Jon Elkins

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Merging of 2 pensions & realising a release of some capital, but getting the best value for money

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

I was able to hand over all the relevant papers (electronically) to Jon, and he dealt with the pension company on my behalf, which was really trouble free & peace of mind

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

NA

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We were seeking reassurance and ideas about how best to manage our next steps with a second career as a holiday home business.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon was very knowledgeable and conducted detailed financial assessments for us, building a number of projection scenarios. We had the opportunity to test the scenarios with different assumptions, both more cautious and more optimistic. Jon challenged us to think more deeply about our planning, and as a result of his care, attention to detail and advice we now feel confident we can take the next steps with our career change. We know the scenarios we mapped out won't be exactly how the future plays out, but we understand the underlying model well enough to have confidence.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definitely. The whole experience was a 10/10!

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

We had a Zoom call to discuss whether Jon could help us with financial planning. He was very clear about what he can do and what the costs were. Though it was a 15min initial discussion, he didn't rush it and made sure he had answered all my questions before we concluded the session.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

I found the initial consultation informative and helpful

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Quickly understood what I required within my investment strategy

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon was courteous and advised me all that I needed to know about my finances. A very professional chap. Bill Wotton

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Amazing! Jon listened to me, explained things very clearly, and was very professional and friendly througout. I was impressed with the level of preparation he had done in advance of our first meeting.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon Is very professional and provide good advise which enable me to make a sound decision on my pension I would recommend him as an excellent advisor

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon was very knowledgeable about pensions and was able to understand my pension queries very quickly.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

We contacted Jon to provide advice for my wife's pension. We found Jon to be very personable and knowledgeable. He is very easy to deal with and we would thoroughly recommend him to anyone looking for pension advice.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

I think Jon does more than just financial advice (which he does extremely well) - it's almost lifestyle coaching and counselling and has been an enjoyable process. Speaking about money for most people is often akin to going to the dentist...

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We wanted to review our financial health and plan for the retirement phase of our lives which will be upon us in the next few years. Had no recommendations for a Financial Adviser and spoke to several options.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Our first introductory meeting with Jon went very well, he listened to what we needed and was clear on his services and costs. Jon took the time to understand what we wanted and was always willing to answer questions and able to explain exactly what would happen with different scenarios.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have found the whole process extremely useful; Jon challenged us to think of what we wanted in retirement with advice and a plan to achieve our goals. What can sometimes be a bewildering and complicated process was made a lot more pleasant with Jon’s help.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

I found Jon easy to talk to and my questions were answered in a way I could understand. Very good first impression.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon phoned me today for an initial discussion about his pension services & to find out what I was expecting. He was prompt & professional but also very personable. I was immediately happy to engage in conversation with him. Jon was open about his services & fees so that I could decide if this was the right service for me. My initial impression was excellent!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Review submitted on 17/04/2023: 02/02/2023 I emailed Mr Elkins and explained that I was seeking advice on how to reinvest a pension plan I had recently transferred as cash. I requested details of his fixed fee charges. Rather than answer my question he replied: “Did you read any of my website content - for example how we work, what we do, or the blog? Or are you simply attracted by my fee model?” 03/03/2023 I explained the selection process I had used and that his planning guide said “...simple and transparent fee structure...” 08/02/2023 I received no reply so I sent my email again. 09/02/2023 Mr Elkins provided the following summary “an initial fee of just under £5,000 and ongoing advice at just under £2,000 per annum.” He said the figures were for illustration only and wrote: “It is not intended as an offer to work with you. Indeed, currently I believe our services are not a good fit for your needs or character.” 16/02/2023 I replied: “Please would you explain why the fee calculator on your VouchedFor profile shows that for assets between £50,000 to £500,000 you would typically charge an initial fixed fee of £1,967 and £996 for ongoing investments? It appears that the charges shown on your VouchedFor profile are very misleading as they are less than half what you actually charge. Your photograph on your VouchedFor profile also appears to be about 20-years out of date when compared with the photograph on your company website.” As the FCA register shows that Mr Elkins is the only person within his firm who is able to give advice I asked why all his literature uses the term “we”. For example, “We pride ourselves on our honesty, integrity and ‘just doing the right thing.’“ I asked: “As I am seeking investment advice I am surprised that you do not consider this is a good fit with the service you provide. In addition, as we have never met I would be grateful if you would explain why you consider your service is not a good fit for my character.” 23/02/2023 I sent Mr Elkins a further email stating “I see that you have updated your photograph and fees on your VouchedFor profile in response to point 1 of my last email but I have not received a reply from you. Please would you resend your email if you did reply.” 17/04/2023 Mr Elkins never did reply and has seemingly decided to permanently change his charging structure on VouchedFor as he is no longer listed as a “fixed fee adviser”. In addition, he has removed the fixed fee charges that were previously displayed on his profile. Based on my experience, it appears that Mr Elkins has decided that he longer requires any new clients and can therefore be discourteous. Review updated on 24/05/2023: 21/04/2023 I submitted my review on Monday 17th but by Friday 21st it still had not been published. I contacted VouchedFor and discovered that they were waiting for Mr Elkins to confirm that I had contacted him. To prevent Mr Elkins from blocking my review I had to send VouchedFor a copy of an email I had received from him. 16/05/2023 29 days after I submitted my review I received an email from VouchedFor to notify me that Mr Elkins had posted a reply. 18/05/2023 VouchedFor notified me that Mr Elkins had updated his reply. I noticed for the first time that he had received a glowing 5-star first impression review dated May 2023. 5 days later on the 23 May 2023 another 5-star first impression review appeared. The last client review that Mr Elkins received was posted 17 months ago in November 2021. The last first impression review prior to mine was posted two years ago in May 2021. It therefore seems unusual that Mr Elkins should receive two 5-star reviews within 36 days of my 1-star review and within 5 days of him replying to my review. Mr Elkins reply to my review currently states: “I am sorry if you are upset that I did not give you the opportunity to work with me, but I did explain that our service, as described on our website and on VouchedFor, is not a good fit for you. I did not want to waste your time…” “I do not provide standalone advice on where to invest cash for clients who are essentially seeking a do-it-yourself solution, as you presented…” “I do not turn down many approaches, but when I do it is with the confidence that it is in the client’s best interests, and I am honest enough to say so.” The Fee Calculator that Mr Elkins removed from his VouchedFor profile has now been restored. It shows that for assets between £50,000 to £500,000 Mr Elkins would typically charge £595 for initial investment advice. This is all I was prepared to pay as there is a great deal of free investment advice online and I only wanted to discuss a few ideas. I did not want to waste Mr Elkins time so in the first email I sent him I named the DIY investment platform I used and explained that I was just seeking investment advice. Rather than politely telling me that he did not want my business Mr Elkins wasted my time by going through the rigmarole I described in my initial review above. The last email I received from him included copies of his client and ongoing agreements, details of his inflated charges and states: “I am currently fully committed, but if you would like me to add you to the waiting list for such a meeting then do please let me know.” As he is now claiming that he did not give me the opportunity to work with him it appears that this was not a genuine offer. I did NOT ask to be added to his waiting list but instead asked him to explain his email. As Mr Elkins did not have the courtesy to reply I gave him a bad review. I did NOT leave a bad review because he refused to take me on as a client as he now claims. Mr Elkins states in his reply “I do not provide standalone advice on where to invest cash for clients who are essentially seeking a do-it-yourself solution, as you presented.” I can still find no mention of this restriction in his VouchedFor profile. The VouchedFor website provides a filter option called “Only show fixed fee advisers”. Mr Elkins changed his profile so he was no longer listed if this option was selected but this change has now been reversed. It would be helpful if VouchedFor provided a filter option to display companies that truly charge all their clients the same fixed/flat fee. For example, I am aware that Bancroft Wealth financial advisers charge all their customers a flat fee of £500 per annum. In his reply, Mr Elkins attempts to justify quoting me a minimum charge of £5,000 by revealing that I was using the direct-to-consumer (D2C) or do-it-yourself (DIY) Interactive Investor investment platform. I used the Interactive Investor platform to hold my cash as it charges everyone the same transparent low-cost flat fees rather than a percentage of their investments. A document I downloaded from Mr Elkins website states: “Costs are certain and fund performance is not. It therefore makes sense to reduce costs wherever it is safe to do so.” I also used a D2C platform as I prefer to maintain sole control of my investments as previous personal and company appointed financial advisers have proved to be either completely incompetent or dishonest and as a result I have had to waste a considerable amount of time taking legal action against them.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My personal pension matured and I needed advice .

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon was very helpful he made it very easy to understand options I could take. And make the right decisions for me and my family by giving me advice on the best road to take.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes exceed all my expectations.

What could they have done better?

As far as I’m concerned it couldn’t have been handled better.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Due to selling a flat and not knowing what to do with the profits from the sale.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon was incredibly patient in explaining my options in layman terms so that I could understand what was available. He took a great deal of time and care to run through different proposals and modelling of portfolios.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. The account is in profit, which is what one can only hope for.

What could they have done better?

N/A

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had a sum of monet to invest

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon advised me when and where to invest and took all my circumstances into account

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Only just started my investment

What could they have done better?

Not sure really but he made me feel very comfortable and felt Jon was constantly looking after my needs.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I wanted to increase the amount of income I will have on retirement, and needed advice on the best way to invest my money now in preparation for retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon Elkins advise me on the options available to me in order to achieve my ultimate goal. He explained each option very clearly, was very patient, and advised onThe risks and benefits of each option. It enabled me to make very informed decisions on the most appropriate way for me to achieve my goal, with the level of risk I felt comfortable with.i was able to ask lots of questions to ensure that I understood everything, and John could not have been more helpful or supportive.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have now set up my investments and pension in order to achieve my goal of increased income once I reach pension age. I now have a very clear understanding of what these investments and pension are likely to achieve, including any potential risks. this is exactly what I wanted to achieve by using a financial advisor.

What could they have done better?

I can honestly say Jon Elkins could not have done anything better as my financial advisor. He was friendly, relaxed, took time to understand exactly what I wanted to achieve, understood my personal situation and the advice and options he gave me as a result were excellent. Everything was explained extremely clearly, I was able to discuss and question everything as much as I needed to, and felt very well informed when making my final decisions.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

I found Jon to be highly professional in every respect. He is approachable, quick to respond, communicates very clearly, and has provided me with clear and concise advice, tailored to my needs. You can't ask for more from a financial adviser.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon is very clear and straight forward

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Being made redundant and considering the possibility of early retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon advised me on how to consolidate my various existing pension pots to reduce costs and achieve better performance. He presented a good risk analysis of how this would support the level of income I needed if I did take early retirement. The initial consultation went well over the allotted time. I felt Jon really took the time to get to know me and understand what I wanted. This gave me a lot of confidence in taking his advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I had been meaning to seek financial advice to sort out my pension schemes for some years, and that is now done. As it happens, I have now found new employment, but I believe I am now much better prepared for eventual retirement.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Approaching retirement age so we were looking for advice and guidance on our financial plans for retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon validated our thinking and enhanced our plans by identifying additional opportunities for pension saving and investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Jon’s careful explanations and patience in answering all of our questions gave us the confidence to take up the opportunities he suggested.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

My session with Jon was great. Being in my early twenties, I wanted to better understand my current financial standing and opportunities for the near future and further. The session with Jon gave me confidence and clear direction for my immediate focuses as well as suggestions for longer term goals. I would highly recommend getting in touch with him, whatever your circumstance.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

My session with Jon was excellent and I would definitely recommend getting in touch with him. As someone who wasn't particularly knowledgeable or confident about financial products, I was initially daunted by the thought of discussing them but Jon put me completely at ease. Taking the time to understand my lifestyle and goals, Jon provided helpful, tailored and reassuring guidance. I concluded my session with Jon with a feeling of confidence and positivity.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

I booked in time to see Jon based on a recommendation, and I'm really glad I did - Jon took the time to understand my current life stage and financial situation, which ensured that the advice and recommendations he gave were relevant, clear and actionable. I feel confident that Jon's expertise will help me make more informed financial decisions in the future.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking for advice on planning our savings and investments with a view to long term goals and aspirations

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon took the time to understand us and our needs and motivations, and as then invested a lot of time in putting together a model of our savings, investments and future spending.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - we now have confidence that the spending we're doing today will not be at the expense of our comfort in the future.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Availability of investment income. Planning for early retirement

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Investment & pension advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Taking into account pandemic, yes, returns have been good

What could they have done better?

Nothing of note

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I have long been a client but my recent involvement arose as my life changed spectacularly when I was diagnosed with MND.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon worked out the best solution to deal with the proceeds of the sale of my cottage and organise my finances to provide a pension now, while still leaving open the possibility of funding long term care.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

While I’m receiving the extra pension money now, the extra for full time care is not yet needed.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My previous financial adviser had retired and it had been a few years since I'd reviewed my financial planning.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon invested time to properly understand our aims and preferred approach to financial planning in the broadest sense. This enabled him to tailor his advice appropriately.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We've certainly made initial steps that I've been very pleased with.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Sum of money from sale of house, to be invested in the most tax efficient way.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Offered good practical solutions, which satisfied our requirements

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to comment, investments made less that 6 months since.

What could they have done better?

Nothing apparent.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

As we are approaching retirement in around five years, we were looking for advice on how best to use our pension pots and savings

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon took time to listen to and understand our circumstances and what we hoped to achieve in retirement. He was able to suggest various retirement options we hadn’t necessarily thought about.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We haven’t retired yet so time will tell, but Jon is helping us devise a sensible financial plan of what we need to do both before and after retirement, which we can use to achieve our goals. But very happy with how things are working out so far.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of. Jon is very easy to talk to and explains everything very clearly.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Responded very promptly. Gave us a good amountof time and opportunity to discuss our needs and the service he could offer.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon got in touch with me very promptly and we arranged a time to talk on the next working day. He quickly understood my situation (which isn't straightforward) and took some time to look at the wider picture which was useful. He gave me hope that my situation could be resolved and was very clear about his role and how he could help in the future.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

He talked through options but concluded that we would need a Solicitor.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Someone to manage our money pot for use in retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

By providing sound advice on who should manage our money

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Always found him to be responsive to any of our inquiries and therefore received clarity concerning any issues.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking for a new pension account into which to transfer pension monies.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

I was new to pensions, and Jon clearly explained the different options which helped me to choose the most appropriate account for my circumstances. He opened the account for me, and has since very efficiently organised my income drawdown.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Recommendation from my partner, regarding my personal pension.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Arranged transfer of pension policies

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all, the advice was very clear and easy to understand.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was approaching retirement some 15 years ago and felt that some financial advice would be useful in managing my savings post retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon was recommended to me by a colleague as he had expertise in the field in which I was working. He was able to give me advice as to how I should manage my savings and pension in the time leading up to retirement and during retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Jon is very knowledgeable in his field and, although my needs are not the most complicated, he is always contactable and responds quickly to any request for advice.

What could they have done better?

I have been completely satisfied with what Jon has done for me and for my wife. Pre- retirement he arranged regular meetings and the same was true in the first few years after that. Having recently moved a long distance away from Jon I now have contact by email and, if a conversation is needed, he will use the telephone to discuss how to continue using our portfolio.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Planning early retirement following an inheritance and having several pensions between us, my wife and I wanted advice on what to do.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon planned a solution for us bearing in mind the income we would receive from the pensions and how best to use the inheritance. Jon made everything extremely clear for us and was patient at our early non understanding of it all.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Everything is falling into place nicely.

What could they have done better?

We could honestly not fault the service provided by Jon.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Wanted impartial advice on my pension and also a Retirement Plan

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He gave excellent advice and explained all the different options. Working out your pension options is confusing but he explained everything really well until I was clear in what was best for me

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet as I haven’t retired

What could they have done better?

Nothing.I was very happy with the way advised me.I didn’t feel at all under pressure or pushed into making any decisions.I have recommended him to friends.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Approaching retirement

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Reviewed how best to take my lump sum and invest it along with some other savings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon has helped my husband and I over the past few years, not just by investing wisely for us but by always providing honest and reliable support whenever we have asked for it. He is extremely personable and pleasant to deal, responding quickly to any questions however small.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Indeed, all seems to be going well for us.

What could they have done better?

I couldn't think of anything to add here.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon is able to meet you at your convenience and friendly and helpful. He carried out the requested advice at the agreed rate. Only time will tell on the advised outcomes.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Money from a divorce settlement, sale of maritsl home.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon listened carefully to all I had to say, and came up with an ideal solution for my needs,

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I have.

What could they have done better?

There is nothing that could have been better for me.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Our late mother was a regular and loyal client of Jon and sought his advice on pensions and mortgages often in the lead up to her retirement. When she passed away we needed an advisor to help us understand our options on how to deal with and eventually invest her estate.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon helped us clarify what we were up against and to understand what we needed to do. Over a call with me and my sister, he set us on the right path and reassured the concerns we had.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is too early yet to see the outcome, but in terms of seeking a greater understanding of our situation, we did achieve the outcome we needed with Jon.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Very satisfied with the service provided.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I needed a financial advisor to access products

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

he enabled the investment

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had some savings and a pension and we wanted clarity on both.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

By giving very good advice and knowing how to look at our later years in life so we would be more comfortable.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but I am sure we will.

What could they have done better?

Jon was understanding of teachers' pensions and communication has been good throughout the money transfer to Parmenion.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I wanted to understand how my pension would work if I took early retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He did everything so perfectly that I was able to understand with confidence about what next steps I could take.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely!

What could they have done better?

I really can't think of anything.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Our financial affairs have always been fairly complicated in that due to work commitments we have lived for long periods in tied accommodation. As a result we have invested in a number of buy to let properties where good advice has been paramount. From early days in our marriage (nearly 40 years ago) we have always been advised financially and as a result, with various schemes maturing, a good financial adviser has been vital - even more so in recent years with pension and inheritance factors coming into the frame

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon has provided timely and excellent advice at all stages of our dealings with him and we are extremely pleased with the investments that he has recommended. He has been an outstanding financial adviser and has always been available and ready to help when needed. His calm, friendly and thoughtful approach has been much appreciated, and we are delighted to have him as our financial adviser

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so. We are extremely pleased with both our pension arrangements and the investements he has recommended, and as a result feel that we are in a good position financially as we have entered into our retirement phase.

What could they have done better?

The only thing I might suggest is that he sends us more promotional literature for the services that he offers so that we can use it when recommending him to others. Otherwise his service has been first class!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

As a couple, approaching retirement age, we needed sound advice to manage our pensions towards our retirement and give advice during our retirement. John had managed my husband's pension for over 10 years prior to his retirement. He now manages our pension fund having consisted our plans for the future.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He gave questions to think about before giving us any options on how to manage our pension funds.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, our funds have been invested well and generating a good income. Of course there is Amway risk involved in investment s but this has been carefully explained to us before we took out the policy.

What could they have done better?

No. John always returns our calls & advises us when we need it. There is no hard 'sell' of any products.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Had a number of pensions and ISA's that needed brining together and investing as a pot.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon came to our home and after taking full details and asking lots of questions he came back to us with suggestions on where we could place our investment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Our investment was moved only a short time ago into the Financial Services Company recommended by Jon, At the moment we have seen some rises in our pot however, as we are in the middle of Brexit and the stock market is in turmoil our investment has basically not made us a killing but neither has it lost us lots of money. We live in hope that when this mess is over we can look forward to more positive outcomes.

What could they have done better?

Having read up about the company Jon recommended to us we were satisfied that we had made the right decision on our investment. Today we stand by that and would still trust Jon to give us honest and unbias advice.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had decided to take early retirement from full time employment and sought advice about my pension arrangements.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon discussed the options to access my pensions and provided various scenarios to support my decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I intend to start drawing a pension in the next tax year, based upon the options provided by Jon.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I wanted to plan forward for my retirement and also invest some money that was left to me.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He asked me to review all my finances and then asked me to do a questionnaire which outlined my attitude to risk and investments. He thoroughly reviewed all our finances and planned forward for me at each meeting.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes definitely I feel more secure going into retirement now, know what money I have and how my investments are growing. I also know that Jon is available should I require clarification or further advice in the future.

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything that Jon could have done differently.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My retirement and the impending retirement of my wife.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Helped us tosee a way in which we could meet our life goals from our limited budget.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet because Brexit is making me review and reconsider the plans we discussed with Jon.

What could they have done better?

I have none at this point.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Approaching retirement. Wanted advice re pensions, savings and investments.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon Elkins has been my financial advisor for ten years. During that time I have seen the value of my portfolio increase significantly. Jon is sincere, very knowledgeable of the subject, approachable and patient, answering every question or researching the answer if he does not know immediately. He gives excellent advice highlighting negatives as well as positives. I appreciative regular reviews and information regarding the financial market. I highly recommend him as a financial advisor.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was about 10 years or so from retiring and wanted to get my finances in order

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He classified all my assets and gave suggestions as to where to invest and which pensions to buy. He was also always on the end of the phone or email when I needed further advice when circumstances changed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. I am now retired.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Jon worked for Affinity in those days (2006) and they were particularly helpful to schoolteachers nearing retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He was brilliant in his advice and so we stuck with him.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have been very pleased indeed with his help and advice.

What could they have done better?

Hard to think of anything.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

As I reach the age of 60, I wanted to ensure that my savings/current pension arrangements were guaranteed to provide me with a decent income when I retired.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

I first met Jon Elkins in 2004 when he gave me some financial advice and helped to set up the annual purchase of past added years in the Teachers’ Pension Scheme.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very pleased with the work that Jon Elkins has done for me so far, and look forward to retiring in 6 years time, secure in the knowledge that I will be able to live reasonably comfortably.

What could they have done better?

I am delighted with the service that Jon Elkins has provided for me. He is a very approachable personality, and if I wanted something done better, then I know that I could simply ask him to do this.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I’m about to receive my state pension and wanted some advice re taking/deferring and the effect on my tax status.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He responded promptly and gave me a clear direction to follow.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I have.

What could they have done better?

Jon is outstanding and has been a great help over many years.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I had some funds to invest and had not idea what to do with them.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Asked me what my objectives were - laid out the various possibilities - then dealt with it all for me. He also took over a large bundle of totally incomprehensible pensions, made sense of them for me and then advised me on the most advantageous way to go forward with them.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Certainly so far.

What could they have done better?

Not a lot, really - I have been really happy with his services.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My father always had a financial adviser and I followed suit. Our previous adviser did not give us the necessary advice. Being a teacher I first met Jon Elkins in that role when asking about retirement and pensions. His advice was excellent, so when he set up his own company we stayed with him and continue to receive the best possible advice.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Please see above.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes; we continue to do so.

What could they have done better?

To be honest I cannot fault Jon Elkins in any way.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

When my financial circumstances changed, I consulted Jon to run an overview, and help me plan for the future.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He looked at my financial picture and drew up various forecasts under different situations. It really helped to have this overview, and was reassuring.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I was seeking reassurance and confirmation that I was handling my finances sensibly. Jon provided this reassurance, and I would happily return to him if I wanted to make any further investments or look at inheritance planning. What is exceptional about Jon is that although I simply consulted him for the review, he has kindly continued to answer an occasional question about, for example, my pension. Jon is very friendly and professional.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Pension advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement is

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

By advising me what the best options available were for someone with my portfolio

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have only just started the investment so too early to say at this stage

What could they have done better?

Nothing really

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I first contacted Jon in the later stages of my career when I needed help with investment for retirement.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon put together an investment plan and linked me up with a reliable investment broker.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I've been more than happy with the service he provides.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To help with investment advice

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Gave excellent investment advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I am extremely happy with the service

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was approaching retirement from the teaching profession and wanted to use someone I could trust to advise me on future financial planning.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

John helped me with the administration of my teacher's pension, showed me all the available options, did a comparison of lump sum vs monthly payments for me, helped me to consider my family circumstances with regard to future financial planning and gave me some useful tax and inheritance advice. He also helped me to deal with setting up a drawdown account to make the most of a separate pension I had.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have felt confident about the advice I have been given and the transition from work to retirement has been seamless with regard to my teaching pension. I have certainly benefitted from my drawdown pension too and thus far this account has done relatively well. I have paid tax at the best rate for me thanks to John's advice.

What could they have done better?

I really have nothing to add here. John has always been fast to respond to my questions and to deal with my paperwork. This is something I have valued enormously along with his succinct and easily understood explanations of my current financial and tax position.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Age and change of circumstances

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Trusted, sound advice. Easy to understand and has a good insight into both pension and financial planning plus the demands of our professions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

New into the work place - needed advice on how to save money and where!

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Set me up with a stocks and shares ISA - very helpful!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Currently in the positive values in the first few months! - Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing - very quick to respond and looking forward to going into the future with his sound advice.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Unwilling to meet

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking for advice on financial planning including retirement & savings.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Offered informal, impartial advice on our financial position and provided pointers on how we could put ourselves in the best position moving forwards.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - John's advice has proved very helpful.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I sold some property and needed to invest the funds.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He discussed my requirements in terms of whether I needed income, capital growth - wanted to go for high risk, great returns or a more secure investment, how much input I wanted to have in the management of my money etc - and then advised accordingly. He also did a brilliant job of sorting out and advising me on various pension plans I had had for decades and no idea how to deal with!.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Certainly, so far!.

What could they have done better?

Hard to think of what else he could actually have offered in terms of help and advice. Since we started working together he has been available whenever called on and I have had a helpful response to emails with hours, if not minutes!

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed advice on what to do with a large sum of inheritance.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon was recommended by a professional friend. From our first meeting he inspired my confidence in his obvious wealth of knowledge of the financial industry. He asked a lot of questions about my circumstances - I'm a carer - and what I wanted the money to do. Approaching retirement age I needed a pension, but also wanted to invest. The "risk test" was illuminating - apparently I'm a high risk taker - but Jon adjusted me to moderate to err on the side of caution. Not long after our first meeting we met again to go through his proposals. These were explained in a language I understood, plain English, and they fulfilled all my needs for the longer term. Jon also arranged to move a pension that I already had and amalgamate with the new one.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am delighted with the plans that Jon has put in place for me and even more so when I see them continue to grow.

What could they have done better?

Jon is an excellent Adviser, he listens and interprets your "wants" into sound financial advice. For me, he couldn't have done better.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I need to move my pensions after a divorce.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He arranged to move my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Jon did everything I needed him to

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My first pension fund had matured and I needed to decide what action to take.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon provided all the information requested and required. He explained what was necessary and desirable, after accurately assessing my individual circumstances. He laid out all options, indicating what would be best for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am satisfied that the action taken represented the best course for me and, taking on board my interests, location and preferences, Jon handled the arrangements efficiently and without delay. I am happy with how things have turned out and there is no question that I made a good decision, based on the options available.

What could they have done better?

It would simply have been helpful to know that there is no alternative to using an IFA to assist with making pension arrangements of this nature.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My wife and I are approaching retirement age and we wanted some expert advice on how we should plan for it.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon is a delightful chap who has a wealth of experience in this field. He gave us excellent advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, Jon answered all of our questions in a very clear and reassuring way.

What could they have done better?

Jon was excellent in all respects, he is a very professional, knowledgeable adviser.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I wanted advice, as I was retiring to be a long-term carer.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon was sympathetic and practical, assessing needs quickly and without having to ask questions more than once. I've felt reassured and safe under his guidance and after more than 10 years of using his services, I've never had a moment's concern. His advice has been effective.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so.

What could they have done better?

In the early days I seem to remember we discussed the need for more regular meetings, which now happen.

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Retirement planning.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Assisting me over a period of years to ensure my plans to retire early were achieveable. Jon Elkins proved to be an excellent sounding board for all my queries and anxieties. His calm presence and sound knowledge of a changing market helped me immensely.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Totally, and with sensible investing, my 'moderately conservative' portfolio has surpassed expectations. My teachers' pension has been activated and I am pleased and satisfied with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

He failed to give me reason to write anything constructive in this box.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Met Jon for the first time at the preliminary meeting he came over as very knowledgeable listened to what we said and commented as we went through details. He asked what we wanted from our pension pots, I explained our objectives including limiting our tax liabilities. He gave an over view of what could be possible and we went away to decide what to do. With Jon’s calm approach and the way he explained things making it clear and easy to understand we almost decided to instruct him to act for us straight away. Jon came back with his proposals which fitted our needs and perhaps exceeded our expectations after a few questions we agreed to accept proposals. One of the insurance companies dragged their feet which slowed things down but the result was very good. All through this Jon was quick in answering any questions and his comments and answers were clear and straight forward. Overall Jon took us through this without any stress and we are pleased with the result. We have already recommended him to a friend who has instructed him

What could they have done better?

For us he could not have done any better

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Jon's expertise in the area of Teacher Pensions as been invaluable in negotiating a fantastic retirement package on my behalf. I soon realised that his knowledge of the TP system was second to none and the way that he handled negotiations and communications both with the school and myself was outstanding. His fees were extremely fair considering the work that he did and the outcome achieved. I also really appreciate the fact that he is keen to stay in touch following the conclusion of his work and is always quick to respond to my emails. Jon was recommended to me by a friend and colleague and I would certainly wholeheartedly recommend him myself.

What could they have done better?

No suggestions to make.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Jon was very clear about the advise he will provide. I gave him the rating of 4 only because I have only just finished talking to all the advisers and therefore have not yet decided which one I am going to go with.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Jon

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Replies promptly to e mails Advice is clear to understand Nothing seems too much trouble so one feels able to ask all types of questions, no matter how simple

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

He clearly understood his brief for me and prepared a thorough and exhaustive report by email for me to digest and to follow up if necessary. He was quick and efficient in answering my additional questions afterwards, questions I asked because I had only just thought of them, not questions that he had failed to answer in the first place.

What could they have done better?

Everything was done by emails going back and forth. I missed a face-to-face meeting but realise that this is no-one's fault - John and I live and work in different areas of the country so it would not have been feasible. And I have only thought of this as I write this review. For all I know, if I had asked for one at the time John might have said yes.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Being approachable and helping to make complex pictures clear. Responding quickly to sometimes quite random enquiries. Instilling confidence. Being trustworthy. Saving me time and effort. Being the bridge between me and the world in which my money is stored.

What could they have done better?

Neither I nor my husband, who was in on all our discussions, can think of anything we think he missed or that we would criticise. It is still quite early days for us, but we have been completely satisfied with the service and advice Jon has provided.

How has Jon Elkins helped you?

Explains the options in layman's terms laying out the risks and rewards without pressuring you to overreach yourself in terms of commitment.

What could they have done better?

Maybe produce a six monthly newsletter outlining the market situation regarding new products or times to take advantage of new products.