Reviewed for

Insurance and Protection ( 3 )

Mortgages ( 2 )

Pensions ( 19 )

Equity Release ( 1 )

Retirement income (annuities, drawdown) ( 5 )

Investments and Savings ( 31 )

Pension Transfers - Non Specialist ( 4 )

Inheritance Planning ( 4 )

Reviewers' assets

£500k+ ( 7 )

£200k - £500k ( 7 )

£100k - £200k ( 4 )

£50k - 100k ( 4 )

Up to £50k ( 3 )

Client reviews

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2019

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Stuart

Stuart was very informative in discussing our options

Review from verified client

October, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cumbria

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

Realising that I would benefit from professional advice to get the best from my savings.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

He listened to my concerns carefully and uncritically and then gave clear and positive advice. I had been anxious about the visit and, really, I need not have worried at all. Stuart was very easy to talk to.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

A very definite yes, I just wish I had gone to see Stuart sooner.

What could they have done better?

I honestly cannot think of anything at all he could have done better. I do not have a lot of money but Stuart gave the attention and care to my situation I would have expected a mega-millionaire to get!

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cheshire

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

Nearing Retirement and desire to transfer some pension funds to SIPP.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart was very helpful in explaining the rules around pension, helping my wife and I understand the risks of each option and to assist in the transfer to the SIPP. Stuart also sought to match our risk appetite to the appropriate SIPP strategy (of reducing volatility and managing returns in a appropriate way for our circumstances.) Stuart has been very helpful in providing cash flow analysis and estimates of income and expenditure to help us better manage our outgoings. Stuart also was very helpful in updating us on current laws, rules and to confirm the investment strategy is still appropriate for our circumstances. Stuart is always very helpful and nothing is too much trouble for him. He is very professional and always there to help us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

nothing

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

A move back to my home town and he need to consolidate all my previous investments.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

By explaining the options and asking whether I needed an income etc. from my investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No yet but this is a longterm investment schedule.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, as far as I am concerned.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cheshire

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

Long term planning for retirement.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Re balanced my investments for long term growth.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at this time

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

I wanted to put more into pensions following changes over rules to accessing them post retirement.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart advised me on rules around contributions and draw down, on plans for future contributions, on creating an appropriate wrapper for the investments, and on identifying a suitable mix of investments to achieve my desired risk profile.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am happy with the plans for contributions and draw down and on the mix of investments in the funds.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of; everything has gone as I would have hoped it would.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Aberdeenshire

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

Financial planning and investment of money for retirement.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Having no knowledge in this area ,Stuart was able to fully explain the and discuss the importance of investing our money to safeguard our future retirement. Everything was explained to us in detail and all our questions were answered in full and easy to understand language.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to comment at this stage as finances have only been in place approximately a year.

What could they have done better?

Everything was as good as expected on recommendation by a family member.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

I was looking for advice and help in making the best use of y available money with a view to plan the best use - and I was then probably in my final appointment before retirement.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

With good practical advice, helpful information and a willingness to explain situations. This has always been given willingly with availability when required.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been very satisfied with the outcome & feel that the service has been well suited to my situation. I particularly appreciate his clear explanation of matters affecting changing financial situations and candour where needed.

What could they have done better?

I do not have a crystal ball!

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

I wished to safeguard my families' future. When making a Will my Solicitor suggested that I sought Inheritance advice.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart helped me to address Inheritance Tax Liability. He explained everything clearly in a way that was easy to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I was happy with his recommendations and set up a Trust Fund. I receive an in depth report annually.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Bridgend

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

Redundancy and retirement.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Provide guidance and advice based on experience to help me plan and live through a major change.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

the initial set up was excellent , however as the investments are at an early stage the outcome is not yet wher we wanted it to be.

What could they have done better?

Following initial 1-1 meetings we have agreed while continuing to meet every 6 months we will put a call in place each quarter to have an update which in these turbulent ecocomic times is wise .

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

Investment advice.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Excellent advice and relevant explanation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Genuinely can't think of anything

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

In the distant past before Stuart, my wife and I had a small amount to invest and no direction as to the financial market place and so sought advice.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart has since taken care of our investments and has regularly reshaped our investments post our reviews.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, and have seen the care and thought that he displays when explaining to us what is required.

What could they have done better?

There are no suggestions to be made we are extremely satisfied with the way he takes care of our needs.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Northamptonshire

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

Coming up to retirement.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

He helped in every aspect of my policies contacting all insurance companies, explaining all to me at every stage through to completion.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I was happy with the recommendations which suited my needs, and am happy with the arrangements as a result of this advice.

What could they have done better?

No better advise could have been given in my case.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cheshire

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

Retirement and inheritance.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Explaining options very clearly, without pressure , with plenty of time to consider choices and always available to answer any questions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

For us Stuart really could not have done a better job. His advice, attentiveness, availability and thoughtfulness have been second to none. He has always taken care to remember small details and explain answers to our questions in a language we understand clearly.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

Investments become more and more risky in these volatile times, to have some take the weight and worry from me is well worth while.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart took both my wife and my circumstances into consideration, he assessed all the problems and queries we put to him in a professional and practical manor .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Under the present day circumstances I think Stuart has carried out his services to us with very favourable results.

What could they have done better?

It is very difficult for me to come up with anything which could be done any better than the way it has been done. If I could improve the situation myself , I would have done so myself. I have faith in my judgement of Stuart and he has never let me down.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cheshire

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

Taking early retirement at 55.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Full personal financial assessment of current and future needs and attitude to risk Review of existing pension arrangements including potential to transfer out of a work DB scheme.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, delighted with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

N

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

AVC's being moved due the Government's relaxing of the regulations. Converted the fund into a 'draw down fund'.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Provided advice and drew up a portfolio of proposed investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to say - only 6 months since we set up the fund.

What could they have done better?

Left a bit unclear as to what I am going to get for my ' managed service' which is costing me over £200 per year ! If I dont achieve that much in ihterest, then it will have been wasted !

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

I was looking for impartial and trustworthy advice regarding my pension options.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart listened to what my concerns and requirements were and guided me through the options available and understood exactly how to realise what my aims and objectives were. Stuart explained everything in a clear, jargon free way which was important.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I was totally happy with Stuart's recommendations and as a result I feel confident that my future retirement plans will be realised.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

Seeking help and advice with respect to financial planning.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Carried out annual appraisals and gave advice, updating financial portfolios.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Completely satisfied with all aspects of Questa's recommendations with respect to financial planning.

What could they have done better?

Nothing more could have been achieved.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

Our previous financial advisor had retired and we needed a review of our savings and my pension provision.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Visited us at home and prepared proposals and comparisons for us to consider. He also got us what I consider to be a good deal in a difficult market.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I don't think so

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

Inheritance / estate.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Review of inherited equities.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet.

What could they have done better?

Don't consider the Client is aware of financial jargon, explain issues in layman's terms

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

Retirement planning.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart was knowledgeable, explained our options clearly and was very attendant to our particular needs. He helped us decide what to do with our retirement funds in order to best protect us for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes very happy with his continuing service and advice in order for us to look forward to our future financial security.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

My husband's death put the finances totally in my domain so I sought professional help as the investment were comlicated. My solicitor introduced me to Stuart Dewin.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

He has always explained things very well and is ready to answer any questions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

since being with him I am very pleased with the progress of the investments.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

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

I am a widow living alone with banking and legal experience and am aware of the risks of doing something silly with your money if there is nobody to keep you on the straight and narrow !.

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

He has guided me in respect of my investments and income without putting pressure on me in any way.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes completely. It is no fault of his that the financial world is in the mess it is at the moment!,,.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything he could do better

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2015

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Stuart

s

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2014

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Stuart

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2014

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Stuart

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2014

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Stuart

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart is always friendly and approachable and gives an honest opinion in a way that is easy to understand. His advice has helped our investments achieve excellent results. Stuart is always easy to approach at any time of the year for advice, not just at the annual reviews.

What could they have done better?

Nothing we can think of.

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cumbria

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

I trust Stuart to advise me on all my financial planning and investments. He has considerable knowledge and professional integrity. During a very difficult financial period he has protected me against loss, stabilised my investments and is now achieving healthy growth. Stuart aways takes time to explain the current situation and possible future trends and developments. He doesn't 'blind you with science' and is easy to understand. I am of a different generation to Stuart, yet I am able to talk freely with him about any matter, knowing he is absolutely trustworthy. Stuart will always remain as my financial advisor.

What could they have done better?

In professional terms, nothing. (Personally, I wish he would support Blackpool Football Club rather than Manchester United - but you can't have everything!)

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Kent

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

For seven years Stuart has managed our investments and encouraged us to enjoy the benefits of the yield. Always friendly and interested in our lifestyle choices, we rely on his advice which we can seek at any time.

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything as Stuart always covers everything clearly and patiently.

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart understands me, he took time to listen to what i wanted to achieve and time to understand my views on risk. He went at my pace, took time to listen he did 't push anything but took on board my issues, my thoughts and also explained everything in a way i could understand. He has worked around my avaiability and time frames and is someone who i feel i can work with ongoing.

What could they have done better?

To carry on explaining the jargon and technical terms in such a way that a layperson can understand. I find the way he breaks things down and uses diagrams very helpful and hope he will continue to do this.

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart is extremely friendly, helpful ,knowledgable and patient. Nothing is too much trouble for him and he takes care to explain all the pros and cons, whilst always being mindful of our points of view. He really inspires confidence and we have been very happy with his advice.

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Yorkshire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

- Listens carefully and not afraid to challenge thinking therefore resulting in meaningful objectives and realistic strategies being set. - Clearly has a high degree of technical expertise but able to explain the pertinent points (including all key pros and cons) in a clear and concise manner. - Always available and quick response times - The overall approach generates a feeling of complete trust in the advice provided

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

I have complete trust in his advice. I believe that he will give me truly independent advice suitable for my own financial situation. He is always available if I need any financial advice in between our regular reviews and indeed has been kind enough to help my son on occasions. His expertise with Trusts has been particularly useful for my situation.

What could they have done better?

Difficult one, I 'm afraid I can't think of anything!

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Leicestershire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart helps me understand clearly how my money is invested. I can ask his advice without fear of being 'talked down to'

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart has managed our somewhat complex portfolio of investments since Questa was founded in 2007 The professional and trustworthy approach he takes to all Legal Financial and taxation issues regarding our Estate , Inheritance Tax planning , Pensions , Trusts , Settlements and Investments are ,therefore ,always addressed speedily and efficiently. He always explains matters in understandable language giving us the confidence that decisions we make are the right ones, We find QuestaÂ’s 6 stage advice process helpful with our decision making. Stuart has always handled our affairs in a friendly helpful and knowledgeable manner. in particular his Computer analysis at Annual review coupled with large screen projection, gives an easily understood graphic of our financial situation. Projections shows clearly where adjustments need to be made in keeping with our age and attitude to risk. John & Yvonne Retired Company Directors Lancashire

What could they have done better?

We are very satisfied with the excellent service he provides

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart listens to your requests and personal needs then advises. He has been very helpful to me during a personal traumatic time. I trust him and feel able to ask any questions relating to finances. I am very pleased with the service

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Our financial concerns and investments have been managed by Stuart Dewin of Questa Chartered Financial Planners for a number of years. We have always found that the advice and subsequent investments have been very sound and produced excellent returns. The six stage planning and review process is very thorough, taking into account a full overview of our financial commitments, lifestyle and spending as well as our attitude to risk. Mr. Dewin then prepares a suggested action plan which he explains carefully and at a level which is appropriate to our level of knowledge of the financial and investment markets. He is always happy to take time to ensure that we fully understand the proposal and the possible implications .Over the last few years, the return achieved on our investments has always been significantly higher than the sector benchmarks. Mr Dewin has also been responsible for advising on and managing a Discretionary Trust Fund set up on our late motherÂ’s death. This was a complicated issue, due to a number of factors, but again, the advice and returns gained have been excellent. He has demonstrated a very thorough knowledge of Trust Fund regulations. On a personal level, we have found that Mr. Dewin to be very friendly and that he takes a genuine interest in ourselves and other members of the family. He is very approachable and works very hard on our behalf. We value his services and totally trust his judgement in handling our affairs.

What could they have done better?

Difficult to think of anything that could be done better.

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Merseyside

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart has worked with me and my wife for about 5 years to ensure we receive the appropriate returns for the risk level we believe is correct for our circumstances. Stuart is technically well versed, very capable of explaining in clear terms all aspects of our investments and is able to sensibly forecast likely outcomes for the years ahead. He is readily contactable and responds effectively and timely to any queries or questions we may have. He is exceptionally good at providing detailed records of our bi-annual financial reviews giving clear actions for both him and ourselves. Stuart listens carefully to financial questions we might raise and sometimes takes actions based on our suggestions or explains why we should not proceed. I'm really satisfied with the service we receive and the growth in our investments over the past few years

What could they have done better?

Nothing to say here - were just happy with the service we get

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Following the death of my husband I felt inadequate to cope with the many and various investments he had made. Stuart was extremely considerate and kind in reassuring me about investments for the future and how best to invest to preserve capital for my family. He also reassured me that I could enjoy the money left and use cash for holidays, cars, furniture, any other items without fear of running into debt. Stuart contacts me regularly and asks if I have any problems and is always ready to help. I find Stuart to be a well-groomed, pleasant and patient person who always deals with any questions I ask.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything which Stuart could do better as he seems to have covered all my financial needs. He always follows up E-Mails and telephone queries which is very reassuring to know. He also seems quite modest about his recent achievements!!

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

My adviser is very approachable, takes time to explain things to me and puts a lot of effort into his pre-planning before our reviews. I believe he has a thorough well-grounded knowledge of financial matters and is always prepared to listen to any suggestions I may put forward

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of any improvement

Review from verified client

April, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Lancashire

How has Stuart Dewin helped you?

Stuart excels in his customer centric approach. He is always prepared to discuss different scenarios and tailors his advice and services to specifically meet the clients circumstances, to a far greater extent than any other individual or organisation that I have worked with. Given the relatively complex nature of my financial plans Stuart manages to explain in a simple and straight forward way the different pros and cons to various investment options. At each step I have full confidence and trust in Stuart and the recommendations he presents. Finally the six step process that Questa employs together with the scenario mapping software is both clear, concise and very effective. I have no hesitation in recommending both Stuart and Questa to any organisation or individual and I genuinely look forward to my meetings with Stuart who has become a trusted and very valued advisor.

What could they have done better?

There is very little that I can think of that needs improving however perhaps a simple monthly or bi monthly excel spreadsheet update showing the investments by sector and the growth V slat period would be an interesting and useful document.