Samantha Secomb

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

I was intending to retire and wanted advice and options on ways to invest and manage a lump sum payment.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam advise me on a variety of opportunities and explained the pros and cons of each

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, my plans have changed over the 5 years and Sam has advised me of the best ways of achieving my outcomes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing in my opinion.

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

Advice on current pension with view to moving to new provider to improve performance and save on fees.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Saved me money and moved pension to new provider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I was very happy with the advice and service.

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

I needed some financial advice about my future as I wasn’t sure where it was best to invest

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam helped me by clearly defining the opportunities I had and gave great advice about pension planning too!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I’m clearer on my future going forwards

What could they have done better?

Nothing! Great advice was given

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

My retirement and pension investment.My security in investment. Risk management and investment in stock exchange.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Original advice and setting up a very individual risk assessment and ongoing supportive advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes Samantha gives me confidence to get the best results in an age where risk of being scammed or ill advised is high.My returns on investment have been really satisfying.Also feeling safe in Samantha's hands.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything at this time.

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

I had some money to invest

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Yes she was very knowledgeable

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and no. The market is fluctuating but nothing has happened that I wasn’t expecting. Samantha had warned me of everything.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

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

Going self employed - and reaching a certain age, I needed to get some advice on how to invest for my future.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Advice on pensions, investments and thinking about what I want in the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Everything was clearly explained and I felt supported and understood.

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

Our savings were scattered and we wanted to pull everything together and reassess

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam explained everything clearly as to how we could best organise investments and pensions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely.

What could they have done better?

I don't think they could. I am kept informed and my investments and pensions are regularly reviewed

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

I went freelance two years ago and needed advice on my financial situation, specifically buying property in the next few years and preparing for retirement.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam has overhauled my financials and given me great peace of mind. She and the team are very approachable, happy to explain things over and over again in simple terms, and I feel very reassured about my future financial position.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My objectives were to get my savings in the right investments and get advice on how to plan for retirement and buying property. I have a plan I am working towards and a team I can call on for advice whenever I need it so, yes, the outcome I was hoping for has been achieved.

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

I approached Samantha as my circumstances had changed and in retiring I was looking to learn about and set up financial arrangements to be be assured of my financial future.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Absolutely. Samantha and her team have given clear and simplified advice, drawn on their knowledge and experience in the sector to give wide spanning guidance, explained the details and terminology and given very important options when faced with different scenarios for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am much more aware of my financial situation and feel more capable of engaging with investments and pensions etc.

What could they have done better?

Nothing to add

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

To gain financial confidence

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

year 1 - gain confidence on the 'basics' - pensions, ISAs, investing

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In year 1 yes, less so in year 2 (as discussed)

What could they have done better?

- Regular touchpoints - Onboarding of parmenion & touchpoints to understand

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

I had recently got divorced and had started a new business. Although my work was going well, I had very little idea of what to do to make astute financial plans. Anything to do with money actually made me feel panicked so I just worked and tried to forget about it! But with no pension, I really needed help to get financially organised and on track.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam has been wonderful and her assistants, Maria and Sasha. They have been patient, understanding, consistent and responsive and I have always felt in good hands and walked carefully through various options. I'm really glad to have taken the step to reach out to Sam, as otherwise, I think I would still be frozen in indecision!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is still early days, Ive only just begun this journey towards financial stability, but I have noticed my mindset towards money has already changed for the better, and this is quite miraculous considering Im 60 years old!

What could they have done better?

Not sure I can think of anything.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Sam seems really knowledgeable and I really enjoyed our first encounter. Her description of the financial advice product was clear and thorough.

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

feeling worried about pensions

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

By stripping away confusion and anxiety about investing

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

too early to tell

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

I retired early from nursing and needed to make sure my money would last. I needed to work out what I could spend each year and still have enough.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

We made a financial plan and we check it regularly

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Oh yes. It is working

What could they have done better?

All is good

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

I was looking to get my affairs ready for retirement.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She has sorted out my pensions and planned for a secure retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing as very pleased with everything that has been done.

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

I looked for an advisor to help identify the best solutions for my savings

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam is a great financial planner with great experience and skills. She’s clear, friendly and easy to understand! Would recommend!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I understand more about my financial future now

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

I felt untethered financially and really needed some sound advice

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She has explained everything in VERY SIMPLE terms. She's fair, curious and candid. I reckon I must be the most shambolic client but Sam is incredibly patient and good humoured.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's early days but I feel a lot of relief that someone with knowledge and experience is helping me.

What could they have done better?

I do still find the portal and all the documents hard to navigate and compute.

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

Advise on savings investments

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam has recommended investments as well as financial planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

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

I needed help planning my retirement and maximising the value of my savings. I had no prior experience in investments and needed the help of a financial planner to consolidate my pension plans, invest and inheritance planning.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam and her team went through my current situation in great detail, listened to my concerns and proposed a clear plan of action which we have been working on implementing together for the last few months. Everything was clearly explained and the reports provided have been hugely helpful. Sam and my money mentor are available when I have questions about the proposed products and I have been kept informed about the status of advancement of each action point, such as consolidating my pensions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, it's taken time but it's time well spent. I've have not felt rushed and all decisions are mine, but Sam has been there to inform and advise as we've worked through things.

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

I needed specialist financial advice on planning astutely for the future and wanted advice to suit me, rather than be led by other members of my family with their own agenda and possibly limited knowledge.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam and the team take a whole person approach. They bring their own specialist knowledge to the party but they also coach me into thinking about what’s important to me, What risk am I comfortable with, what money do I need now and what do I need in 5, 10, 15 years time? And explaining things two or three times is fine!!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My finances are in much better shape and my knowledge has increased. I’m confident that the money is working better for me with appropriate taxation.

What could they have done better?

Very happy with experience, if I did want something different I feel I could ask.

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

Whilst I had set myself up with a personal person and a stocks and shares ISA, I wasn't sure that they were performing as well as they could be, or that they would give me what I needed over the next 5+ years.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

We did a full review of my finances and a projection of what things would look like over the years before turning 100. We then went through what this would be like with some adjustments to the structure of various funds and investments. I also have a better understanding of my risk profile and appetite, and how this links to various investment fund structures.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now have investments and a pension that are structured better, and fit my values and risk profile.

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

I felt I didn’t have a solid plan for the future and didn’t know what I was doing. I knew where I wanted to go, but not sure where to start or what to do.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Finding Sam and her knowledge has been a game changer. There’s no judgement, and she has guided me to some great decisions and also pointed out some negative spending behaviours. Seeing the future forecast and what is possible puts everything into perspective. She understands money from the female perspective and puts you in control of your finances and future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

That and more. I’ve also found Sam goes above and beyond to help you and looks at the whole aspect of your finances. I was always looking for some help and I’ve found that in abundance with Sam. I feel a lot more confident about my future financial stability!!

What could they have done better?

Not applicable!

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

A major change in my personal and financial circumstances

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Given me a longer term overview, timely advice and suggestions for my reflection.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's a long term game but in terms of helping my taske control of my fincances, consolidate my investments and plan for the future - yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing comes to mind at the moment.

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

I felt it was time to take control of my finances. I was looking for a female independent adviser who would understand the unique needs of women when planning for my future.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam has helped me understand and plan for a future I am now excited about whereas before I was just letting everything drift along with no plan in place.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I feel confident and comfortable with the decisions I've made. It was great to have someone holding my hand so to speak through this process

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

I found Samantha clear and concise and easy to talk to. She was very helpful and I liked the general approach of Women's Wealth to financial planning and the way their fee structure works. She gave me comfort that my finances would be in good hands moving forward and made the world of finance seem less intimidating!

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

She was very personable and patiently answered all my questions and added value.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Sam was very easy to talk to and the product she offers is not your average financial advice.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Speaking with Samantha was a breath of fresh air. She was open, straightforward, fun, and no-nonsense, so we got on well right from the start. The reason I went with a different IFA in the end, but only because the way Women's Wealth operates and the tools they use weren't best-suited to my situation. My only point of feedback is that I felt I got more practical and actionable advice on things like insurance and pensions from other advisors I spoke with, while Sam's approach was not to comment on those points unless I became a client and her team could look at my situation in detail. I understand that different IFAs do things differently, so I just wanted to point this out to help manage other people's expectations before booking a call. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated our chat, and I think Sam is doing a fantastic thing by empowering women financially.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

I had an introductory chat with Samantha and she was brilliant. We had an excellent chat about my financial situation and the service she offers and the only real reason I didn’t sign up this time is because I’ve decided to buy a property.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

She helped me to look again at my options. I feel more positive about my financial situation.

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

I needed a financial advisor in order to sort out a pension policy that stipulated that.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam responded promptly to my request for information and gave me clear guidance on what services she offered and the options I had. From then on the service was impeccable, prompt replies, well organised meetings and an excellent follow up service that held my hand through the paperwork and fact finding.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. My pensions are organised and I am well prepared for retirement.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

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

I needed to make some decisions about my pensions.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She did a full review of my financial circumstances and obtained further information where needed. We were then able to have a frank discussion and make informed decisions about my pensions. Sam and her team are knowledgeable, friendly and personable which makes such a huge difference.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samatha was clear about services and fees- looking forward to trying the product

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samantha explained clearly the pertinent points of our concerns about a withdrawal of pension funds. We would certainly use her again.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samantha was easy to talk to able to explain how she could help me by saving me on taxes alone. I like the idea of having a female perspective on my finances in this patriarchal world where the financial landscape has been dominated by male thinking. Samantha is very approachable and I look forward to bouncing around ideas about how best to invest in my later life and into my retirement.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samantha was great to speak to. She was very honest about my situation and extremely helpful from our brief chat. I really understood the service she was providing and the fee structure clearly.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samantha was bloody brilliant.....approachable, engaging, open, honest and professional. She has an excellent knowledge of the financial sector and explained everything in a clear, straightforward manner; I never felt awkward or embarrassed asking her basic questions and I would absolutely recommend her.

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

I had been thinking I needed to take control of my finances and didn't really know where to begin.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She explained thoroughly what we needed to do, she took an in-depth look at my spending/ saving. She really helped me see some bad habits in a very supportive way.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, and it is an ongoing relationship that I believe I will get more out of as time goes on. Trust is a very important thing when seeking advice for your finances and I have nothing but for Sam.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, everything was explained to me thoroughly and I felt Sam did a full 360 on my finances and the possibilities for the future.

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

I wished to retire slightly earlier than the normal retirement age and wanted to see if it was an affordable option.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam's shrewd pensions advice and sensitive guidance enabled me to retire with a sensible retirement plan and helped me look forward with confidence to the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am currently enjoying retirement thanks to the efforts of Sam and her team.

What could they have done better?

The service is exemplary.

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

Retirement planning

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sound advice in required area.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely

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

I was aware that I had very limited understanding of how to manage my money, and was looking for support that was tailored to women.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha has helped me to build my confidence in understanding financial opportunity, improving my risk appetite, and has helped me to get a strong view of my incomings and outgoings so that I'm making educated choices with my money. Samantha has also helped me with starting on the investment adventure, something I have always been too scared to do. I feel like I'm already financially "fitter".

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - I was hoping to find a trusted advisor to answer my questions, and work with me to build understanding and confidence around my finances. I'm looking forward to working with Samantha in the long term.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything. I feel comfortable working with Samantha and the team at WW, which is really important to me.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

She was prompt in replying to my initial request. We had a 15 minute conversation which was pertinent and useful

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samantha didn't contact me. Somebody called Chris did

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Useful first encounter with an IF A and provided food for thought

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

Samantha understood what I wanted and gave excellent advice which I have taken up. I hope to meet with her at some point in the near future to discuss other financial matters.

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

Receiving an inheritance

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha has continued to offer me sound advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

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

I came back to the UK and needed to use my capital to have a pension top-up

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam evaluated my needs and resources and took the necessary actions to help me get the best from capital

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - together we monitor my financial affairs to ensure the best possible outcome

What could they have done better?

This is very difficult. I think my case was not complicated (from my point of view) and I am completely happy with the way Sam deals with my affairs. I cannot think of anything that could have been done better and can thoroughly recommend Sam, my financial adviser.

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

Prudence dictated my need for a financial advisor, and to Pentin's [Financial Planners] at Canterbury, upon retirement some years ago.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Periodic reviews at Pentin's are thorough-going and highly valued. Sound advice, along with recommendations, where appropriate, is always communicated in clear and very re-assuring ways. Samantha Secomb's detailed understanding and appreciation of my finances is impressive. Her professionalism, which is efficient and very effective, is also nicely aligned to what is also very welcoming, from my timely required visits to Pentin's.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Pleasing results are on-going, and wholly in line with all personal, and prevailing circumstances in the markets.

What could they have done better?

Nothing to add to what is already gold-standard service from Pentin's.

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

Long term future financial planning

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam, has been invaluable all my financial decisions, and I would recommend her to anyone who has some tough financial decisions that need making, her clear judgement, and many years in the financial services, make her stand out from the crowd.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far Sam's guidence in my financial decisions has been spot on.

What could they have done better?

I can think of nothing that could have been done differently.

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

Inheritance from my husband's parents and financial planning for our children.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Inheritance planning and investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far so good, but investments are long-term.

What could they have done better?

Sam probably couldn't have done better. She has always done her research and is well prepared when she arrives for a meeting with us at home on a 6-monthly basis. Friendly, personal service. I contact her by email if I have any financial concerns or updates to our financial circumstances between meetings.

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

I had a considerable amount of money in my current account and then sold my company which increased my funds even more. I therefore needed to spread my money and make it work for me in the process

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha provided a very professional and friendly service in advising where to invest my money. She took into account my expenditure going forward and the level of risk I was prepared to take with my investments and the appropriate platforms for investment were selected

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes are obviously ongoing but the investments are moving in the right direction

What could they have done better?

Some of the investment reports are very detailed and not easy to follow so a summary sheet with investments and how much the value had increased would be helpful - this was duly provided by Samantha’s team

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

We needed advice on how to use our savings in a more 'profitable' way other than a Bank or Building Society.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Both my husband and I first were given a 'Risk Assessment' questionaire' to establish our individual investments. Samantha then went through them with us and discussed the best possible investment porfolio for each of us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we have, our investments have grown and we have them in ISA wrap. We have a home visit each year to discuss any issues or adjustments we may require or be suggested to us from Samantha. We can telephone and talk to her anytime throughout the year if we need to.

What could they have done better?

Not a thing. At yearly reviews everything is discussed individually with each of us. Household income, expenditure, fall back capitol for any emergency. Future long term plans we may be thinking about and of course our growing portfolio, do any changes need to be made.

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

Financial planning

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Explained options and advice for planning for inheritance and investments in a lay mans terms and was very helpful

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

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

Having retired I needed to seek advice on how invest and manage our savings. Also looking to secure the best possible inheritance for our family.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha talked us through how investments are managed looking at our appetite for risk. We were shown tools which track and monitor investment performance, tracked against expenses.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely, feel very confident that the plan we agreed on is delivering the returns expected

What could they have done better?

Having just completed pleated our first annual review I will be better prepared with the numbers I need to provide to feed into the plan. Advace knowledge of what would have assisted would have been useful.

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

Sold a property, wanted to review portfolio

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Reviewed our existing portfolio, risk strategy and assessed our future investments. Helped us plan our investment strategy for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very thorough and useful. Explained everything and answered all queries.

What could they have done better?

Explain the charges in the report, found it a little confusing at first but it was clarified subsequently by email and in meeting

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

When I first came to Sam I was at an age where I was considering my pension options.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Talked through my various options given the various pensions I had gathered over my working life. Patiently helped me see and understand the options available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Have felt confident enough to take early retirement because of the helpful advice and careful planning Sam has offered in recent years.

What could they have done better?

Service has been excellent throughout.

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

Investment and retirement planning advice for lump sum life insurance and pension payments following death of wife

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Provided detailed report and investment advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, so far.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

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

We were considering early retirement and down sizeing our home and wanted advise about our finances.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha looked at all of our finances and our expenditures and discussed our options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes she has given us the confidence to carry out our plans.

What could they have done better?

There is nothing Samantha could have done better, she answered all of our questions and explained anything we didn't understand.

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

Previous Financial adviser retired and we needed continued general financial advise

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She took over our existing account, reviewed it and gave good advise on updating it

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, a good return on our investments

What could they have done better?

Samantha has achieved everything that we asked for and keeps us up to date with any changes to our portfolio through productive meetings when needed

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

It was an entirely inappropriate referral. Samantha was excellent - but my need was for about cashing one small personal insurance policy. I am a pensioner, not a corporate business. I am very disappointed - I cannot fault Samantha and her assistant, who were very professional.

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

Receiving pension right notices from previous employers

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

By explaining the documents received and aiding me to a decision

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?

Retire early from nursing and needed to know how to organise my pension and savings for income that wouldn't run out

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Clear directions and showed me the options explaining the risks so I had choice about how to play it. We did mostly secure but with a separate pot that we invested more ambitiously

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes indeed and it all started over 20 years ago

What could they have done better?

Nothing. She's great

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

Needed help and advice on investments generally

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She reviews my existing arrangements and discusses fully and expertly any chnages needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so

What could they have done better?

Nothing. All is as I would like it

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

I wanted to assess whether I should cash in my final salary pensions and when I would be able to retire if doing so.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha took me through a thorough process to assess whether I should transfer my pensions, what investment products and acceptable risk levels we would need to sustain our lifestyle in retirement and how soon I could retire.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, her advice has been very good and the strategy put into place is sound. It is at very early stages (this is a 20 year plus plan). The market wobble in September/October has not helped the nerves, but I understand the strategy and that over the long term the expected gains are eminently achievable.

What could they have done better?

I can honestly say that there are no key areas where I think there would need to be improvement.

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

We are four years away from being able to retire and wanted assurance and advice that how we best make our pension and equity assets provide for us in retirement.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam undertook a thorough and comprehensive review of our finances and produced a detailed plan showing how we could make our assets work harder for us ahead of our planned retirement. Sam was diligent and patient and took time to ensure that we understood her recommendations and how they matched our risk appetite.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are still in the process of undertaking the actions that Sam recommended so it's too early to tell whether the outcome is what we hope for.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Sam was really very good, very helpful and very knowledgeable.

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

I'd had quite a wide portfolio of investments in single companies and funds, and also a number of small and medium pension funds. I was looking to consolidate the pensions and add some structure to my investments.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Sam did a full review of my investments and pensions, assessed my attitude to risk and made appropriate recommendations to structure better with a view to achieving growth towards retirement. Clear explanation meant I understood the plan, which we review annually together.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the investments and pensions have performed well, meaning that I'm better placed and on schedule to achieve my retirement goals.

What could they have done better?

Communication and advice has been first class, nothing could have been better

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

I sold a property and had some money to invest.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha was able to review my whole portfolio of investments and advise me on the best way to invest spare money, taking into account my future family needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes although as Samantha pointed out some of my investment was for the longer term.

What could they have done better?

Samantha was very busy so I had to wait for my appointment, however when we did meet she gave me as much time as I needed.

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

We found we had a lot of cash with poor return. So far we have only had an initial meeting with Samantha but we hope our review may help others seeking to take a first step towards professional investment advise.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

We saw Samantha through Vouchedfor where first meeting is free and gives both parties a chance to see what the other can offer. We found Samantha friendly, particularly easy to deal with, focused and organised. quick to get to grips with and understand our personal situation. She gave us her fair and measured opinion on our present financial investments and clearly outlined the options we had including one that would not benefit her. In particular she spent a lot of time ensuring that we understood the charge structure/ costs that would be involved if we decided to go ahead and gave a valuable cost/potential benefit exercise . Samantha is very professional and there was never any question of signing up there and then. Her advice was to take it away, sleep on it and decide in your own time.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

This is a review of our initial meeting and too early to speak of outcomes. The star ratings are our personal opinion based on that meeting.

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

Initially worked overseas and Pentins provided advice on investments and savings, since returning to the UK to work I needed advice on Personal and Company Pensions.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

After reviewing my change in circumstances Samantha provided a coherent strategy with regard to my current investments and personal pensions. In addition, Samantha provided guidance on the current regulations for Company Pensions and how to maximise my contributions. Overall Samantha explained each option available and her advice was helpful in determining which way to proceed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes with a better understanding of my objectives.

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

Reaching 60 and being faced with decisions about annuities.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She identified my aims for the future, then formulated a strategy based on pensions I held that enabled me to achieve them.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It would appear so - I have retired!.

What could they have done better?

I couldn’t answer that, I didn’t have the knowledge that would have resulted in the outcome I have now, and Samantha was patient and clear in explaining possibilities with the means at my disposal.

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

My husband was self employed and had to retire because of health issues. Samantha gave us pension, investment and savings advice. ( A task we had long been putting off) We had been going around in circles regarding our finances and had buried our heads.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha spent along time with us discussing our financial needs and requirements. Her advice was clear and straight forward. We felt completely comfortable to ask as many questions as necessary and she was happy to clarify anything we were unsure of. Even popping in from visiting another client to guides us through some paperwork. She very much held our hands through this process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have just begun this process but have every confidence we will see positive outcomes. Sam helped us to consolidate our investments and savings. Which will enables us to tack them more easily.

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

I had a certain amount of capital from the sale of my main home and felt the need of professional advice for investment etc as I could not afford to make a mistake with the money and needed a regular income to top-up my NI pension which is not at 100% of the national figure.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

I found Sam's contact details by Internet research and felt confident enough with that information to meet her and discuss my needs. At the first meeting my confidence in my choice was reinforced; I had found someone who understood my needs and my limitations and who was prepared to help me move forward.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very much so. I really could not ask for more from Sam and it is always a pleasure to meet her and discuss the progress of my investments.

What could they have done better?

In this case I really cannot think of any way of improving the service that Sam provides; if I could, I'd let you know.

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

Long term personal investment advice involving some complex planning.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Excellent personal service, tailored for my needs with a considered range of short and long term strategies - particularly around IHT. I feel Samantha understands me and my circumstances. It is very much a two-way process and as a client I feel fully involved. Everything is clearly explained and well executed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, and this is ongoing.

What could they have done better?

No, the service from Samantha and her team is excellent

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

I wish we had spoken with Samantha a few years ago as we would have made far better informed decisions. Very happy to have found someone I believe I can trust.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Samantha

I wish we had spoken with Samantha a few years ago as we would have made far better informed decisions. Very happy to have found someone I believe I can trust.

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

The market for pensions and annuities is very confusing and the pension companies themselves are not always helpful in providing the best deal nor an explanation of what you are buying.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha obviously knows the market well and gained a good understanding of what I required from it. On one of my pensions has provided me with a rather better annuity than appeared to be on offer. I was very pleased to leave negotiations in the hands of my adviser.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very satisfied with the outcome. The longer-term investment has yet to be tested.

What could they have done better?

I did chase-up payments (through my adviser) that had not appeared in my account; I wonder if a better check could have been kept on this.

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

being widowed changed my life circumstances and I had some difficult decisions to make about how best to move forward and towards retirement.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha was very clear communicating and personable. She listened and understood my needs and gave accessible advise in a very relational way that put me at my ease. She helped me to understand and gain an overview of my financial situation which has helped me to feel more secure and able to make choices for my future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes Samantha fulfilled the brief I asked of her and I would go back to her in the future.

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

We were re-writing our wills and needed to reevaluate our situation in relation to inheritance tax, etc.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

We chatted in depth with Sam. She exposed the options without any pressure, but also opened our minds to some simple realities which were obstructing our reasoning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In conclusion, the initial discussion was way beyond our expectations, and clarified that no further guidance would be necessary.

What could they have done better?

Sam was attentive to our dilemma, and could not have helped us more. If we have future needs for financial advice, we shall engage Sam’s services.

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

Imminent retirement plans.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Once again, I am grateful to you for your patience last week in explaining options available to me and enabling me to consider future options with more confidence than I had in the past. With warmest wishes.

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 inhereted some money and wanted to invest ethically, to save for the future. In addition as a small business owner, I had to arrange a company pension and other key insurance to ensure family income was protected against unfavourable circumstances.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Samantha's assistance has been really valuable. Her advice has facilitated some good financial investments and decisions leading to increased income diverted to savings and equity. I feel much more confident about my family and companies financial security.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I feel much more confident about my family and companies financial security.

What could they have done better?

There was a period where Samantha moved and expanded her business. Whilst this did not endanger the quality of the advice, there were multiple contracts requiring signatures to change providers, which was inconvenient and created more than expected paperwork for us. But this was a blip and has settled down now.

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

Long term investment strategy for a relative remaining in Care.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

We discussed options, timescales, the strategy and associated risks before choosing the course of action to be followed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

The outcome was fine for our circumstances, and who knows 'what might have been'. The key outcome was to protect the status for my relative and this was a successful outcome.

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

Wanting to make sure we were Ok with Stocks and Share.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Oh yes, Sam has always been extremely help full and has always given sound advice. We totally trust Sam to guide us through the mine field of Stocks & Shares.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Our investment has grown and grown even through the very difficult times, caution and patience are the rewards of a sound advisor.

What could they have done better?

No, Sam has always been up front and guided us through all the difficult financial times and reassured us when perhaps we may have made unguided decisions arrived at by News papers

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

Pension advice as I was approaching retirement.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

Advised me of the possible ways to take my pensions and then once we had agreed a plan of action she set up everything that was required.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and probably better than I was expecting.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything - she did everything I would have expected.

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

reception of a large amount of money through house sale.

How has Samantha Secomb helped you?

She worked out how much of the funds I should retain to help me maintain my current life-style, and subsequently invested the remainder on my behalf.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything. She is brilliant!