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7 ways you can encourage children to develop STEM skills
When children are still in primary school it can seem a little too early to be thinking about their careers. But the skills, passions, and knowledge they pick up in their early years can be incredibly important. As the workplace changes, STEM (science, technology,...
7 reasons to visit the UK’s National Parks this winter
Every year, an estimated 110 million people head to national parks across the UK. With social distancing restrictions likely to remain in place in the coming weeks, they could be the perfect place to explore and get outdoors. Planning a trip to the great outdoors may...
The 2021 guide for first-time buyers
Are you hoping to buy your first home in 2021? Buying a property is an exciting milestone, but it’s one that can be stressful too. So, here’s our guide for first-time buyers. Rising house prices have meant it’s more challenging than ever for first-time buyers to step...
What are your options with an interest-only mortgage?
While interest-only mortgages have become less popular, millions of people have one and need a repayment strategy in place. If you do have an interest-only mortgage it’s important to review your plans as figures suggest almost half of borrowers will experience a...
10 motivational books to help you get the most out of 2021
What are your plans for 2021? Staying motivated when you’re working towards a goal can be challenging for everyone, but these ten books can provide a boost when you need it most. 1. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson You can learn a lot by delving into the history and...
5 tips for ‘switching off’ when you’re working from home
Thousands of people have welcomed the shift in working from home. It’s helped us stay safe during the pandemic, as well as saving money and providing more free time. However, one of the negative effects is that the lines between work and personal life have become...
7 mortgage tips that could save you money in 2021
As a new year starts, it’s a great time to review your mortgage. It’s a step that could save you money now and over the full term of your mortgage. Even a relatively small saving each month can add up over the years you’ll be paying a mortgage. Here are seven tips...
Is health insurance something you should consider?
As the NHS continues to battle the challenges of Covid-19, you may be considering taking out health insurance. The pandemic means many people are facing delays and unable to book appointments when they want to speak to a health professional due to backlogs and...
Protecting your business: What you need to know about key person insurance
If you’re a business owner, there will be plenty on your mind. From the day-to-day tasks to a long-term strategy, you’ll need to make many decisions. But if you or another key worker were ill, how would your business fare? The loss of a keyworker can devastate a...
£1.9 billion gifted to younger generations during the pandemic
The pandemic and restrictions have meant many families are struggling financially or feel insecure. Research suggests that younger generations have been turning to parents and grandparents for a helping hand. However, some older family members haven’t fully considered...
Financial health check: How do you score?
How do you rate your financial security? When you think about your financial situation, what defines it as ‘healthy’? For 77% of Brits, financial success is having the financial freedom to do what they want without worrying, according to research from Schroders...
Are Premium Bonds a good place for your savings?
With interest rates low and investment markets experiencing volatility throughout 2020, you may be looking for an alternative place to put your money. Premium Bonds are an option you may be considering, but you could end up missing out on returns. What are Premium...
Have you prepared emotionally for retirement?
Have you started preparing for retirement yet? If you’re nearing this milestone you may have contemplated whether your pension will be enough and how you’ll create an income. It’s often the financial side of retirement that people focus on. It’s understandable why....
Lasting Power of Attorney: Why is it something we put off?
Naming a Lasting Power of Attorney is something that we should all do. It’s something that can provide us with security if we’re unable to make decisions. While it’s often something that’s associated with being elderly, it’s just as important for younger generations...
Your complete guide to mortgages
At some point in our lives, most of us will need to take out a mortgage if we aspire to own a home. Yet, mortgages and the process of securing one can still be filled with jargon and other complexities. Our guide aims to provide you with all the information you need...
7 tips for sticking to your new year’s resolution
‘New year, new me,’ goes the common saying. The start of a new year is often seen as a time to reinvent yourself and make plans towards goals. With 2020 causing so many setbacks and challenges, you may be thinking about setting a new year’s resolution to start 2021 on...
Travel trends for 2021
This year has meant cancellations and a need to rearrange travel plans thanks to Covid-19. Now, as vaccines have been unveiled, you may be thinking about where you can visit in 2021. Whether you hope to visit a destination you’ve visited before or somewhere new, the...
5 DIY tasks that could add value to your property – and 4 that could cost you
According to a survey published in the Independent, more than half of Brits took on DIY projects during lockdown. The research found that doing DIY had helped more than two-thirds of people to combat boredom, while another one in three said it meant they would have...
What are homebuyers looking for in 2021?
Are you planning to sell your home in the new year? Understanding what potential buyers are looking for can help you position your home to gain more attention and hopefully increase the price you receive for it. House prices predicted to fall 14% During the first...
How to beat the Stamp Duty holiday deadline
Since its introduction in July 2020, the Stamp Duty holiday has helped homebuyers save thousands of pounds on property purchases. If you complete a purchase on your main home during the Stamp Duty holiday, you don’t have to pay tax on property values up to £500,000....
What has 2020 taught us about investing?
2020 has been an eventful year for investment markets. Impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and government responses to this, there have been many valuable investment lessons that will apply in 2021 and beyond. As the extent of the pandemic became known in March, stock...
Balancing debt: What should you pay off first?
Social distancing restrictions means UK households are saving more. But with interest rates low, they’re getting little in return for saving. If you have debts, using some of the money to pay these off quicker could make more sense. According to Moneyfacts, the UK...
The pension basics everyone needs to know
Most workers are now paying into a pension. But research shows that there is a worrying lack of understanding about how pensions work and why they’re a good option for saving for retirement. According to Royal London, seven in ten people admit they have little or no...
10 steps to take if you’re retiring in 2021
The way people see retirement has changed over the years. It’s no longer the stereotypical comfortable slippers and a relaxed lifestyle. Indeed, for many, it’s very much a second life – the time to enjoy doing things they couldn’t because they were too busy working...
New year’s resolutions to improve your finances
The start of a new year is the perfect time to get your finances in order. A few simple changes could improve your finances in 2021 and beyond, setting you up for a healthier financial future. So, whether your finances are in a muddle or you just want to ‘do better’,...
How to boost your mood as the nights draw in
The nights are drawing in and it can affect our mood. If you’re suffering from the winter blues, there are some things you can do to improve your outlook. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), sometimes known as winter depression, is a type of depression that comes and...
Half of workers planning a career change in the coming months due to Covid-19
Covid-19 has prompted many discussions about working environments and the future of employment, such as working from home, from a business perspective. But for millions of workers, the pandemic has led them to think carefully about their employment and the changes...
The best National Trust gardens for a winter walk
The days are getting darker and chillier and you may have plans to stay inside where it’s cosy. But getting out and about can boost your mood, plus frost and beautiful winter-flowering plants mean a walk can be magical this time of year. The National Trust boasts some...
The tech that could transform your home this decade
When you think of your childhood home, what technology did it boast? While we don’t think too much about how homes change from year to year, tech and gadgets do influence our personal spaces and how we use them. It wasn’t too long ago that it was unheard of to have a...
Rise in multi-generational households: Could it benefit all generations?
A third of UK households are now multi-generational, according to Aviva. While it does present challenges, it could benefit all generations and improve financial security. It’s estimated that across the UK, nine million homes are occupied by multiple generations. It’s...
Will house prices fall in 2021?
House prices have been climbing in recent weeks as pent up demand means there’s more competition for each property. Yet, forecasts suggest that property prices could fall in the New Year. The impact of Coivd-19 on the property market The property market temporarily...
6 reasons to use a mortgage broker
When you’re moving home, it comes with a lot of expenses and you may be looking for ways to reduce costs. However, paying a mortgage broker to work on your behalf can add value and mean you save money over the term of your mortgage. The mortgage market can seem...
Why financial lessons are important for children and teens
Financial education in childhood is crucial. Attitudes and habits formed in our tentative years can have an impact in adulthood. Passing on your financial knowledge and the lessons you’ve learnt to children and grandchildren can lead to them being more financially...
Revealed: the wellbeing and emotional impact of financial advice
It should come as no surprise that we believe financial advice adds real value to the lives of our clients. While the financial benefits of advice are often discussed, the value it can add in terms of wellbeing is sometimes overlooked but is just as valuable. The...
Balancing investment risk and reward: What should you consider?
We know that investments come with risk and the value of your investments can fall. With risk linked to potential rewards, it can be difficult to know how much risk is appropriate for you. When we make financial decisions, lots of factors can influence what you...
Talk Money Week: The benefit of family financial planning
Each November, Talk Money Week takes place. It aims to get the nation talking about managing money, from discussing pocket money with children to chatting about pensions. Money can be a taboo subject, even among families. But talking openly about money, financial...
Why a desire to keep active is driving flexible retirement goals
Brits planning for retirement are shunning a transitional ‘cliff-edge’ approach. Instead, as life expectancy increases, we’re more likely to view retirement as a transition. While it presents an opportunity to pay into a pension for longer, it comes with challenges...
Underestimating the amount you need in retirement: How a mid-life check can help
Do you know how much you need to save into your pension for the retirement you want? Millions of pension savers are underestimating how much they’ll need once they give up work. It’s a miscalculation that could lead to a retirement that doesn’t meet expectations. Even...
5 apps that can help you learn something new every day
Want to learn something new but can’t seem to find the time to dedicate to it? Using an app on your phone is the perfect way to pick up small chunks of knowledge when it suits you. From listening during a commute to watching a quick video during lunch, it’s an...
7 signs your work-life balance could benefit from an adjustment
Earlier this month marked National Work Life Week, which aims to encourage both employers and employees to focus on wellbeing and striking the right balance between work and life. The pandemic has accelerated trends in working practices, more people are working from...
How to create a CV that will stand out
The current job market is extremely competitive. The impact of Covid-19 has meant some businesses have been forced to make cuts or suspend hiring plans. Whether you’re looking to progress in your career or are searching for a job after being made redundant, it’s...
Classic films to enjoy this autumn
The nights are drawing in and ongoing Covid-19 restrictions mean we’re going to be spending more time indoors than usual this autumn and winter. It’s the perfect excuse to grab a bowl of popcorn and put on a classic film. There might be plenty of action-packed films...
Millennials struggle with homeownership: 5 things that could help
Getting on the property ladder has always been a struggle. But a combination of soaring rents, rapidly rising house prices and stagnant wages means many millennials are worrying they’ll never be able to purchase their own home. For the millennial generation, the...
7 things to check on your credit report before applying for a mortgage
The property market might be affected by the impact of Covid-19 at the moment, but some things remain the same. If you’re hoping to buy a home, a lender will use your credit report when assessing your application. Before applying for a mortgage, checking your credit...
How the surge in house prices could affect securing a mortgage
House prices have reached a record high following the introduction of the Stamp Duty holiday and viewings now being allowed after a temporary ban due to Covid-19. The Halifax House Price Index reports house prices have increased by 5.2% year-on-year; the strongest...
Why financial advice can be important following the loss of a loved one
When you’re coming to terms with the loss of a loved one, financial planning will be one of the last things on your mind. Yet, in the months afterwards, it can provide security and help you plan for the rest of your life. Bereavement can mean you may no longer take...
Good Money Week: ESG and investment sustainability
Do you consider sustainability when making financial decisions? It’s a consideration that’s becoming more popular for a variety of reasons. While sustainability in finance is often associated with incorporating ethics and values, it can help improve your long-term...
7 scary pension mistakes to avoid this Halloween
The nights are drawing in and Halloween is around the corner. But while you might get spooked watching a horror film this season, pension mistakes can be just as scary (and cost you far more). With that in mind, here are seven pension mistakes to avoid to keep your...
5 steps the self-employed should take to prepare for retirement
More people are becoming self-employed and it’s a step that’s been linked to improved wellbeing. But it can mean your financial security falls, particularly when looking ahead to retirement. For self-employed workers, it’s important to take steps that can ensure your...
Pension age rises to 57: What does it mean?
From 2028, you won’t be able to access your Personal Pension until the age of 57. The government’s decision could affect your retirement plans and it’s important to review what it means for your future. The government previously stated it intended to increase the age...
7 European destinations to plan a trip to in 2021
The traditional summer holiday may have been cancelled for millions this year due to Covid-19 travel restrictions. If your plans have been put on hold, now could be the perfect time to research some new European destinations for 2021. With social distancing measures...
Top 7 retirement hotspots to consider
Are you thinking about relocating in retirement? Every year, thousands of over-65s decide to move to a new location to enjoy their retirement. Data from the Office for National Statistics found that leaving urban areas in favour of rural locations, the coast and areas...
7 things you can do to boost productivity
At times, we’re all guilty of being unproductive. Whether it’s because you’re struggling to focus on a task at hand or you have multiple deadlines competing for attention, it can be a challenge to get back in the right frame of mind. But there are small steps you can...
5 things to expect when you return to work in the office
As lockdown eases and employers carry out Covid-19 risk assessments, you may soon be able to return to the office. After months of working remotely, there may be things you are looking forward to – and some aspects of remote working that you may miss. As life slowly...
7 tips if you want to invest in Buy to Let property
While property prices may have stalled during the lockdown, early signs point to a recovery now restrictions have been lifted. If you’re looking for assets to invest in, a Buy to Let property can be attractive. Rental yields have climbed significantly in recent years,...
Chancellor brings in Stamp Duty holiday, how much could you save?
As lockdown measures were brought in, property viewings ground to a halt and the number of sales fell sharply. If you were hoping to purchase a property, the good news is that the sector is now open for business again and you could benefit from a Stamp Duty holiday....
Older borrowers facing challenges securing mortgages
If you’re in retirement and have mortgage debt, research indicates it can be far more challenging to secure a mortgage. You may be forced to pay higher interest rates without a new deal, placing further pressure on your finances. It’s not uncommon to still be paying...
Giving to charity: How it can be tax-efficient too
Supporting worthy causes is often something people want to include in their financial plan, whether through regular donations or a charitable legacy in their will. The good news is that to encourage charitable giving, there are tax breaks you can benefit from too. If...
Should you choose cash or stocks during Covid-19 volatility?
With the stock market experiencing volatility due to Covid-19 earlier this year and further uncertainty about the state of the economy, you may be wondering how to make the most of your savings. Should you save in a cash account or invest? Research from Aegon found...
4 financial steps to take if you’re facing redundancy
As Covid-19 lockdown restrictions ease, there are still concerns about what it means for the economy. As the furlough scheme ends, you may be worried about what it means for your job role or you may have already been made redundant. While it’s the short-term...
Is your business protected with a Lasting Power of Attorney?
When we discuss financial planning, ensuring long-term security for you and loved ones is often a priority. But for business owners, they also need to ensure they protect their firm in the event of something happening to them. If you haven’t already taken steps to...
5 things to consider when you come into unexpected money
Everyone has at some point daydreamed about what they’d do if they suddenly came into a large amount of money. But what would you do if it really happened? Whether it’s enough money to buy a new car or a gold-plated yacht, if you receive an unexpected windfall you...
What to do if you have multiple small pension pots
Throughout your career, you’ve probably contributed to a few pensions. It can be easy to lose track of them, so you may have considered consolidating them into one larger pension instead. Indeed, research from the Pension Policy Institute shows that there are eight...
5 tips for getting children ready to go back to school
Every year as the summer holidays come to a close, ‘back to school’ slogans and tips for getting children ready to head back to full-time education spring up everywhere. This year though, some children will be going back after having nearly six months off school due...
The benefits of a daily walk
When the lockdown started, going out once a day to exercise became one of the things we all looked forward to. Now, as things get back to normal and workplaces that shut down reopen, there are reasons why you should turn that daily walk into a lifelong habit. If it’s...
10 of the best stately homes to visit around Britain
Our heritage sites and stately homes are starting to open up again and welcome guests. If you’re planning a summer day trip, why not stop by one of these homes steeped in history, stunning to look at and surrounded by beautiful gardens? Here are ten of our favourites...
10 brilliant books by BAME authors you should read right now
Reading lets you expand your mind, explore new experiences and learn more about the world around us. If you’re looking for a new addition to add to your bookshelf this summer, here are ten exceptional options from BAME authors that offer different perspectives whether...
Rise in flexible working could affect the housing market
The Covid-19 pandemic is expected to be the catalyst for significant workplace changes, including more flexible working options. It’s a trend that could affect the housing market as aspiring buyers shift their priorities. When searching for a home, ease of getting to...
Could a guarantor mortgage help you secure a home?
If you’ve been saving up to buy your first home, it may feel like the goalposts have been moved. First-time buyers are often told to save between 5-10% for a deposit on their home. But the impact of coronavirus means that lenders are likely to be demanding double this...
5 things you might not know about Equity Release
Every year older homeowners use Equity Release to help access millions of pounds to fund retirement. As property prices have risen significantly and time spent in retirement gets longer, it’s becoming an increasingly popular option. But is it one that’s right for you?...
Financial protection myth: Policies don’t pay out
Financial protection can provide you and your loved ones with security. However, there are myths that stop people from choosing a product that may be right for them. One of these is that financial protection policies don’t pay out and insurers will find any reason not...
What happens if you don’t have a Power of Attorney in place?
A Power of Attorney is just as an important part of estate planning as writing a will. Yet, it’s something that many people overlook, potentially leading to challenges for their loved ones and placing themselves in a vulnerable position. Power of Attorney gives...
3 financial lessons to teach young adults before they go to university
Young adults planning to head to university this year have faced more challenges than usual thanks to Covid-19. Yet, come September, thousands will still be heading to university and, for some, that will mean independence for the first time. Questions remain over how...
What should you check when reviewing your pension?
Have you reviewed your pension lately? Even though we make regular contributions to pensions, it’s not often something we think about until retirement is approaching. However, keeping track of progress during our working lives is important too. Figures show that...
5 steps that allow you to handle a financial crisis
Even with careful financial planning, shocks can happen. Often financial crises are unexpected and out of our control, so it’s important to have a safety net to fall back on. However, research suggests that most people don’t feel confident in their ability to overcome...
5 ways the Chancellor could recoup the cost of Covid-19
While the health concerns of the Covid-19 pandemic remain, some of the focus is now shifting to the economic impact. Measures taken to reduce the spread of infection and save jobs have cost the government a huge amount that will need to be recouped in some way. The...
Retirement planning as a couple: Balancing different goals
Planning for retirement should be an exciting time in your life. You’re able to give up work and focus on the things you enjoy. But what if your aspirations and financial expectations don’t line up with your partner’s? Creating a balance can help both of you feel...
Mindfulness: How to reduce stress and anxiety
At times we all feel stressed and anxious. Amid the current circumstances, you may feel more stressed than usual and not able to access your usual way of unwinding, whether it was hitting the gym or meeting up with friends. Mindfulness can help you feel calmer and...
5 things to consider if you’re thinking about changing your investments
When it comes to investing, it’s often best to create a tailored financial plan and leave investments for the long term without tinkering. However, it can be tempting to make adjustments. Whilst this may be the right decision in some cases, it’s important to weigh up...
7 things to do if you’re retiring in 2020
Are you planning to retire this year? If so, congratulations! Retirement is a milestone you may have been looking forward to for years, but it’s not one you should just dive into. There are steps you should take to ensure your retirement lives up to expectations. 1....
Lockdown checklist: 6 financial steps to take during the pandemic
If you’ve been putting off reviewing your finances, the lockdown is the perfect opportunity to complete some tasks that could help make sure your finances and plans remain on track. With potentially more time on your hands, here are seven things to do during the stay...
What are your rights if you have a summer holiday booked?
Restrictions on travel and concerns about the coronavirus pandemic may have affected your holiday plans for the summer months. There’s been a lot of contradictory information about what you’re entitled to and if you must cancel. So, we take a look at what your rights...
6 ways to improve cooking skills in lockdown
Hoping to come out of lockdown with new skills? Why not try your hand at mastering new cooking skills and recipes? Not only is it an opportunity to pass the time, but you’ll also get to dig into delicious plates of food now and in the future. If you’re looking for...
Demand for rented homes bounces: 5 things to consider before becoming a landlord
After a brief slump, the demand for rented homes has bounced back. After decades of rising property pieces and rental yields, it’s easy to see why people want to invest their savings in the property market. However, being a landlord comes with outgoings and...
First-time buyers, remember to factor in these costs
If you’re a first-time buyer, you’ve probably been focussing on getting a deposit together that will allow you to secure a mortgage. Yet, numerous other costs need to be factored into stepping onto the property ladder too. It’s not surprising that the deposit is the...
7 tips for homeschooling
With schools closing down several weeks ago and no firm plans of when children will be heading back to the classroom yet, parents across the UK are having to tackle homeschooling. It’s an experience that can be rewarding, but that doesn’t mean it’s not without its...
DIY projects that could boost the value of your home
With more time indoors, Brits have been turning to DIY during the pandemic. It’s perfect for filling the time but, choose the right project, and it could add value to your home too, and it doesn’t have to be a huge renovation project. So, where should you be investing...
Is university worth it for children and grandchildren?
For students planning to head to university, it’s already been an emotional time. With college suspended due to Covid-19 and exams cancelled, there has been some uncertainty around how grades will be awarded, which could affect where they head to study for the next...
Why you should have a Power of Attorney in place
Millions of Brits haven’t named a Power of Attorney. It may seem like something you can put off for a while, but it’s something we should all have in place. A Power of Attorney is a legal document which gives someone you trust the ability to make decisions on your...
Is now the time to invest?
Global stock markets have suffered due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and you may have heard suggestions that now is the ‘perfect time to buy’. After all, in an ideal world, you want to buy when stock prices are low and sell at a high. However, it’s not as...
Should you take a tax-free lump sum from your pension?
Being able to take a tax-free lump sum out of your pension when you reach pension age certainly sounds appealing. It can help you kick-start retirement plans and fully enjoy the milestone, but is it always the right decision to make? Currently, you’re able to take a...
7 tips for living longer healthily
Not so long ago, the stereotype of old age focused on the negative. Perhaps facing illness or struggling to leave the house. Today, that’s not the reality for many people. It’s common to see people in their 80s and beyond fully enjoying their life. So, what can you do...
Insurance: Why are we more likely to protect pets and possessions than ourselves?
Did you know that people are twice as likely to insure a pet than they are to take out protection for themselves? It’s a decision that could leave some people financially vulnerable. According to a study, over a third of UK employees said they have, or would take out,...
A quick guide to retirement interest-only mortgages
If you’re approaching retirement and still have some time left on your mortgage, it can be a concern and take up a significant portion of your income. Traditionally, retirees would strive to reach the milestone debt-free. However, there are many potential factors that...
Why financial planning is important for Generation X
Generation X is likely to be facing big life and financial decisions. Yet, only a small portion is working with a financial adviser to ensure their future is secure. A nationwide study found that just 8% of those aged between 39 and 54 has spoken with an independent...
4 ways you can efficiently pass wealth on to the next generation
Do you intend to pass on wealth to loved ones? If you want to help children and grandchildren become more financially secure, you need to consider more than just the sum you’ll be giving them. Tax rules may mean you need to think carefully about how you do so, as well...
What’s the purpose of your retirement?
Purpose in life gives you a sense of direction and provides meaning. Having a purpose can improve your wellbeing throughout life, and it’s no different when you’re in retirement. Understanding what your purpose is can make the next chapter of your life more...
How to save for retirement in your 20s
When you start your career, saving for retirement isn’t likely to be a priority. But more young people are saving into a pension than ever and it pays to understand what it means for your future. Whilst you might have left your 20s behind, you may have children or...
3 things to keep in mind when accessing your pension at 55
For most people, their pension becomes accessible from the age of 55. If you’re nearing your 55th birthday, you might be tempted to make a withdrawal, whether as a one-off lump sum or regular income. However, using your pension as soon as you can, may have a greater...
Investment market update: November 2019
Welcome to our latest update on the investment market. We take a quick look at some of the key factors that influenced the stock market in November and could continue to do so over the coming months. The hot topics that have affected the markets in 2019, Brexit, the...
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