Kevin Gribben

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

As approaching retirement needed to assess what to do with multiple pensions.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin really helped in pulling together my own and my husbands pensions and savings and determining a tax efficient strategy that would allow us to have regular guaranteed income to meet our ongoing monthly expenditure. With savings to support one off expenditures in future. Has also been able to show us how financially secure we would be in retirement and what to consider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes it really helped having someone to talk through the different options. It’s was good to discuss pros/ cons of each option and then we could make an informed decision

What could they have done better?

In this initial review, I don’t think there was anything that could have been done better I was really happy with the way that the data on our pensions and savings were pulled together and explained to us. As we were taking early retirement was really good to see the implications of taking and using the money from different sources final salary, lump sum, defined contribution. Gave us some options we had not thought about.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Kevin

Very polite & professional at all times through out the consultation. Advice given was clear & concise.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Kevin

We contacted Kevin, after personal recommendation, regarding late-career and pension advice against a background of sudden and unpredicted employment challenges and with implications for our family dependents. Kevin listened carefully, overviewed our finances, and helped us to prioritise, providing potential solutions to ease pressure on potentially difficult circumstances. We now understand our pension choices better and are being supported by Kevin to action these with more confidence, invaluable steps for future.

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

Preparation for retirement in the next couple of years

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Gave me a very clear view of my retirement income options

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 was looking for someone to help with investing my savings (that where just sitting in a bank account not earing any interest) towards my pension.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin looked at my finances, discussed what I wanted to do and when I wanted to retire. Once he had all the information required he was able to advise me on the best course of action for my retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Kevin could not have done any better. The plan that was put in place, was so very good for me and I know that it would not have happened without Kevin's experience and knowledge. I am so grateful.

What could they have done better?

it could not have been done or gone any better.

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

I had money in the bank and didn't know what to do with it. I was also unsure of my financial situation after retirement.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin has looked at the whole scenario and not just the bits I was concerned about. He has spent time with me explaining in simple terms what the future looks like financially ensuring I have not had too much information thrown at me at any particular time. I am being guided through an ongoing process I am totally unqualified to do myself by a very likeable professional who is optimising my finances and also sorting me out administratively by suggesting things I could do to make life easier for loved ones in the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I can honestly say nothing.

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

We wanted a view of our finances, to gain an understanding of when we could retire and how comfortable or not that retirement could be.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin has pulled together a comprehensive view of our finances, modelled different scenarios and potential outcomes. He talked us through where certain decisions would have impacts, and suggested some ideas that we had not considered ourselves.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We now have a financial plan with a clearer view of our options and key decision points. This has given us the ability to plan with a bit more confidence than previously. All of which was delivered at a reasonable cost.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really to call out here. We had a technical glitch one meeting but don't we all these days? If anything Kevin can has been very accommodating as, due to work travel and other personal commitments, we had to reschedule a few times.

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

I was looking for guidance and advise as I approach retirement.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin listened carefully to my circumstances and future objectives in a very open manner, therefore, enabling him to provide me with a personalised service.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now have a clear understanding of my future financial situation.

What could they have done better?

I was happy with the advice provided and will continue the service.

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

Insufficient provision for retirement

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

He clearly set out a visual guide on our financial requirements on retirement and is advising us on how to achieve our goals

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Advice still ongoing

What could they have done better?

Happy with the process thus far

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

To advise on my pensions

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin made sure i got the best out of my pensions to match my lifestyle

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes very pleased with the outcome

What could they have done better?

Nothing springs to mind

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

My husband died, and I had money that had to be invested.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin has been my rock. I'm not techno, so he visited me personally, and when in know all of my circumstances, went above my expectations of helping me, and looking into all choices that I had, and explaining them fully, in laymans terms.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

For me absolutely nothing.

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

To have peace of mind that our future finances were in order.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin explained our current financial status and what we needed to do, to make sure our future after we retire that we are financially secure. Kevin also gave us advice about wills and POA.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Kevin prepared our financial plan and we are on the right track heading into our retirement. This is when we will be back in touch for further advice.

What could they have done better?

Everything was of a high standard.

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

As a couple we were looking for advice regarding our finances and pensions to make sure we were on track for our retirement.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Our inital meeting with Kevin was just over 30mins. During this meeting he clearly explained the services he could offer, and the information he would require from us. After explaining what we needed help with. Kevin explained the time line and the cost.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome has given us peace of mind that we're on track for our retirement. Kevin also gave us advice on managing our savings and arranging, at our request, information on a will and POA to be set up.

What could they have done better?

Very satisfied with the service we were given.

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

I was planning to retire early and wanted to know the best way to go about making that happen.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin helped us review our joint financial situation, layout our requirements for outgoings going forward and work out a sustainable plan to meet our retirement goals.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have been retired now for 5 years through some turbulent economic times and Kevin has always been there with suggestions and advice to minimise the impact on my pension earning potential.

What could they have done better?

Really nothing his advice has always been very timely and I have agreed with all of his suggestions

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

Nearing retirement age

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin reviewed my various pensions and provided advice about how to manage these.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, after reviewing my financial plan for the future I have a clear understanding of what I need to do to get the best out of my retirement pension pots

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

Transfer of a pension

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin has always given me sound advice. He has suggested solutions that I had not considered, and these solutions have exceeded my expectations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes from my reviews and the actions taken following discussions with Kevin have been better than I would have expected every time.

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

Looking for a clear plan for family financials and to understand retirement provisions

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

We discussed objectives and current position. I know now what I need to do for rest of working years

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I now have the confidence that I’m doing the best of what I have now but also what lifestyle I can achieve in the the future.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, totally satisfied that I have achieved what I set out to do when engaging with Kevin & BlueSky

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

Multiple pensions which needed to be managed

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Consolidated my pension pot and i now have a financial plan for my retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes in a challenging market

What could they have done better?

Nothing

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

I was looking to invest my personal pensions into a more suitable investment plan to suit myself and my wife's circumstances

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin was instrumental in ensuring that we were fully aware of the process that we were going to enter into and both the risks and opportunities with our choices. He ensured we completed the relevant training around the financial processes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have seen the results that we were planning for.

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

I am a client of Standard Life and they recommended Kevin and that association has worked for me

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Yes definitely, I trust him and he explains things in a language I understand .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes everything keeps ticking along despite the 2 recessions

What could they have done better?

Can’t think of anything

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

I had long term investment and pensions that needed consolidating.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin Gribben has managed my investment portfolio for over 30 years with excellent results.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes i have seen very favourable results over the years.

What could they have done better?

Kevin has been a very good financial advisor for me and my family. Just keep doing what you are doing.

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

Advice on retirement pension funds.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Advised on where to invest pension funds and set them up for me

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Happy with the way my investments are going

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

We had a number of pensions across various companies but had never properly reviewed our overall pensions position. Were unsure whether we were on track to have a comfortable amount for retirement and had little idea of how our funds were performing. We wanted someone to provide a picture of how our pensions income would look if we continued as is and advise whether we need to do something different.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin has pulled together all of our pensions info, providing up to date values and pulling all of this information into a detailed financial plan with different scenarios. We now have clear information and know how exactly what we need to do to work towards our desired target for pensions income on retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. Kevin has spent lots of time explaining all of the options and helping us to understand the various alternatives. We are now very clear on where we are with our pensions planning and have made adjustments which will ensure that our retirement outlook is very much more positive than it would have been had we not carried out this exercise.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, service was first class, everything we asked for was covered.

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

We needed to plan for our retirement.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin has helped us to see which funds we use to fund our early retirement, prior to state pension age, and when to begin to drawdown our pension. We have a far better grasp on what funds to use when, and how to keep our tax bills to the minimum.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely feel we understand the process much better.

What could they have done better?

It has been great having access to the portal to see updates, and to have answers to any queries we had.

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

I was looking for advice on the best strategy for taking my pensions in order to achieve financial security during my and my husband's retirement.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin conducted a comprehensive review of our financial position and, using cashflow forecasts, set out our likely financial position in the future in a variety of scenarios. He was able to bring clarity to our financial situation and propose a way forward.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Kevin provided a detailed and clear financial plan for us and answered all my questions helpfully and succinctly.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Kevin

Never bothered to make contact

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Always good advice

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin helped me to make the decision to retire and has looked after the fund choices for me during this time.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin continues to provide an excellent service and keeps us on the right track for our plans during our retirement years

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin explained my pension and when I could access my pension. Due to Kevin's very good management of my finances and pension I have now took early retirement, on a budget that keeps me comfortable.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin keeps me informed on how my investments are performing and advises any strategy change to optimise my investment

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin has continued to provide excellent advice and assistance in our retirement planning. This has given us the confidence to retire early, confident that our investments will be sufficient to support us.

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

I was approaching potential retirement and wanted expert financial advice about when and how to take pensions.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

He asked what were the things I wanted to be able to do in the next 10-15 yrs and directed me to ways of financing this with my financial assets.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes- I am now feeling more informed and confident about when to take my pension and also aware of what I can realistically afford and when.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin always completes a thorough review which gives me confidence that I am on the right track for my retirement plans. I get regular updates by email about current topics which might interest me and he keep me informed in between reviews as well as always being there to answer any questions I have. He has recently given my daughters support in their financial planning which really helped them start to formulate their own plans which I really appreciated.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Continuing to place investments for best return in an unpredictable market.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin is always hugely helpful and informative about the current economic conditions and gives a very full appraisal about our current financial position. All questions and queries are dealt with suggesting he is a very well informed advisor.

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

I am about to claim state pension so tax planning was important

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

Kevin continues to provide us with excellent advice on our pension

This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you since your last review?

As always advice was very clear and spot on

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

Approaching retirement and wanting to a review/check of our financial plans

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

By doing a detailed review of our finances, pensions and investments and then proposing cashflow scenarios for our retirements that met our agreed objectives. This was done by means of a detailed report followed by a series of online meetings to present the report and to supplement it with detail on specific topics such as Lifetime Tax Allowance

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - Kevin explained his scenarios including illustrations of the pro's/con's of each

What could they have done better?

Nothing - We were attracted by BlueSky's fixed price and flexible fee structure which was competitive with other providers. We opted for the holistic “health check” and may, in the future, access some of the other services on offer. We have been very impressed with the quality and level of detail included in the report provided by Kevin (including countless very helpful graphs!) In addition to the very good, customised output we have been very impressed with Kevin’s knowledge, flexibility and ability to communicate financial concepts in an easy to understand manner (and his patient good humour!) We would have no hesitation recommending Bluesky Wealth as a provider and Kevin as an adviser.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Kevin

Kevin was very helpful in providing initial guidance on the start of my retirement journey. He explained everything clearly avoiding jargon and was most personable and professional.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Kevin

Mostly Kevin describing his process and report service. We didn’t discuss fees at all so I have to answer no. I’m sure if I’d have asked he would have been clear on those.

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

Investment planning, and how to invest the savings for best returns.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Reviewing the needs for my personal saving plan with the goals and objectives for the future taken into account, with my limited financial knowledge explaining this clearly for easy understanding.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes compared to the interest rates the banks are currently offering, even through these uncertain times, a good return for the investment.

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

Having a financial background, historically I was comfortable managing our families financial affairs but I was conscious that I wanted a specialist to review what I had implemented and suggest improvements in the insurance and protection space whilst also reviewing my pension planning and researching private pension plan solutions, I also wanted to centralise my financial planning with someone that could also assist my next of kin if there was ever a bereavement situation.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin undertook an in depth financial review of my current situation and engaged in multiple conversations to understand what I wanted in the future in respect of financial and retirement planning. From these discussions we identified multiple options for review and financial modelling on the outcomes of each of these options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The initial financial scoping work can be a bit 'boring' but required, and once completed it was great to start to breath life into the various outcome scenarios through the financial modelling tools that Kevin has at his disposal. The outcomes achieved in insurance, protection and pensions were exactly what I was wanting to see and I was also pleased to get reassurance on the foundations that had been laid to date.

What could they have done better?

I was completely happy with the service - Kevin was available at any time of the day, including evenings, and was always well researched and knowledgeable.

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

Whilst working full-time for the NHS and owning my own home I made my own decisions about savings/investments. Having retired early from full-time employment, sold my house in England and moved into a rented property in Scotland, I felt I needed professional advice to manage my finances in the future, given my dependence on pensions and savings and the delay in receiving my State Pension until 65 years and 10 months.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

From our first meeting onwards, Kevin has, I believe, given me sound financial advice and support. He helped me to acknowledge my attitude to risk, which continues to affect my decisions. More so, he has a better understanding of the financial markets so is more realistic about the future of my savings/investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. In the last few years I have been very concerned about my financial position due to the global market recessions and more recently the economic impact of Coronavirus.

What could they have done better?

When you are contacted or speak to your financial adviser, please accept their offer of approaching them at any time - I think it's genuine. Even what appears to a customer as a minor concern may have validity and they can advise immediately.

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

Continuation of my Prudential Retirement Plan

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Provided clear and straightforward advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, considering the impact of COVID 19

What could they have done better?

Absolutely happy with service and advice.

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

We are nearing retirement age and reckoned that we needed professional advice on how to make best use of the plans we had started

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin was able explain what we had and more importantly how best to plan for our future. He consolidated our funds and advised on appropriate direction n his opinionwould give us an investment return based on our attitude to risk.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

To date we are very happy with the advice we have received. Obviously the current situation is a bit more uncertain,but we are happy that should action need to be taken that Kevin would advise us accordingly.

What could they have done better?

I'm not quite sure. We have begun to receive updates,almost a newsletter type communication which I think is useful and could be expanded to a more regular feature

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

We run a small business and needed to set up our own pension arrangements.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin assessed our expected retirement income need, how much we could afford to put away, the tax implications for the business, and the level of risk we would tolerate before recommending products. He also assessed existing pensions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes in tax efficiency, but too early to assess pension.

What could they have done better?

I believe the assessment was very thorough and there is no way to make this stuff interesting or exciting. My only gripe is with the pension provider is dreadfully slow at responding to changes requests and there is no self-serve (or quick serve through the advisor). There is no excuse for slow financial transactions these days. Hopefully pressure from the advisors will push this particular provider to up their game.

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

Came out of company pension schemes and wanted to review various different pension schemes i had.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Let me compare all the pension options and whether to amalgamate and if so into which plan. Then helped me look into financial planning for retirement and make adjustments as required so as a family we had a better idea of how we'd be placed financially in retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far, so good.

What could they have done better?

Kevin has always explained everything very clearly and whenever I have had any questions he has been able to answer them in detail.

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

Changed from Prudential

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

To guide me financially

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

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

We needed to protect our savings against inflation and minimise liability for inheritance tax.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin took the time to get to know us and to understand our situation. He was imaginative in suggesting possible strategies and has maintained an active oversight of our investments for maybe five years now.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, everything has worked according to plan. We’ve been very pleased indeed with performance to date.

What could they have done better?

I don’t have any suggestions here.

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

Retirement planning

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

He consolidated our many different types of investments into a manageable portfolio

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, easy to keep track and working as planned

What could they have done better?

Our advisor could only have done better for us if we had taken this step earlier in our lives.

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

Retirement planning

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Straightforward no nonsense and secure advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Outcome has been generally good but unforeseen circumstances, i.e. Covid have impacted on pension pot

What could they have done better?

I don’t think Kevin could have done any more to advise my wife and I

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

I was intending retiring early from work and was keen to obtain advise on whether this would be possible.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin looked at our financial situation, pension options and worked several models for us to show what options would be viable and sustainable for us as a couple.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We were both able to retire as planned and are confident that Kevin will continue to advise the best models for our combined pensions.

What could they have done better?

The only improvement I would suggest is that the hard copy file containing all the pension information was more available to us.

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

Transitioning to semi-retired status having moved to Scotland

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin helped us to understand our financial situation and enabled us to transition to "active semi retirement" with confidence. He helped translate our estimates of income and expenditure into a plan for the next phases of our life. He also stress tested this with a number of What If scenarios. This has given us peace of mind to know what we can afford to do and what to change if circumstances change.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we have restructured our financial assets and are clear about what we can afford to spend over the next years. Although Covid19 has impacted our income this year we have not been lying awake worrying as we know where we stand and that, with some adjustment, we can weather the storm.

What could they have done better?

Difficult to think of improvements. Kevin has been flexible in meeting us at our home, at a mutually convenient meeting place on the mainland, and, very effectively, in online meetings. We have found him personable, clear in his explanations, transparent in terms of fees charged and we trust his analysis and recommendations.

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

Pension investment advice

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Provided information and advice on range of options to invest.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The current climate is very difficult to predict with the global pandemic, so recently returns have been less.

What could they have done better?

Kevin has been excellent, very professional and prompt with his responses.

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

nearing retirement

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

with good advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

maybe a follow up phone call

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

I was looking at the possibility of retiring early and wanted to make sure that I made an informed decision regarding my financial planning going forward.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin provided me with extensive information regarding my option for retiring early. He fully explained all the options that were available to me and make recommendations that would allow me to make an informed decision regarding my financial plan for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes! Kevin gave me lots of information and explained everything in easy to understand terms and took time to make sure that I understood the information that I was given!

What could they have done better?

No, I think Kevin provided me with an excellent service.

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

Retirement planning

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

He created an extensive retirement plan, after lengthy discussions regarding our aspirations, which fitted our short term and long term needs

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes totally

What could they have done better?

What he did was perfect so no improvements required

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

I decided to retire from my business

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Gave us all the advice we needed to look to our retirement

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?

Left RBS after 15 yrs wanted kids to benefit from my pension contributions and general financial advice

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin helped with all aspects of my financial needs that I had requested him to advise on and for which he was qualified. I am currently speaking to Kevin re will writing services post recent divorce from my partner

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Covid has had an impact but my pension contributions have been protected following food advice from Kevin

What could they have done better?

N/a

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

Approaching retirement and needed advice on retirement income

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin presented me with several options and explained each one in detail. He dealt with the whole thing from start to finish and nothing was too much trouble.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am now retired and receive exactly what was set out before me by Kevin.

What could they have done better?

On this occasion I felt that everything was done in a professional and speedy manner and have no complaints or criticisms

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

retiring from business and wanting to make best use of assets

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

organised to get all finances together and set up plan to deal with my money reguirements

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

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

Planning for retirement and best use of available finances over an extended period.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin provided invaluable guidance to help better understand our 'actual' financial profile and plan for the future with a degree of reassuarnce.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Unquestionably and this is supported by a process of regular reviews which is very important.

What could they have done better?

I have identified no shortcomings whatsover and feel most reassured that I have now developed such a relationship with Kevin that I feel I can contact him at any time.

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

I had a small number of work pensions including final salary and money purchase. These matured at different times, starting at 60 yrs, and I needed to consider the options available, how these would affect me and my family at the time and in the future. With limited knowledge and any decisions of key importance to my families future I looked into getting financial advice.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin took stock of my financial situation, savings, pension annuity and transfer values. We also discussed my personal situation in terms of work and future plans for work, retirement, family values and plans. It was important that any financial planning took into account my wife and family and Kevin addressed this throughout all discussions. Kevins wish to understand my attitude to risk was of particular importance for me, particularly early in our engagement. Providing detailed financial analysis, cashflow and planning models is a great asset and allows non-experts to easily view current status and future planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

By discussing my current status and multiple options available to me, Kevin helped me exceed my expectations resulting in early retirement, personal and family financial planning. Our family has been delighted with the outcome and level of service from Kevin.

What could they have done better?

Nothing springs to mind and we have been delighted with the service.

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

I was considering early retirement, but was not sure if my wife and I had enough savings and pension to allow this. I heard of Colin from a colleague at work.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin collated our financial data such as savings and potential pension income and displayed it to us in an easy to understand format. This gave me the confidence I needed to retire, safe in the knowledge that our retirement would be comfortable. Kevin helped to activate three pensions to provide the base income stream and also streamlined our savings in a tax efficient fashion. Kevin is very approachable and alway has time to discuss any points we struggle with.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Kevin's advice gave us the confidence we needed to start on the retirement adventure. Due to Covid-19, we have not had the chance to travel as much as we hoped, but we have embarked on home improvement projects in the meantime.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of.

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

When I retired from work in 1992 the firm I worked for arranged free financial advice for retirees. The adviser I was with moved on so when I moved to Kilmarnock three years ago I contacted Investec who recommended Kevin Gribben.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Before the Coronovirus bombshell he made a couple of home visits and talked to me on the telephone. Things went well and I had confidence in his advice. I still do.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, although in the present circumstances of course, my investments have dropped.

What could they have done better?

A regular contact, perhaps a monthly call, email or letter, telling me whether things are going up or down would reassure me. Since I live alone I would feel more at ease with everything.

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

I was looking to invest some money from a couple of frozen/deferred pensions.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin explained the options available to me and also took a lot of time to understand what my concerns and objectives were. He understood that I did not have a financial background and explained things in such a way that I understood what he was talking about.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, our relationship continues to grow and his advice has proven to be sound, my investments are growing and we had a long discussion about the economic impacts of Covid 19 which was beneficial and calmed some of my nerves.

What could they have done better?

Nothing obvious springs to mind.

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

I was exploring early retirement and pension freedom.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin took me through my options and explained the benefits and possible pitfalls of the various options. He performed a thorough analysis of my pensions and provided income forecasts for the various options. Kevin also investigated my understanding of risk and my attitude to risk so I had a good understanding of how an investment might work for me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I am completely satisfied with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

Personally I have no complaints and I am completely satisfied with the service provided.

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

I needed help with what to do with a pot of money

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

He listened to my needs and talked me thr it in layman's terms not jargon which I appreciated

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so, he saved me money thr tax efficiency and is always efficient.

What could they have done better?

I don't know if he could have done anything better. I trust him to do the best for me.

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

Investments advice and retirement planning

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

For the last 20+ years Kevin Gribben has given me financial advise on investments and pensions, and over this period I have found him to be both professional and knowledgable. Kevin always provides good honest advice and i would not hesitate in recommending his services to anyone seeking sound financial planing advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The planing that was put in place for my retirement has performed reasonably well given the current market conditions.

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

My wife and I are considering early retirement. In order to give us the confidence that we would have the lifestyle we wanted we needed professional advice. We'd engaged with other financial advisors previously, but in every other case we were left with the impression that they cared more about their fees than what was best for us. I friend recommended Kevin and we have been delighted with his advice so far.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

He analysed our current savings and pension provisions and financial needs in retirement. He recommended some very positive changes to our savings while also recommending that good provisions be left as they were. He listened, explained and advised. his modelling of our likely future cashflow has been particularly valuable, providing a range of best, worst and likely case models that were easy to understand and gave us the confidence we were looking for.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Our savings are in a much better place. Our planning is now based on detailed analysis and scenario-based planning. We are delighted.

What could they have done better?

I'm struggling to see where the service could be improved. We got exactly what we wanted in a way that suited us.

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

We were getting to an age where we had started to think about our financial planning needs and wanted advice around, life insurance, martgages and planning for our retirement.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Working with Kevin was a pleasure and a very rewarding experience. Initially Kevin has helped us identify the right life insurance and income protection policies for us. Kevin was excellent in providing a range of providers and helping us decide which one was right for us. We are delighted with the choice Kevin assisted us with. Kevin was always very professional but down to earth, patient and really responsive in getting information back to us. Kevin also afford us a lot of flexibility in when he spoke with us and was happy to work around our schedule. As a result we fully intend to work with Kevin to further our financial planning and would have no hesitation in recommending his service to others.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we're very happy with the policies that Kevin helped us select for life insurance and income protection.

What could they have done better?

There is nothing that Kevin could have improved upon in our opinion - he was great.

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

Preparing for retirement and wanted to ensure that my pension funds were in the best accounts for protection and growth

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

I had several pension pots and Kevin, having established what was most important to me in terms of lifestyle and income requirements, was able to advise me on the best home for each of the pots.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Despite the market hit caused by Covid and I am delighted to say that my Pension pots have performed really well.

What could they have done better?

Nothing! Kevin is well qualified, easy to talk to, and offers great advice. First Class Adviser in my opinion.

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

Nearing retirement we were advised by our pension providers to seek independent advice for our future planning.

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

Kevin answered clearly our questions and layed out options in a clears and easy to understand format. He took our personal concerns into consideration when helping us decide the best options to provide the safest plan to provide the income we would like in our retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With Kevin's clear, sound advice we feel we have achieved more than we anticipated without the fears and worries about handling our finances. Regular meetings with Kevin keep us well informed about our investments and pensions. He is always available.

What could they have done better?

Very happy with the service we are receiving from Kevin. Team meetings on line and the secure computer portals, although not our personal choice of contact, have been an invaluable addition to his service during the lockdown period.

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

We had savings and an investment bond and wanted to be sure that our finances were in order and that our future financial plans were well placed, especially as we hoped to retire early (which we did).

How has Kevin Gribben helped you?

The advice that we have received from Kevin has always been excellent. He is always available when we require any advice and meets with us at a time to suit us. The advice is always presented very professionally and clearly explained to us. We have both recently retired (early) and the planning and guidance given to us was invaluable in giving us the confidence that we were well prepared, financially, to allow us to do so. Kevin has prepared our financial plan based on our future needs and requirements and we are very satisfied with plan he has prepared.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - we have both retired early and our investments remain secure and will meet our future needs.

What could they have done better?

Nil