Reviewed for
Insurance and Protection ( 3 )
Pensions ( 21 )
Equity Release ( 2 )
Retirement income (annuities, drawdown) ( 7 )
Investments and Savings ( 24 )
Pension Transfers - Non Specialist ( 4 )
Inheritance Planning ( 2 )
Pension Transfers - Specialist ( 4 )
Financial Planning ( 6 )
Financial Mentoring ( 3 )
Reviewers' assets
£500k+ ( 1 )
£200k - £500k ( 7 )
£100k - £200k ( 8 )
Up to £50k ( 3 )
£50k - 100k ( 7 )
Client reviews
Review from verified client
January, 2024
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Peeblesshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Excellent quality of service and advice
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
With the all processes with my pension
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Very
What could they have done better?
Nothing all good
Scott's reply
Allan, thanks for the very positive review, its greatly appreciated
Review from verified client
January, 2024
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Turned 55 and started planning for retirement
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott has been first class
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Good outcome and Scott kept me informed throughout process
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Scott's reply
Iain, thanks for the positive review, its much appreciated.
Repeat review from verified client
December, 2023
Overall
Service
Advice
Value
Based in Midlothian
This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you since your last review?
Basically advising me where to invest.
Scott's reply
Rita, thanks for your positive review, its much appreciated.
Repeat review from verified client
December, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you since your last review?
Regular contact. Let's us know if anything needs changing.
Scott's reply
Ronnie/Moira, thanks for the positive review, it very much appreciated. Scott
Repeat review from verified client
November, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
This review is a follow-up review from a client who left a review previously.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you since your last review?
Scott has kept in regular touch since our last review of his services. He maintained that contact throughout the period of the pandemic. We understand and trust what he tells us and intend to stay with him as our financial adviser
Scott's reply
Alan/Helen, thanks you for the positive review. its very much appreciated Scott
First impression from a user who is not yet a client
October, 2023
Overall
Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Scott
Very easy to talk to. Explains Pension performance in a straight forward way, so you understand it easier.
Scott's reply
Thanks you Sandra & Dean for the positive feedback, its very much appreciated..
Review from verified client
October, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Stirlingshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I previously invested with St James Place (SJP). My Financial Advisor was retiring and introduced me to Scott with whom I have been with for about 4 years.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott has provided me with good advice with respect to my retirement planning. Provides updates on market conditions, and explains the charts and graphs during my annual review, within which he outlines potential short-term and long-term plans enabling me to have a clear picture of the current situation and decisions which have to be addressed.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Initially yes, but due to the financial situation and conflicts across the entire world there has been quite a dip in my expectations.
What could they have done better?
Unfortunately nothing, will just have to wait until the current financial climate has stabilised.
Scott's reply
Michael, was a pleasure speaking with you today, and thank you for your positive review, its very much appreciated.
Review from verified client
October, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Gloucestershire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
The need for personalized, expert, management of my pension funds.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Pension transfers and investment advice.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Very early days, however, the fact that the funds are now much better invested should yield higher returns
What could they have done better?
Scott is very qualified and personable financial advisor
Scott's reply
Cezar, thanks you for the positive review, its much appreciated
Review from verified client
September, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Midlothian
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My pension was not performing with my old advisor, before I switched to st james place
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He thoroughly explained everything about my pension and how and why it is performing as it has
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
As much as can be expected in current times
What could they have done better?
Nothing I can think of
Scott's reply
Roger, thanks for the positive review, its very much appreciated
Review from verified client
September, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I was worried about the amount of cover I had to repay my mortgage if I died
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott looked at what cover I had and got me a new plan that gives me the correct cover at a price less than what I was paying before !!
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes,,very happy
What could they have done better?
Nothing ,simple easy process
Scott's reply
Thanks you for your positive review Sharon, its much appreciated.
Review from verified client
September, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Midlothian
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Service through ex employer
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Given good advice
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Scott's reply
Thank you for the positive review Fiona, its much appreciated, Scott
Review from verified client
May, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I had money to invest a few years ago and became a client of SJP. My advisor was retiring and introduced me to Scott, who I have been with for about 4 years.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott takes the time to discuss the effect the news has on the markets and explains the charts and graphs in my annual review. Then we discussed my situation and short- and long-term plans. I then have a clearer picture of how things stand and decisions I might make.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Well, everyone would love large profits! However, in the current climate the fact that SJP manage to keep low risk funds at a safe level during these uncertain times is a benefit.
What could they have done better?
I am perfectly happy with the current situation of my funds.
Scott's reply
Jean, thanks you for the positive review, its much appreciated
Review from verified client
May, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Midlothian
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Initially appointed through my Work Pension
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott has very much helped me understand what I need to do to have an adequate Pension
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Not yet, but a plan is in place
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Scott's reply
Alan, thank you for the positive review, its very much appreciated.
Review from verified client
April, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
When I retired I received a lump sum and a friend told me about St James’s place
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott takes the time to explain everything in layman’s language
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
I am very pleased the way things are going
Scott's reply
Liz, thank you for the kind review, it is appreciated .
Review from verified client
March, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Need to invest savings resulting largely from redundancy payout
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
I have known Scott as a financial adviser for many years,in previous roles as well as with SJP.Largely yes, given my cautious approach to investment.I have always valued his advice and found him very approachable
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Largely yes, given my cautious approach to investment
What could they have done better?
Again, given my cautious approach, hard to say
Scott's reply
Thank you Nick for the positive review, its greatly appreciated.
Review from verified client
March, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Scott took over from my last financial advisor who retired.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Ive had investments from a young age but never really understood what I was paying my money into. Scott took the time to explain how my investments work.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes, I trust Scott and I'm confident that everything Scott is doing for me is the correct choice
What could they have done better?
Nothing, I'm very satisfied with the service that Scott provides
Scott's reply
Thank you Stuart for the positive feedback, its much appreciated.
First impression from a user who is not yet a client
March, 2023
Overall
Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Scott
Met Scott after my business partner referred him as Scott had helped him with with his various pensions, and I had an initial meeting to discuss mine
Scott's reply
Thank you for the kind review, its is appreciated
Review from verified client
March, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I needed advice on my work and personal pensions.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He gave me advice on the best way to fund my pensions, that best suit my needs at this time.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes.
What could they have done better?
Not much. His advice helped me organise funding to my pensions better.
Scott's reply
William, thanks for the great review ..its much appreciated
Review from verified client
January, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Ayrshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
We had savings with Woolwich Building Society, later Barclays, and we were advised to take financial advice from their advisors. At a later stage, Barclays discontinued in-house financial advice, and we continued with Scott Buchanan, who was then our advisor
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He has recommended various investments, to maximise our returns on savings, allowing minimum risk.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
Scott's reply
Douglas/Diana, thanks you for the positive review, its very much appreciated.
Review from verified client
January, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
We were advised by the bank to consider the services of a financial advisor.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott has been our financial advisor for quite some time. We have always found his advice sound and have never had any reasons to doubt it.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Outcomes have been satisfactory especially considering the financial situation at the moment.
Scott's reply
Thank you David for the positive review, Scott
Review from verified client
January, 2023
Overall
Value
Service
Advice
Based in Dunbartonshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I required investment and savings advice following retirement.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott has provided advice and support on how best to invest retirment funds.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
The outcome has been as expected.
What could they have done better?
I am happy with the advice and support provided.
Scott's reply
Thank you for your positive review Marie, its very much appreciated
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
transfer of pensions.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
contacted companies involved kept me involved in all procedures along the way , and was quick and efficient in handling my case.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
yes.
What could they have done better?
not sure.
Scott's reply
Hello Kerr, thanks for this positive review, its much appreciated.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Scott was recommended to me by a family member who had used him and I found him to be a delight to deal with.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He helped to move all my pensions to one manageable place
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes I can log in anytime and see how they are performing.
What could they have done better?
Can’t think of anything Scott was very thorough and methodical and pleasant to deal with.
Scott's reply
Thanks for the great review Yvonne,.its greatly appreciated..
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I wanted to invest a lump sum which was just sitting in a current account.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott has helped me by giving good advice on the best investments suited to me
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Initially yes but unfortunately due to the ongoing conflict in the Ukraine and the current financial situation here they have taken quite a dip.
What could they have done better?
Unfortunately nothing until the current situation is resolved.
Scott's reply
Thanks you Janette..I appreciate the positive Review
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
On retirement I needed financial guidance.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Always available for any financial advice and managing my portfolio.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes.
What could they have done better?
Not applicable.
Scott's reply
Ian, thanks for the positive review, Its appreciated..
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Looking for financial security for retirement.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Full financial review carried out, all pension options discussed, all options clearly explained in full detail.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes partly completed still waiting on other company pension being transferred over to new pension plan.
What could they have done better?
Very happy with the excellent financial advice given, Scott always keeps you up to date with all information received.
Scott's reply
Lesley, Thanks for the positive review, its appreciated
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Scott took over as my adviser for my pension. When he moved from the company I moved with him.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He has given me regular feedback on my pension's performance. He has also been really helpful and clear on my options regarding risk and has given me clear information to allow me to make an informed decision.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
Can't think of anything.
Scott's reply
Thank you Joan for your kind words, and I look forward to helping you again in the near future.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I received a redundancy payment some years ago and an investment was not performing well. I met Scott before he became an IFA through Barclays bank and his advice was invaluable.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He has educated me on the financial markets and has managed my portfolio and my wife's for several years ensuring that they perform in a satisfactory manner.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes in that my investments are healthy despite current difficulties.
What could they have done better?
Nothing that I can think of.
Scott's reply
Ronnie/Moira, thank you for this great review, I look forward to our next meeting (and of course the Tea and rolls n sausage). Thanks again
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I needed someone to sort out my pensions for me.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He gave me financial and pension advice relating to my pension scheme.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
I am more than happy with the outcome.
What could they have done better?
I don't think he could've done any better for me.
Scott's reply
William, thanks for the review its much appreciated, I look forward to our next meeting . thanks again
Review from verified client
September, 2015
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Did not know what to choose.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Clarified my options and helped me choose suitable provider.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Too soon to tell but company has excellent record.
Review from verified client
September, 2015
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I needed some advice on my 2 old pension plans.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Got all the information on both plans and told me what my options were,.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes,,lot happier now.
What could they have done better?
No very clear ,,no issues
Review from verified client
August, 2015
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I received an inheritance from my late fathers estate and my close friend referred Scott to me.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott explained clearly my investment and Income options to me.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Happy with my investment choices, and my income has been significantly improved.
What could they have done better?
Scott took his time and was very patient ,he was clear with his advice and made it easy to understand.
Review from verified client
August, 2015
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
To review some investments and life policies which were maturing and/or needed a decision.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He reviewed the three areas and provided clear advice on each area.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Have a clear way forward.
What could they have done better?
The discussion could have been more succinct.
Review from verified client
July, 2015
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
On retirement I have an occupational pension, a state pension and a modest portfolio. Having met Scott I welcomed the opportunity to have impartial advice on taxation and managing my investments.
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
My being cautious, Scott directed me towards the best short term investments, reference ISA's etc. Kept me updated on my tax situation and monitored my company AVC well being.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes I have. I have just released funds from a three year investment that has produced a suitable growth.
What could they have done better?
Scott looks after me extremely well. I have no comments to make that would result in any improvement as to how he handles my portfolio.
Review from verified client
June, 2015
Overall
Service
Value
Advice
Based in Aberdeenshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Had my pension retirement options and wanted to know what the best option was for me as i didnt understand new pension rules
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Took me through all my options and showed me the best way to take my pension funds and the best options for my other investments
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes and more..not only did I get my pension sorted I got my investments overhauled..
What could they have done better?
No issues
Review from verified client
June, 2015
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Needed to get my old pension plans reviewed and also my life assurance to cover my mortgage
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott contacted all my pension companies and gave me projections of what benefits they may provide and also put in place a new plan to help me reach my retirement goal,also he redone my life assurance cover got me better cover and saved me arounf £15 per month
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
most definately
What could they have done better?
No Complaints
First impression from a user who is not yet a client
December, 2014
Overall
Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Scott
I explained my enquiry, and Scott dealt with it professionally and in a friendly manner too, answering all my questions, he had extensive knowledge of the products and industry, his advice was greatly appreciated
Review from verified client
December, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott is always available for advice whether on the phone or in person. He regularly comes to our home. His advice has been invaluable to us.
What could they have done better?
If anything at all he could possibly explain things in more layman terms.
Review from verified client
November, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Renfrewshire
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He is approachable and friendly. He has the knowledge and expertise required to give sound advice. He has given us a range of products on to suit our admittedly "cautious" approach and our investments are making gradual and safe progress.
What could they have done better?
Nothing up to now. He has kept us informed regularly and met all deadlines for reviews etc.
Review from verified client
November, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Midlothian
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
He takes account of my opinions when recommending investments to me. He is very clear on the risk levels involved.
What could they have done better?
I am quite happy with his advice.
Review from verified client
November, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Dunbartonshire
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Over the past five years, the results of Scott's advice and guidance has proved to be exactly what he told us it would be. In today's climate of austerity we feel that Scott has achieved very successful results for our investments. We have since re-invested the proceeds with him as we have faith in his guidance. He also keeps regular contact and updates us as is necessary.
Review from verified client
November, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott is very much hands-on when dealing with my financial affairs and always phones me when something happens that might affect my investments. He has arranged for me to take an adequate income from my investments while still protecting the capital and has arranged my property tax position to minimise any impact on my children. I am very pleased with his professional service.
What could they have done better?
He can sometimes be a little verbose on the phone (sorry Scott, but the Website asked for this).
Review from verified client
November, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott speaks in terms I understand and avoids all the financial jargon that can confuse . An adviser from a previous situation was as elusive as a Yeti when it came to getting updates etc. once I had taken out the plan, not so Scott , he keeps in contact through emails, phone calls and appointments to keep you up to date with your plans , upgrading or amending on your say so as and when required . Always seems to have his finger on the pulse . I'd find it nigh on impossible to find fault with Scott .
Review from verified client
November, 2014
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Lanarkshire
How has Scott Buchanan helped you?
Scott provided comprehensive, easy to understand advice to assist me in pension planning.