Pensions and retirement planning increasingly feature in the media, as governments and individuals struggle to bridge the gap between expectations of a comfortable retirement and the cost of providing it. With people living longer, the cost of funding a decent pension increases as each year goes by.

Both in the UK and abroad, governments have been increasing the age at which state pensions become payable, and this trend is almost certain to continue. Many people would prefer to retire earlier than the state pension age, however, and they in particular need to ensure that they have the financial resources to enable them to do so.

Our retirement planning for clients normally starts with pensions and the tax-efficient opportunities that they offer. We also look at other more flexible investments which can either be held alongside a pension arrangement or be purchased as an alternative.

We are experienced in advising not only individuals but also employers on how best to plan for the future. Pension legislation has a habit of changing each year, and with more changes planned for the next five years there has rarely been a more important time to seek independent advice in this area.

Regulatory bodies now stipulate that advice on certain aspects of retirement planning and pensions can only be offered by advisers holding the Advanced Financial Planning Certificate qualification G60. In order to meet this specialised requirement, we offer the professional services of two financial planners holding this prestigious qualification.