Sian MacInnes

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

I was needing advice on pensions

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian gave me clear and helpful 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?

I wanted advice about income from my pensions and how to go about setting it up.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian went through all the options available to me and explained them thoroughly and in an easily understandable way, I felt I could make an informed decision as a result. She always replied to any further enquiries promptly for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, my pension income was set up quickly and easily, it was an easy process with her help.

What could they have done better?

I can't really think of anything.

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

My wife’s Job change and approaching retirement accompanied by my own complex health conditions and accompanying complex finances.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She had aggregated and explained our assets, explained them all to us, and our options running up to, including and after retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are just putting It all into action now. Seeing the benefits in a few weeks

What could they have done better?

Nothing we can identify, we have been completely satisfied.

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

Financial planning in preparation for retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Having taken time to understand our circumstances and aspirations, Sian patiently provided an explanation of various options using plain language. Sian has helped us to understand additional relevant considerations and the implications and opportunities of various options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

This is a work in progress, but we are progressing with a greater understanding and confidence.

What could they have done better?

I don't think Sian could have done anything better

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

We were aware that we do not manage our money well and were approaching a time of change as we reached 60. Then my job was made redundant and we needed to know what our options were and what we could afford.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has helped with a calm head, clear communications, non-scary language, understanding of our situation and then advice and execution in an efficient way. She has given us hope that we do not need to be afraid of financial change and shown us how to make good use of the money we have. Meetings with her are positive and constructive.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are at the early stages, but looks good so far.

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

My husband was already retired and I wanted to understand if it would be sensible for me to retire early and take a reduced pension and lump-sum, or if it would be better to continue working until my original work-place pension came into effect. We also had some savings and inheritance capital that we needed advice on how best to invest.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian looked at our overall situation, our attitudes to risk, (my husband and I differ!) and what we wanted to achieve. She suggested various options, explained the pros and cons, and ensured that we fully understood our choices. She has set up separate ISAs for us both and has helped manage our savings in the most tax-efficient way. Sian is very easy to talk to and always ensures that she understands what is important to us. We now meet once a year, all meetings are followed up in writing with clearly laid-out options, including the risks and benefits - and somehow Sian manages to make it all sound interesting!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, definitely so far. I am now happily retired and our savings, including the ISAs, are working really well for us.

What could they have done better?

Nothing! Sian is warm and engaging and very knowledgeable. She tailors everything according to our individual situation and attitudes to risk, and we continue to value her expertise and guidance.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian is really fabulous - warm and understanding, her advice was invaluable. Highly recommend.

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

We were confused about our pension and savings position and needed the professional skills and knowledge to help clarify the whole situation.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian was able to go through our whole financial situation and was able to help us understand what we had and how to make the most of our moneys. She regularly meets us to review our situation and our investments to ensure our money is working hard for us in our situation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes absolutely. We are clear on what pension we have, how much they are worth, how to best invest our income, make the most of our savings and understand our tax position. I am now retired and my wife is about to retire, so this is so important.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

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

Helping my parents with their financial planning

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian gave a careful and considered overview of my parents' financial situation, and clearly explained their choices and any implications for the future. She made sure that we understood everything and provided sensible options based on their situation. Sian is a very easy person to talk to. She listened well, and we all felt very comfortable talking through some potentially difficult issues.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes (though currently only one year in, so hard to judge investments)

What could they have done better?

Nothing!

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

Redundancy , how to manage pensions and possible retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Siân really questioned what we were hoping to gain from the service and fully explained how our finances could look in the future , she gave us great advice on how to manage my redundancy payment and pensions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes lots of sound advice given with illustrated options to explore

What could they have done better?

I can’t think of any improvement needed for this service it exceeded our requirements

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

We started speaking to Sian as we were approaching pension age. She was encouraging and straightforward, and set out very clearly what we would need to think about and when. This was before she was formally managing our pension funds.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has taken over various pensions as it has become appropriate, and has found places to invest them which have produced good rates of return. She has also been happy to leave some pensions where they were. This has meant less commission for her, but this shows that Sian has her client's best interests at heart. Sian is very knowledgeable about the pensions market and is always to answer our questions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We have a productive face to face meeting with her once a year, and we are happy that our pensions are in good hands.

What could they have done better?

Everything has been done very well.

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

I have been a client for over five years and retirement planning with the help of an expert was essential.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has amalgamated a portfolio of pensions into a single pension with Royal London that has performed very well.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very happy with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

From day one Sian has been extremely clear and helpful and I can’t think of anything that could have been done better.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Excellent introductory meeting regarding options for retirement implementation

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian made me feel feel very as easy.

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

My parents gave me some saving for my 21st birthday which I wanted to invest. Sian has helped me with that investment ever since and I have been using her for the last five years.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She has given me good advice throughout the last five years which has seen my portfolio continue to grow. Even during covid I was very confident with my investments thanks to Sian.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - My portfolio has seen massive growth with Sian managing it.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Rang up next day very helpful and due to meet in person soon

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian is a very different FA to other FA's I have encountered. My impression is that she really cares about the individual, she listens and then offers sound advice irrespective of whether she gets the business or not. Overall, I think that she is an exceptional FA and have no hesitation in recommending her to anyone.

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

I needed to transfer two out of date pension pots into one pension that was invested ethically

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian advised me on the best pension provider for my ethical requirements, and handled all the paperwork for the transfer. She also advised me on the relative merits and disadvantages of draw-down and annuity.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now have a modern pension invested ethically, all in one place. The pension has performed exceptionally well in the 12 months since I set it up so I have seen the fund grow. I feel secure, knowing I can draw down cash from the pension at any stage, should I need it, and that when I choose to stop work, it is there.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Sian was always available for questions, she used plain language to explain things to me, she was efficient and well organised. She was sympathetic to my needs and easy to talk to. She helped me see my situation clearly, both present and future, and gave me good advice.

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

I needed independent advice about me collection of small pensions in order to plan for my retirement in the next 5years

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian offered me a free consultation and in the time available she provided some sound advice that was easy for me to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet but I have a clearer idea of what I need to do

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

I needed help to understand work pension and lump sum statement to help me decide on early retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian asked the right questions about family, plans etc. to help me consider what I financially need should I decide to retire.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Sian is professional, friendly, knowledgeable and approachable.

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

Financial advice required following sale of house & early retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian explained my options in a clear, logical manner. She is friendly and approachable, I feel comfortable that I can ask her any questions. She followed up our conversation with comprehensive meeting notes which reflect our discussions providing me with a record to refer back to.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

On time and very informative. Explained everything clearly. Highly recommendable. Will definitely recommend Sian to friends and family

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

I had a good experience when meeting with Sian for the first time.

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

Coming up for retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Very sensible and straightforward advice that matched my chosen risk levels.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, and more

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian provided me with clear and honest advice. I would recommend her for her knowledge and kindness, and will definitely use her services again if needed in future.

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

Prefer not to say

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

with help for long-term planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

not yet. The markets have not been kind in recent years

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

I was coming up to retirement age, and I inherited money from my parents. I had never sought financial advice before but felt I needed to understand better what my best options were.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian MacInnes has been brilliant at demystifying the rules, regulations and financial markets for me. She provided options and advice about my pension and about ethical and balanced investments. I do not consider myself very financially literate but I feel I have benefited significantly from Sian MacInnes as my financial adviser.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have received very sound advice and positive outcomes. Our annual meetings are always informative and enjoyable and I trust Sian MacInnes's judgements and advice.

What could they have done better?

N/A

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

Retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She has taken the worry out of financial planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothibg

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

Pensions Management

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has taken a lot of time to get to know us, our circumstances, our needs and preferences. Consequently her advice and help has been appropriate and insightful. Sian has been diligent and proactive in maintaining contact with us and amending her advice as both the markets and our situations have changed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - we have been pleased with the outcomes so far.

What could they have done better?

We can’t think of anything.

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

I have used a financial adviser all my adult life. I have no expertise in financial matters and need specialist help.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She has given me confidence in her knowledge, asked for my financial aims and priorities and given helpful, positive advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The strategy agreed on is working well and achieving its aims.

What could they have done better?

I am not qualified to judge this, but am satisfied with the advice given and performance of my investments.

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

My wife and I felt we needed professional to advise on our portfolio

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Yes very much so, especially in the area of IHT

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Still only at an early stage

What could they have done better?

Don't feel anything could be done better, extremely happy with advise

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

My husband needed an advisor about his works pension and Sian gave us the advice he needed. Before he passed away he asked her to carry on looking after his pension and savings.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She helped me change my pension provider and reinvested my ISA for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With the climate as it is, not much has changed but am hopeful that things might improve a little in the following year.

What could they have done better?

I am happy with things as they are at the present.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was fantastic and so knowledgeable! I am a complete novice when it comes to finances and Sian took her time to explain everything to me! I felt so much better and confident after the consultation!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Knowledgable and understood my requirement. Sian was very approachable and obviously had the experienced in financial services to give me confidence in her advice.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian came across as very professional and provided to the point advice enabling me to move forward with my financial planning. I have had numerous interactions with financial advisors over the years and this was by far my best experience.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

I have only had brief contact, a further meeting is being set up.My initial contact is posative & felt very professional

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

I received a lump sum of money 3 years ago and needed help to protect it and place it in the right savings.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

From our first meeting Sian has been really amazing we had a meeting , discussed what the money needed to be used for and long term goals,Sian came back with various suggestions which we actioned.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have not been dissappointed with the outcome of my investments.

What could they have done better?

I do not think anything could have been done, we live at the moment in uncertain times and you have to accept there is always a risk investing money

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

I looked for a 'new' advisor because the company that set up a SIPP for me changed hands and the service deteriorated. I liked Sian's approach ie no minimum level of investment - ordinary people need advice as well.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has acted professionally at all times. She has taken exceptional care to understand my goals and I feel that Sian really does want to achieve the very best outcomes for her clients.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Putting aside the downturn due to the war in Ukraine, yes.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian listened and advised on what for me is a difficult time. Professional and empathetic.

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

Divorce, which left me needing advice and guidance on the sums of money I was left with, both in terms of long- and short-term planning.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian is guiding me through what, to me at least, is both a mystery and a potential minefield. I have very little awareness of financial matters and found my circumstances quite emotionally gruelling. Sian has been constant, patient and supportive in leading me through the process to achieve the best outcome with my funds. She is always very quick to respond to any query and speaks in a language I can understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, more than, and I have managed to achieve a lifestyle I never dreamed would be possible, whilst feeling reassured about my financial situation going forward.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian clarified a number of things for me. Her explanations and ideas were clearly communicated and I felt very comfortable discussing my finances with her.

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

Potential retirement was fast approaching and I needed assurance that I would be able to retire before the state pension age and that we could maintain our standard of living for the long term and still provide for my wife in the event of my death.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has acted to consolidate various pensions into one while ensuring that the investment portfolios used match our cautious attitude to risk. She has helped setup various ISAs and investment accounts in order to draw income as tax efficiently as possible.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far so good! I am now coming to end of my first year of retirement and all of our initial goals have been reached and this despite the global pandemic and a Russian war doing their best to trash the pension and investment funds.

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

Purchase of new house, funds required for mortgage deposit and use of existing pension fund seemed appropriate

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has helped me by collating the detils of each scheme, and transferring one ex-employer scheme into the Royal London portfolio, thereby releasing cash for our deposit and creating a basis for longer-term review of funds perfromance and management

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

2022 was a difficult year, even for Royal London, but Sian has a common-sense approach to the market turbulence of late, and we can discuss details and the overall picture at length.

What could they have done better?

n/a

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

I met with Sian through my employer and have had a couple of subsequent exploratory conversations. Sian's advise has been totally impartial, some might argue to her own detriment. Sian thinks purely about her client, asks some great questions to initiate your thought process before making decisions that might have a long term impact. I would wholeheartedly recommend Sian financial advice.

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

Inheriting money and needing expertise on what to do with it!

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has offered really clear advice and explanation of available options. I have specific requirements (e.g. around ethical investment) which she clearly respects and has helped me to clarify and enact.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Non complaints whatsoever.

What could they have done better?

I can’t think of anything.

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

Financial advice following the death of my husband

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She explained clearly and concisely considerations and options. On our first meeting, I remember she used a a visual map to further enhance my understanding and this was a very useful reference point for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I feel she is protecting and looking out for my investments and evidences any changes she recommends for my portfolio.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really - I am very happy with the service Sian provides.

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

Due to health issues we were considering early retirement. We wanted advice on whether this was financially feasible or not.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Initially, she questioned us about what was important in our lives, what we needed and what we wanted. This formed the basis of all our financial decisions, and actually helped us to understand what was important, too. It gave us a clear idea of how much money we needed to pay all bills, and do the things we enjoyed and wanted to do. We then went through a timescale of income to see how much we would be getting each year up until we had both reached state pension age. We then looked at any shortfalls, and were advised on how we could accommodate these years. We have now both reached state pension age, but Sian meets with us once a year to review our finances, which we find useful and reassuring.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. We particularly like that the advice is offered within the context of our specific life and lifestyle, and therefore our decisions are also made within this context.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Very pleasant knowledgable and helpful

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

Following an illness which meant I would be unable to continue working, I sought help with long term financial planning and pension advice and especially to secure a way to provide income for my wife.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian suggested one of my final salary pensions could be transferred to provide an annual income and drawdown facility to start as soon as possible.This was also to provide my family with an income from my pension in the event of my death before or after full retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Sian found a suitable pension provider tailored to my circumstances. She has also provided excellent general advice on other savings and investments including the transfer of funds as necessary.The advice and help exceeded my expectations.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Promising

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

I just wanted to review my pension progress.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian was friendly, helpful and efficient. I trusted her advice and would recommend her highly.

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?

A lack of understanding on what options were available to us with regards, pensions, ISAs and inheritance planning.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has a wonderful ability of understanding us as individuals and as a married couple and as business partners. She is able to remain supportive to both our needs and to acknowledge that we may not always be on the same page as each other.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes our financial affairs have been dealt with professionally and we both feel very confident in the advice Sian has given.

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

Lack of understanding of stock markets and inability to deal with ‘numbers.’ But realise that investments need to work for your circumstances.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Explained in layman’s terms what my investments have meant and how they could better my circumstances both present and future. Also taken the burden of doing this away from me which is a blessing.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not sure at present as a) it’s early days and b) the current financial state of the world is an unknown.

What could they have done better?

I doubt it

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

good

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian is a very approachable lady, she is also professional and has a caring nature.

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

Retirement planning

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian provided me with expert advice in a very patient and professional manner, ensuring that I understood the different options available to me, as well as making sure the choices I made were optimal for my circumstances

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Have not withdrawn from pension yet

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

Advice to manage our finances during retirement to optimum effect.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian provides clear advice based on her thorough understanding of our circumstances and excellent financial awareness.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are more than satisfied in this respect.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Clear concise and covered useful material new to me

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

I received a lump sum payment.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has helped me invest my money wisely and keeps me updated on how it is doing.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome of my investments was better than I hoped for.

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

My private pension was being managed by a company who barely made contact with me. My investment wasn't giving a good return and I felt that my portfolio wasn't being looked after property. Fees were high, the return small and I wasn't aware of where my money was being invested.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Firstly Sian is personable and friendly. From the outset she put me at ease being transparent about services Philip James could offer and also their fees. Sian understood my requirements, my current position and my long term goal. Philip James are members of the Ethical Investment and UK Sustainable Investment and Finance Association, which means I can invest responsibly without sacrificing the best financial returns.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definitely! More than expected to be honest. I was very pleased at the most recent annual review to see how my investment is growing.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian responded very quickly to my queries and was clear and concise in our first online meeting. I am intending to follow up on our positive first session.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Clear advice given with compassion. She was able to help me see the logic of what I wanted to achieve, and I haven't needed her services in fact so the free session was exactly that. I got free impartial advice from an expert with no pressure to use her service again. But I absolutely would - I thoroughly recommend her.

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

My existing pension plan was maturing with no further options offered, so I needed to find a way of re-investing the funds to provide an annuity.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She investigated suitable alternatives to maximise the annuity, and worked efficiently during a difficult and extended period covering COVID restrictions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the result exceeded my expectations.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Initial conversations have been very good and I feel Sian understands my situation and the best route forward.

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

To discuss current savings and pension performance, and whether changes in either plans were appropriate.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian offered understandable information on the current performance and offered appropriate recommendations, taking into account my personal attitude to risk, for any changes that should improve the outcome. Her face-to-face and written contacts are accessible, and she explains any jargon clearly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been very happy with the growth that both savings and pension has seen since taking up Sian's recommendations.

What could they have done better?

I can not think of anything

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

My conversation with Sian was extremely helpful: she immediately understood my financial goals and questions, and had great advice. She really helped me zoom in on the best course of action. She was friendly, clear, and completely impartial. I couldn't recommend her more.

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

My previous advisor died following a road traffic accident.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Determined my needs, priorities and attitude to risk and gave me excellent advice on appropriate investments for my needs. Very friendly and approachable and gives clear, honest professional advice. Provides continuing advice and support.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am seeing a very good outcome.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - I trust the advice I have been given and I am very happy to have Sian looking after my financial affairs.

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

We have consulted with Sian for over five years following our retirement and need for financial advice on pensions and savings.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian has managed our investments on our behalf.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes our investments have seen growth in line with our attitude to risk.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, Sian is attentive to our needs and listens and responds superbly.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was very personable and very quickly got to the heart of my enquiry, absorbing the detail in quick time.

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

Continuing to monitor my portfolio

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She understands out needs, our situation and has advised accordingly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, continued good results even with our defensive investment strategy.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

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

Recently retired, so looking how best to use AVC

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Provided very clear, professional and honest advice, in a timely manner. Also advice on current inheritance tax rules. Really impressed that Sian did not recommend a strategy that would have generated more commission for her, but would not have been in our best financial interests.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - tax free sum and money in pension fund for future.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Very helpful

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

Retirement with 2 pensions, plus cash from an inheritance at the same time.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian gave me the advice I was looking for with a risk based on my requirements for the future. The advice seemed very fair and honest and was based on 3 different savings/investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Good growth with medium/low risk.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I am aware of.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was fantastic. I was very concerned that I would not have the correct pension amount for when I retired. I was quite nervous as I approached our meeting as I wasn't sure what to expect, but, I needn't have worried. Sian was open, honest, and friendly and gave me the spur I needed to sort out my documentation and find all the relevant paperwork and figures so that she could give me the correct advice. The advice she provided was clear and easy to understand. Sian was honest about whether I needed her help or whether I could carry out some actions on my own and made me realise that I could handle my pension planning. I will have no hesitation in contacting her again for advice and employing her services should I need to do so at a later date.

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

Just been awarded a proportion of my ex’s pension in divorce and didn’t understand the pension actuary report or what to do with the pension.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian took the time out to call me while she was on her holiday at an un-socialable time which was convenient to me as a favour. She had already taken the time to pre-read my information so I wasn’t having to go over things. She took the time to explain and simplify my options and gave me sound advice as to how to best to place the part pension I had been awarded. I went from having no real idea what a pension was to having a reasonable understanding in hardly any time. She really simplified things well without making me feel stupid. Mostly though she gave me the advice necessary to make an educated decision as to what I needed to do.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I would have had no idea what to do with the pension pot I was being awarded if Sian hadn’t taken the time to advise me and this would have caused issues with the court sealing the final financial order.

What could they have done better?

Literally nothing... she was amazing! Thank you so much!

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

Thinking a decade or so away from retirement we were wanting to plan well for the future.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Listened to us brilliantly. Helped us look through everything together and pull together a number of helpful options to begin to action from an more informed place.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we are much more confident to make our decisions and plan better now.

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

Pension

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Helped me see through the red mist of pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so

What could they have done better?

Personally for me, she is very very helpful

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was very helpful and if i need a FA i will certainly contact her. Thank you Sian

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

Advice initially sought to plan for retirement.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian was very thorough in assessing our needs and attitudes towards risk, so that she was well placed to tailor her advice to our specific needs. She was very approachable in manner, and clear in her explanations, and we felt supported but not pushed into making decisions that were right for us. Sian has continued to review our needs and provide ongoing advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have been more than satisfied with the outcome of our investments.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

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

I originally met with Sian to help me with finances relating to Long Term Care and related finances in 2015. Since then Sian has helped me to sort out my husband's pension schemes and is now helping me with my own pensions and Investment ISA's

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian helped me by giving me excellent advice on the various options that I have with regards to my pensions, investments and savings. Sian also thinks about all the implications of each of my pensions, investments and savings to make sure that they are tax effective and the best way to get the most from my finances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I am seeing a good outcome, I guess it is early days but I feel that over the next few years Sian will help me in the final preparations for my retirement

What could they have done better?

Nothing I am very happy to be working with Sian

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

Retirement

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Determined our needs and priorities. Found appropriate investments and pension provider. Dealt with all formalities. Provides continuing advice and support.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

We are fully satisfied with the service Sian provides.

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

I had a small some of money to look after in advance of paying down a mortgage when the fixed rate was over

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

She advised me the safest place to put it and also suggested I didn't need her services at this time for something like this so I'm happy with the honesty.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was incredibly friendly and knowledgable. Everything was explained clearly and honestly both prior to and in the meeting we had.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

I am always quite cautious, when it comes to appointments to discuss financial matters but things couldn't have gone better. Sian got in touch with me straight away and my appointment was booked for a couple of days time. When talking to Sian I was immediately at ease and after discussing several ideas I was happily able to decide a way forward knowing that I could contact Sian again if I needed anything further.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

She delivered the information I requested very clearly and precisely.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Sian was able to confirm the things I can and can't do regarding a pension.

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

Pension transfer

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian was great, and has put my mind at rest, after a bad experience with a different advisor.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Now, to see, my pension grow

What could they have done better?

It’s a great start with Sian, I have no issues, it is important that, communication is good.

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

After being made redundant at the start of the pandemic, I had to rationalise my scattered pensions and other monies for the future

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

I was given clear and uncomplicated advice about possible directions I could go in

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so. Sian did most of the heavy lifting by providing all documents and forms that were required after we had made our decisions

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

Previous adviser died in a road traffic accident

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Review of my circumstances and recommendations for appropriate action

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing - I trust the advice I have been given

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

A very helpful conversation which helped me to understand my choices. I would encourage people to contact Vouchedfor for financial advise. When I need help I will be calling.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Very clear explanation of support available and how the process can work going forward, and fees were discussed to ensure full understanding on my part. Overall, a very positive session!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Although I had been planning to Contact Sian, when I had a chance to first contact her, it was at time of Financial uncertainty. It was a great benefit to have some with some clarity of vision to give financial reassurance at an uncertain time.

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

I wanted advice on inheritance tax planning

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian suggested a two year AIM plan

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I am very satisfied with Sian, she has done all that was required.

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

I was considering my options to change my working hours as I approach retirement, and needed help with a financial overview.

How has Sian MacInnes helped you?

Sian spoke in plain language, and sketched out a plan that I can understand and can go back to. She asked clear direct questions and only had to ask once. She listened really well, and was encouraging about the choices that I have.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - I now know what more I need to find out and what I can do.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sian

Very polite, friendly, and honest.