolin monk
Best piece of advice
Be happy…but not satisfied
If you weren’t working at Castlegate, what Job would you love to do
Pro golfer
0115 933 8333
joe@castlegatefs.co.uk
Danielle Tooms
Mortgage Administrator
“Once a broker has submitted the application to the lender the case is passed on to me and I look after it from there. I keep in contact with the lenders, solicitors and clients to ensure everything runs smoothly through to completion”.
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job
I have worked for Castlegate for 1 year now and previously I worked in lettings.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey
I help my clients through the process of the application by answering any questions they may have, being available on the phone to discuss any queries and assisting solicitors to ensure a stress-free process. I can also support with sourcing buildings and contents insurance quotes to take that added stress away.
Favourite quote
Take a chance.
Most inspiring part of your role
To help clients progress and build a better future for themselves.
If you weren’t working at Castlegate, what Job would you love to do
I would like to run my own holiday bed and breakfast on the southern coast.
0115 933 8333
danielle@castlegatefs.co.uk
Amy Hooley
Mortgage Administrator
“I facilitate your mortgage from the start of your application being submitted to the mortgage provider, ensuring the application goes through smoothly for you. And keeping you updated until the application completes, my job is to make this process as stress-less as possible.”
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job ?
I started in November 2021,and my previous job was working at home as a telephone advisor for British gas. So, I’m used to working with clients via telephone or email.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey?
Leave them with a smile and reassurance after our phone call, as a happy call goes a long way.
Favourite quote?
“You can only do your best in your pants and your vest”
Most inspiring part of your role
For me it’s when I’ve told a client some good news on their application, as hearing their excitement in their voice makes me so happy.
In another life what do you think you’d be?
Probably a hyena because I laugh all the time, and after watching the “Lion King” with my daughter. She says my laugh very similar to the hyenas in the movie.
Best piece of advice?
Just be yourself, it’s boring trying to be someone else as everyone made special in this world
If you weren’t working at Castlegate, what Job would you love to do?
I have always wanted my own tearoom, as my baking skills are pretty good.
You’ll have to ask my team mates.
0115 933 8333
amy@castlegatefs.co.uk
rachael everall
Executive Assistant
“I help my clients manage the intricacies of buying a house, dealing with solicitors and all other parties involved in the process”
Joining Castlegate Financial Services team in February 2017, Rachel has over 30 years’ experience in customer facing finance positions.
Working her way up from clerk to manager within a well-known bank, she is CeMAP Level 1 qualified and brings a well of industry experience to the team and her clients.
Most inspiring part of my role is: “The satisfaction of really helping people and getting to know them along the way”
In another life, I’m pretty sure I was: “a millionaire…(expensive tastes!)”
Best piece of advice I’ve ever been given is: “Think before you speak and be mindful of other people’s feelings”
If I were a superhero, my superpower would be: ”Flying”
If I weren’t so damn good at my job, I’d probably be: “Sacked or running a tea shop.”
0115 933 8333
rachael@castlegatefs.co.uk
Laura Matthews
Office Supervisor
“I follow the mortgage applications through from point of submission to completion. I upload documents and respond to queries from the lender and check in weekly on progress with the solicitor and update my clients throughout.”
How long have you worked for Castlegate and what was your last Job ?
I have worked for Castlegate for 1 year. Previously I worked as a department manager in a retail store.
What can you do to help the client with their application journey?
I am in regular contact with all my clients via email or phone and I am available to answer any questions they have throughout. I can also assist with any solicitor’s paperwork if they need help or support with this. I can prepare buildings and contents insurance quotes for clients if that is something they require and get this activated for them to take that additional stress away.
Favourite quote?
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.
Most inspiring part of your role?
I enjoy talking to new people and supporting clients through what can be a stressful time remortgage or purchasing their home and helping to take some of that stress away where I can. I love the team that I work with and our dedication to getting the job done for our clients.
In another life what do you think you’d be?
In another life I would love to be an event’s organiser. I love attending an event and to see the detail and effort that goes in to making them a success would be something I could see myself enjoying.
0115 933 8333
laura@castlegatefs.co.uk
The ten keys
to Castlegate
Peace of mind for all our clients
Customer
We strive to achieve great customer outcomes every time
enjoyment
We work hard and play hard
Attitude
We always have a positive attitude and passionate approach to our work
Genuine
We do business the right way
Service
We are forever raising the bar
Accountability
We put our hands up
Trust
We keep our promises
TEAMWORK
We know ‘we’ not ‘I’ will win
loyalty
We build longterm relationships
EMPOWERMENT
We make it happen
Need mortgage advice from our
fabulous brokers
If we sound like the right team of experts for you, then contact
us to see how we can help you achieve your financial goals