Chris Bowmer

Review from verified client

May, 2023

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

Was always on our minds and with a recent death in the family it became more relevant.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

In many way. Explaining our options with diligence and a clarity that has been reassuring.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Happy with the outcome to date.

Chris's reply

Asil Many thanks for taking the time to do this review for us, fingers crossed that the work on the Trusts is now done and your issues will be overcome. All the best this year for work and louise's job.... Chris

Review from verified client

April, 2023

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

Looming retirement

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Pulled all my financial data together and supplied and easily understood plan.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so, yes.

What could they have done better?

For me no, they did everything I wanted.

Chris's reply

Thanks for taking the time to do a review for us Derek, much appreciated. I'm really pleased we were able to help in your retirement abroad, seems like a better plan every time I look out at the rain. Although our meetings are now on Zoom its been great getting to know you over the years, hopefully you and Richard will continue to get on well in future.

Review from verified client

April, 2023

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

Retirement was looming.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Both financially and personally as he has built my confidence and understanding.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Chris's reply

Thanks for taking the time to do a review Mary hopefully your feedback will help - although clearly we should not really have asked my cousin to offer her recommendations...

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Inherited assets on the death of both of my parents 1999/2002

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Since that time, for over twenty years, Chris has been my financial adviser, looking after my investments and savings and pensions and also a trust which was set up for the benefit of my three adult children. We have had regular meetings to discuss my financial affairs and Chris is consistently clear, explains any changes or concerns, discusses future projections and is always reassuringly helpful and kind.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. I have no reservations.

What could they have done better?

I am very happy with the service provided.

Chris's reply

Thanks Helen for taking the time to prepare a review, sometimes this work can seem excessive and I suspect we will ask for more feedback - especially when you have been so nice. I hope that all we do will continue to give you the confidence to live your best life, hope the hip is nearly back to normal. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

My adviser at the time was moving to another profession and I needed a replacement

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris made a plan for my finances at that time together with one for the medium and long term. All the advice which I have received has been presented clearly and in plain English which allowed me to make informed decisions. My questions were answered in a way which gave me a clear understanding of what I was committing to.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have. Thanks to the plan and how it has evolved this has allowed me to enjoy a very comfortable living.

What could they have done better?

I am very satisfied with how professionally all things are done.

Chris's reply

Pamela, thanks for taking the time to provide us with a review, nice to see that you have time for such things now you have finally stopped work. I know I have pestered you over the last few years to stop, but I do appreciate that doing a job you love has its attractions. I hope the planning we have done has given you the confidence to be sure you will have 'enough' going forward. All the best Chris.

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Previous financial advisor retired. I knew that Chris Bowmer was setting up a financial services company. I knew of Chris & believed him to be a man of integrity. I had a long term health condition, could only work part time & needed to manage my savings to provide an income for my remaining years given that I could not expect to be working full- time.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris Bowmer has advised & made investments on my behalf which have topped up my earnings & enabled me to look forward to a good retirement income for my needs. His planning has allowed me access to lump sums sufficient to spend on holidays & other one-off purchases or expenses. Chris’ planning has taken away the fear of ageing & left me with reassurance that I have enough.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes indeed & more than I’d hoped for.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

Chris's reply

Kathy Thanks for doing this for us, and for all the things you have done for and with my Mum over the years. I hope that the financial confidence to live well, brings you good health going forward, and good luck with it all. See you soon. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Planning for the future with changes of employment.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

He has given us a structured approach to our investments and forward planning as we are now both living on pensions mainly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Chris's reply

Dermot Thanks for spending the time to provide us with a review, I know you continue to be busy. Richard always reports back to me on how well the meetings with you have gone - hopefully its all true... Best wishes and good luck. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I find everything to do with finances a bit stressful, and need people to explain things simply to me. My previous adviser was good at his job, but struggled to communicate in plain English.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris is calm, sensible and above all clear. His advice is easy to follow and understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but the markets haven't been favourable, and it's a long-term strategy, not a quick fix.

Chris's reply

Cathy I know we are newly into our, hopefully, long term relationship but I have enjoyed dealing with you so far as although your situation could be considered complex - what with all the changing pension rules - you always pay attention and are clear about what you want - even if it can be hard to work out what to do. Thank you for providing us with a lovely review. As we approach those critical choices about work (and not) I am confident that we will find a route to give you the clarity and confidence you need to live the best way you can in an uncertain future. Good luck and no doubt speak soon. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Widowed and had money to invest

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

With investments and ensuring my income is sufficient to support day to day living

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Chris's reply

Sandra I know its been a long time since we first met after the sad death of your husband and things are pretty stable now, its nice for us to keep it all going for you. I really appreciate the time you have taken to complete a review. In future you will be in the safe hands of Richard but I hope we will talk again from time to time, if needed. All the best and good luck. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Long term financial and investment planning.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Great support for planning and decision making, an excellent and trustworthy service.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Chris's reply

Thanks Ashley for sparing the time to do us a review, especially whilst you are still probably jet setting around the world. I hope that what we can do in terms of tax saving and future proofing will give you the opportunity to do the things you want as the family gets older and you actually start to think about that stopping work thing. Clarity, confidence and comfort are the things... In the meantime we will be here to help you with the critical (or simple) decision needed. Best wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I was retiring and downsizing and needed financial advice.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

I have known Chris for over 20 years and his advice has always been appreciated.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, as good as it could be after all the upheavals since 2002.

What could they have done better?

Not sure

Chris's reply

Ian All those years ago, remember when you were still working!! So much water under the bridge. Anyway thank you for sparing the time to provide the review, we all really appreciate it. May I wish you many years of U3A and good health. Best wishes Chris.

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I was widowed and needed help investing life assurance.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Helped with investments and pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Chris's reply

Sarah Thanks for sparing the time to do us a review, we really appreciate it. I know we have seen you through some ups and downs since we met, but hopefully it will all be smooth from here - you deserve it to be. I hope our expertise in bereavement and the issues it brings were helpful, sadly I have seen a few more since back then but I guess it all adds to the experience and expertise. All the best. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Needing to move a variety of pensions into one pot

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Orgaised all our finances ready for our retirement and thereafter.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes apart from the financial collapse (as I see it) since Covid.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Chris's reply

Charles Thanks for talking the time to do us a review, easier now you have stopped working? We really appreciate it. I know our meetings usually go on a bit but I am comfortable that where we need to explain stuff in detail we can and should be doing this - I also know that what we do it out of the ordinary for most people so will be challenging. We want you to get clarity, comfort and confidence so that is always our hope. Best wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

First met Chris in 2007 to ask for advice on whether I should take my company pension early. We had a very long meeting and discussed lifetime plans and goals.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris made everything easier to understand and provided a very detailed report containing plenty of recommendations to help meet future requirements.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It has been interesting over ongoing meetings to check progress on investments even though the market has not always performed exactly as I would have liked.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I have been very pleased with Chris & the whole Fortitude Team.

Chris's reply

Mike Thanks for sparing the time to do us a review, we all really appreciate it. I know investment in particular can be challenging but we still hope to bring you comfort, confidence and control in your lives. I hope that your meetings with Richard will continue to be interesting and useful. Best wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I had money to be invested for myself and my daughters future.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Guided me through the process and has been there to answer any questions I have.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Chris's reply

Jackie Thanks for sparing the time to prepare a review, we really appreciate it - and you did not even mention biscuits. I know that after all this time your position is secure but we have needed to manage some difficult situations and decisions, I hope that I have always done this with clarity and good(ish) humour... See you again soon. Best wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Guidance

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Collated all our information and made sense of it.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Chris's reply

Thanks Emma for doing us a review we really appreciate it. I know the situation can be tricky and a few of the things we do with you are complex I hope I have managed to give some clarity along with the difficult. Good luck with Mum and Dad and I'm sure that we will talk about many things over again without resolving the problems in the world. Look forward to seeing you again soon. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I originally looked for an advisor in the early 1990's. I had started a business and I wanted to make sure that I could build for a future pension. Prior to this point, I had only limited provision. Many years later, I sold the business and then I needed advice on how to invest the proceeds.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris has helped me in many ways. As a highly experienced professional, I know that I can rely on his wise council. His particular skill is in making financial concepts understandable to the lay person. Given the complexity of some financial arrangements, this is no mean feat! He has also helped me to concentrate on outcomes, rather than the mechanics of financial transactions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. With Chris's help, I have been able to build and secure a financial position for myself and my family.

What could they have done better?

Honestly, I can't think of any area where he could do better. He has excellent back-up staff, who are always helpful and pro-active.

Chris's reply

Nick Many thanks for sparing the time to do a review. Its been a long time since you sold the business and the world has been through a few things since then - 2008 was no fun - but we see the swings and roundabouts and gradually realise that the world goes on. Our hope is that we bring comfort, confidence and control - and on a good day clarity - it feels to me we are there and its now a matter of bringing this to your children too. Bes wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

While still working: having several legacy closed pension pots that needed to be assessed and advice given whether to consolidate or leave as they were. This included advice on the methods of taking pension income on retirement. Approaching retirement: assessment of financial requirements and draw down of pension income needed.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

He has given advice to me as above, but also to myself and my husband on financial planning based on our joint assets and separate pensions. This directly enabled me to envisage retiring at a desired age, with a tax efficient pension draw down.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Chris's reply

Siobhan Thanks for doing a review, we really appreciate it. I've really enjoyed dealing with you both, having spent so many years talking to Mark it was fun bringing extra complexity of a partner whilst still talking about planes (probably less than I did tbh). It seems to me that the whole process has given you a new perspective on what pensions do and how it works but its great to see you clearly happier no longer working!! Best wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Setting up my own business.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

In most areas of financial advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

This has been ongoing but certainly all is on track.

What could they have done better?

Earlier contact would have been beneficial.

Chris's reply

Martin Thanks for sparing the time to do us a review, always important for a small business, we really appreciate it. We have known each other a long time but as that whole stopping work things gets closer it does put the pressure on a bit. I do obviously have my fingers crossed regularly. Look forward to seeing you again soon. Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Knowing I had a trusted expert to look after my affairs.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Has given me confidence in all that he does for us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely

What could they have done better?

I am very happy with everything they have done.

Chris's reply

Adele Thank you for sparing the time to do us a review, we really appreciate it - especially when you say nice things. We have known each other through multiple house moves, stock market crashes and many changes as well as a few Zoom meetings now you have moved into darkest Cornwall. Through it all I hope we have brought comfort, confidence and control - as that is our plan... Best wishes Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I came to Chris when I was working as a contractor and needed to put pension provision in place

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris helped to consolidate my scattered pensions and set up a robust investment portfolio.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes have been more than expectations

What could they have done better?

Nothing much

Chris's reply

Linda Linda - Thanks for sparing the time to do us a review, we really appreciate it. We have know each other along time since your Accountant introduced us and during that time we have had complexity around the business and IR35 as well as pensions and investments but I hope between us Bob and I have helped. Now as we approach the next bits with the hope for David to retire ant some point and moving on with your other busy post work lives I still want to bring comfort, confidence and control as we move on - even as the world around us has its issues. See you soon Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Chris looked after my parents' finances, then when they died he looked after my finances. He has advised me well and my resulting financial situation is very healthy.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Advice and action regarding investments, savings, pensions and inheritance planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Chris's reply

Moira Thanks for sparing the time to do us a review, we really appreciate it. Goodness haven't the ups and downs since we first met been tricky. I know the rollercoaster of those many years have been sometimes difficult for you but I hope I have been able to help. Going forward our goal continues to be comfort, confidence and control - with the hope I can give some of this to Sarah too... Best wishes Chris.

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I inherited a large sum of money and was recommended to use Chris.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris has made sure his advice matches my risk profile and spending requirements, rather than being one of a few 'standard' options. He has also made sure that I am getting low fees with the financial investments. His annual reviews with me are very thorough and clear to me, giving me confidence about my financial security.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely. Chris' financial planning has worked well for me, with resilience during downturns.

What could they have done better?

It has all gone very well

Chris's reply

John Its been great knowing you and helping with your financial things over all the years. I really appreciate the effort to provide us with a review. I hope that in future Richard will enjoy the meetings with you as much as I have. Hopefully the Alfa will be as reliable as I expect! Good luck and best wishes - Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Future planning Trusting an advisor

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Sound advice Trustworthy Honest

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yea I think we have in view of the financial state of the country .

What could they have done better?

Nil

Chris's reply

Thanks Alison for doing a review for us, we really appreciate the feedback. We want to help wherever we can so don't hesitate to contact me. I know that sometimes that can be difficult. All the best - Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Loo of my Equitable Life pension

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Taking over my pension and investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Not sure

Chris's reply

Mark Thanks you for sparing the time to prepare a review for us, now you are no longer working perhaps there is more to spare? Your retirement plans included a wide range of things and was most interesting for me, hopefully the best is now ahead. I think you know that you can feel free always to come back with questions or issues. Best Wishes - Chris

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I felt my previous different advisors always advised me to change investments - so they could warn commission. So I changed to and advisor who charged a flat fee.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Consolidated pensions, over 14 years has met the financial growth targets overall. Answers my questions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Not aware of anything.

Chris's reply

Mike Thanks for spending the time to do us a review, its really appreciated. As you know complex retirement planning strategies are our speciality, I must say yours was of the more complex. I'm sorry that our times have include such sad ones. As always we promise to be there through everything. Best wishes - Chris

Repeat review from verified client

February, 2020

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

How has Chris Bowmer helped you since your last review?

As usual, provided superb management of our funds, clear statement of the current status of our funds and, amazing advice on our future financial plans.

Repeat review from verified client

December, 2019

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

How has Chris Bowmer helped you since your last review?

Chris is helping with plan for retirement, he has formulated a plan and continues to contact to ensure progress is being maintained

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2019

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

How has Chris Bowmer helped you since your last review?

He and his team continue to give superlative advice and support. Through the ups and downs of the markets he has managed our funds faultlessly. I really feel that I can trust him to do the best for me.

Review from verified client

November, 2017

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

I became self employed.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

He was open and honest about my financial options and provided me with confidence in making the right decisions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Ye I have.

What could they have done better?

Nothing other than just to keep doing what he is already doing to ensure excellent customer service and satisfaction

Review from verified client

July, 2017

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

I wanted someone I could trust and who shared my view of pensions and Investments.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris took the time to listen and understand my personal situation and my objectives.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Its very early days but I am very happy with the outcome so far.

What could they have done better?

Nothing in my opinion

Review from verified client

July, 2017

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

Required advice on defined benefit pension and transfer of same.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Undertook full review of circumstances and provided a number of porential solutions to meet our ongoing needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

July, 2017

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

Inheritance.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Investment planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I feel comfortable that future is in good hands.

What could they have done better?

I believe Chris is fantastic at his job and has and continues to provide sound advice that enables me to live my current lifestyle and plan for the future without any worry. He is honest, approachable and very knowledgable. I am very glad I have him as my financial adviser and would recommend his services to anyone.

Review from verified client

July, 2017

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

Investment of money and financial planning.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris took time to assess wanted I wanted to achieve and how to achieve it. He has talked me through a detailed plan ensuring that I understood everything. We meet regularly to ensure that goals are being met and to discuss any future adjustments that may be required. Importantly Chris is a great listener and problem solver. He provides a thorough service and clearly the client is the focus.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been extremely happy with the recommendations made by Chris, his attention to detail and thoroughness in everything he does. I have not found anything I think could have been done better and would highly recommend him.

Review from verified client

August, 2016

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

Husband's death and inheritance.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Clarified my existing financial position Accertained my needs and attitude to risk Put together a financial plan that I could understand Projected my financial position for 30 years in various scenarios.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely!.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

August, 2016

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

Our previous adviser retired.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Reallocated our investments and gave helpful advice regarding the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too soon to effectively monitor the progress.

Review from verified client

August, 2016

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

My late husband was recommended to see Chris when he went self employed and needed advice I saw no reason to change.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

He looks after my money and knows more about than I do . I rest easier knowing it is in safe hands.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

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

finances.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

progressing.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

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

I needed pensions advice when I joined a company without a scheme.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Totally reviewed my life plans and finances. Set me up with a stakeholder pension. Enabled me and my wife to benefit from various state and private pension arrangements which I would never have been able to do myself. Consolidated our various ISAs. Most important, he took away the worry of managing my finances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes.

What could they have done better?

Difficult to say.

Review from verified client

July, 2016

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

needed help with our investments.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

by his professional attitude and explaining the advantages and the pit falls of investments in a clear way.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we are very pleased and our investments have grown over the period of our relationship.

What could they have done better?

Our Financial Advisor is a member of a professional organisation and we cannot see any area that he could have advised us better

Review from verified client

July, 2016

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

Coming up to 65 so needed advice on Pensions life insurance.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

I have been dealing with Chris Bowmer for 20 years so he knows my situation pretty well and my goals.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes have discussed all areas of Investments and savings and Cashflow in the years ahead.

What could they have done better?

Looking ahead and reviewing when it would be advantageous for me to take out my pension withdrawals and would ISA's still be the best way of saving for the future

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Retired from the Royal Air Force and set up my own business. Long experience of poor financial advice. Needed good, effective service with clear, transparent terms of business.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

We planned together and constructed an investment strategy that was simple to understand and tailored exactly to our needs. Through our regular review sessions I feel I am in control of my investments and that the advice Chris give me is intelligent and focused on getting the best returns in a highly volatile market. We have consistently out-performed the FTSE when other investment schemes have floundered.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The customer service and results achieved are second to none!.

What could they have done better?

I have been with Chris since 2004. He is the ideal financial advisor. I feel as if I am in partnership with him

Review from verified client

January, 2016

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

Once my assets reached a certain level I felt that I needed an adviser to act as a sounding board, provide tools and expertise to assist with longer-term planning and to access suitable investment vehicles.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Working with Chris helped us to view or financial position in a longer-term context and model the consequences of key decisions. He also helped us identify suitable protection arrangements and facilitated our investment in appropriate investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am quite satisfied with outcomes so far. The investments we have made since working with Chris have performed relatively well and he has helped us arrive at a number of important decisions. I also appreciate the flexibility he shows to his clients - always responsive and available to bounce something off him at any time.

What could they have done better?

I have no specific suggestions for improvement at this stage, it has all worked well for me.

Review from verified client

January, 2016

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

Needed financial advice for management of assets and planning for and of retirement.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

understood our situations, listened to our wants and offered solutions in an understandable manner with recommendations. Was always available even when we were abroad and held our hand when some unexpected problems occurred.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. His advice was always clear and proved very beneficial both financially and peace of mind wise. We feel we have excellent value for money.

Review from verified client

December, 2015

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

Banks desperately try to sell their services but the people change very often invariably the advice given suits them better than their client.

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Very approachable, very thorough, very reliable and there for the long term, takes great trouble to find the products that work for you, without picking products which earn good commision.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Ours is a long term commitment and is monitored regularly, to best as possible ensure a good outcome.

What could they have done better?

I feel that Chris has done everything in his power to offer the best advise and am very happy to entrust our finances to him

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris has a very pleasant manner, plus, a wealth of knowledge over and above what is required for the type of retirement planning I required. He responded to questions fully and each 'concern/worry' was explained in language which I understood.

What could they have done better?

More coffee.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Regular reviews,which takes in all aspects of my financial commitments, in terms of my outgoings and all living expenses. These details are collated before each review . The performance of my pension and other investments are then examined in relation to their performance and any adjustments to the funds are then made taking in the long term view as to my financial requirements. All advise and suggested courses of action,in respect of my investments are always explained clearly and confirmed in writing.

What could they have done better?

An overload of detail at times,I sometimes think this could be perhaps put in more "bullet point form", making it quicker and easier to digest.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris is a patient professional and I have been a very satisfied client for 14years. I first met Chris when he advised at work on a new pension scheme which has done well for all and then again on my retirement advising and setting up my annuity and formulating a financial plan for the future. We meet annually and he adjusts my plan if necessary, to meet my changing needs. He responds quickly to any worries either after my e-mailing him or phoning at no extra cost. He is very good at explaining verbally and through technology how my plan is working. He is always well prepared at reviews and sends written notes on our meetings and reminders of anything we have decided that I need to do. e.g. make a new will. I do not hesitate to recommend Chris and his support team to anyone who needs financial advice.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything he could do better.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Fortitude have a structured approach to financial planning which is very helpful to me in understanding the choices on offer and the decisions to be made. I feel that Chris and his team always put "best advice" before any consideration of income earning opportunities for themselves. Each year I have a clear plan for the next 12 months and an awareness of how that fits with the longer term scenarios that we have discussed.

What could they have done better?

Their data capture and update system could be more user friendly.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

CHRIS IS A VERY GENUINE PERSON WHO HAS GIVEN MY HUSBAND AND I EXCELLENT HELP AND ADVICE FOR 25YEARS. CHRIS IS VERY GOOD AT EXPLANING SO YOU FULLY UNDERSTAND AND STAYS WITH IT TILL HE IS HAPPY THAT YOU DO.

What could they have done better?

NOTHING DIFFERENT TO WHAT HE IS DOING NOW.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Both my wife and I join our Advisor once a year for a very thorough audit of all things financial. What for many could be rather boring, the meeting is extremely valuable and rather interesting! It gives us high quality, expert time to review where we are and what our family wants to do in terms of financial planning. The fore-casting and "what if" scenarios that we consider are very valuable in plotting a way forward and ensuring that our financial plans provide us with the mix of security and flexibility that we desire. An important element I think is the depth of knowledge and understanding and experience of each other that we have built up with our advisor over several years. I don't think a IFA relationship will work very well if it is short-term. It becomes a valuable investment in itself - just as much as getting a good return inflation-beating returns on savings investments.

What could they have done better?

I'd suggest (i) for long-standing, loyal clients, an interim bullet-point (6 monthly) update to confirm actions completed and all is on track as per the more formal joint meeting; (ii) a cap on fees; (iii) discussion with parents on a more formal attention to Childrens' accounts and possibly a threshold that once they reach the age of 21 they receive their own statement of advice and financial planning activity.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

I have always found Chris to be very informed and easy to talk to and communicates well with the use of modern technology. Over the years Chris has consolidated a number of pensions into my current personal pension. He has also helped me put in place protection for my family. On a separate matter I am a Trustee of a Church Trust Fund and Chris advises the Trustees.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris listens intently to ensure he fully understands my personal investment objectives, we discuss options based around my current risk profile and following our conversations, he provides a clear implementation plan. Compared with my peers using other advisers, I believe a key element of his advice is tax planning. The support offered by Fortitude's team in the office is also excellent. I would have no hesitation in recommending Chris to provide Financial Planning, whatever your circumstance.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Listens; thinks; responds quickly to enquiries. Prepares well - and is well-informed. Endlessly patient in explaining technical terms to non-experts. Works as part of a welcoming, professional team.

What could they have done better?

An annual self-evaluation of performance against reasonable expectations.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Our extended family have been using Chris's services for over ten years. Chris always gives an honest review of your options, supported by his recommendations. We would always give those looking for financial advise the contact details for Chris!

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything particulary

Review from verified client

December, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris provides complete financial advice with future possibilities taken into account showing all possible outcomes & this is regularly reviewed so it can be rebalanced when necessary or as circumstances change. He also makes financial complexities far easier to understand.

Review from verified client

December, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Gives a full view of our current financial situation and probable future cases bearing in mind the goals we have set (always moving or course). He clearly explains our both our personal position and also an appreciation of the global conditions in a way that we, with our limited expertise, can understand. Everything is conducted in a polite, efficient and professional manner but also in a relaxed manner. Chris was recommended to us and we have recommended him to others and would do so again without hesitation.

What could they have done better?

We are really happy with what is done for us and currently see nothing which could be improved.

Review from verified client

December, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

The most important thing is that Chris takes the time to understand what I want and leaves me confident that we have planned and made decisions as well as possible. He and his office respond to all calls or enquiries incredibly quickly. They make you feel like a valued client.

What could they have done better?

During the year, there are often reports in the news about changes or proposed changes to regulations - especially regarding pensions. Fortitude could provide more frequent updates about what these mean and their relevance.

Review from verified client

August, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Lays things out clearly for us. Will answer what must be to him basic questions about finance with patience and clarity. Is always well prepared for our meetings. Takes a personal interest in our lives outside financial matters, and on how other interests might impact on finances. Is trustworthy and reliable.

Review from verified client

August, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

Chris 'tailor makes' his advice and recommendations to our individual needs. He listens to our worries and concerns.

Review from verified client

February, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

After many years I have found an adviser that I trust. Everything is extremely clear including planning options and costs. The performance of our investments has met all our expectations. What more could one wish for!

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of any improvements in the service provided apart from executive, massaging leather chairs in Chris's office for visiting clients!

Review from verified client

February, 2013

How has Chris Bowmer helped you?

I trust my adviser completely, but everybody at Fortitude is helpful and efficient. They always do what they say they will. Complete faith in this company, they are pro-active not re-active. Cannot praise them highly enough.