Phil O'Connor

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Pension sharing as part of my divorce proceedings

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil is friendly, extremely knowledgeable and provides a very professional service.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing!

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Phil

Quick to respond to query, very helpful, down to earth and knowledgeable. Would be more than happy to use service again in the future.

Review from verified client

April, 2018

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

to invest my pension.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

he talked me through everything.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

got no imformation yet.

What could they have done better?

keep more in touch maybe statments

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Phil

Initial discussion held and follow up meeting scheduled at mutual convenience. Limited experience to date but favourable first impression .

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

During an investigation into fraud where I was about to lose my pension entitlement due to forgery and subsequent lack of interest from the police and solicitors, I was recommended to contact Phil O'Connor for advice.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil supported me 100%, I sent him all the documentation I had (lots of it!) and he waded through and got up to speed with the status. He has was the first person who really empathised as he could see the injustice and was equally outraged by the whole situation. After 5 years of struggling with this case on my own Phil came through with the encouragement that I needed, he explained areas that was not familiar, picked up on things that I had not, and also wrote emails to those involved to back me up. The case ultimately went to the Ombudsman and after appeal I got my entitlement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I know this is different to the normal service of financial advice, but this feedback is about the integrity and compassion of one guy, who gave me so much support it made me cry ... all pro bono.

What could they have done better?

Phil O'Connor is a star.

Review from verified client

March, 2017

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

After enduring many years of paying high fees to at best average fund managers and others in the financial services sector who appear to put their own self-interest and self-enrichment before that of their customers, I decided to take control over my own investments. I was looking for a truly independent and qualified financial adviser who would be able to offer me real objective advice rather than a ‘wealth manager’ who simply wanted me to invest more through their company.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I selected Phil based on recommendations from some of his other clients. Phil shares many of my views on low cost passive investing and has helped me identify where my existing monies are invested and map out a strategy that suits my preferred style, attitude to risk and longer term objectives. He is easy to talk to, responsive and it’s good to know that I can call upon him as and when needed for specific advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is early days but I am happy with the recommendations Phil has made. I am now clearer on where I should invest my money and feel more confident in my own decision making.

Review from verified client

March, 2017

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

NHS employee who required advice around LTA's and Pension.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Arranged LTA protection and gave advice re timing of retirement and it's effect on pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very pleased.

What could they have done better?

Nothing to add

Review from verified client

June, 2016

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

My ex-wife and I wanted help and advice with the preparation of a financial agreement and the fair division of assets including 3 pensions as part of a consent order to support our divorce .

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He helped prepare a table of figures showing various options how we could divide our total assets taking into account a good balance of property, capital savings and potential income from annuities.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes we were able to reach a financial agreement and eventually divorced through mutual cooperation.

What could they have done better?

He fully met our expectations and maintained a neutral position throughout despite the delicacy of the situation.

Review from verified client

June, 2016

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

I needed help and advice in regard to approaching retirement,and inheritance tax planning,as well as our investments and Mr.O Connor was recommended by my accountant.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

My wife and I had a thorough and helpful review of our finances,and we were given time to discuss our needs and wishes.This was followed by annual reviews.However Phil has always been accessible on the,phone for any query or concern.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes,very much so.

What could they have done better?

I truly cannot think of anything.

Review from verified client

May, 2016

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

Need to find pension provider due to getting share of husbands pension after divorce.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Spoke to me at length several times on the telephone. Undertook risk assessments with me. Was very thorough.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I believe so. Time will tell more.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

To understand what pension products I have/had; what my options were in respect of annuities; the optimum time to draw any annuities; the best profile for my savings.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I thought I understood the products I had/have and what best to do with them. I didn't. Phil highlighted which had guaranteed annuity rates, which did not and mapped a strategy for maximizing the benefit from those in accord with my attitude to risk and overall retirement strategy. He reviewed my portfolio of savings and investments and some were repositioned; again in accord with my risk profile. His fees are clear and the rationale underlying his advice was explained very well. He challenged some of my long held views which was refreshing. I have since realigned some of those views.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Retirement is still 2 years away but so far so good.

What could they have done better?

From the meetings we have had thus far, nothing. He is approachable, listens well and acts promptly. He does what he says he's going to do and does when he says he going to do it.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

There has been a lot of changes in the NHS pension scheme. Having worked in the NHS for more than 36 years and with the several changes taking place,I had planned to take early retirement.It was daunting for me, as there is only one chance to get it right.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I had provided Phil with allthe necessary paper works regarding my NHS pension. What impressed me was at our meeting ,he had gone through my paperwork, had the patience of going through the NHS pension scheme which is a minefield, explaining the financial jargons in simple language,the pros and cons, helped me to fill up the NHS retirement scheme application form. Phil also gave advice about the AVC pension scheme.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

At the end of the meeting , I was happy with my arrangements of my pension. The professional advice given has saved time and provided the peace of mind.

What could they have done better?

I do not have anything more to add for the service rendered. It was excellent.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Previous bad experience elsewhere + advice from a friend that Phil O'Connor is good and trustworthy made me seek him out and make my own decision. In the event, he has proven himself to be excellent and I am delighted I moved my Pension business to his IFA business entity.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Firstly, he listened to the story of my previous bad experience (which included an IFA and a very large insurance company - neither of which I would recommend). Then he explained my options, clearly and devoid of jargon. Following that, we worked out a course of action. Importantly, he provided me with the peace of mind that my Pension matters were now in good hands.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My fund behaved in a way that pleased me, under his guidance. More recently, the fund has fared less well - but I attribute that to the market and is not adverse reflection on Phil's abilities.

What could they have done better?

I would be hard pressed to state what improvements I would seek in working with Phil. Put simply: I am a happy client.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Wanting to understand more about how and when we save and spend and best options for saving.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Knowledge of range of products. Forecast planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

I am going through a divorce and I needed to know how to work out my financial position for the future.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He gave me an overview and advice about how to take charge of my own affairs going forward. He showed me in detail that I need not worry about the future. He offered further advice once I had more information.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes: at this point there was not a great deal that Phil could do - but I appreciated that he told me that honestly and did not try to oversell products. He has contacted me since to see if he can be of further help and I know that I will turn to him again when the time is right.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all - I was very satisfied. He went over and above and actually inspired me to look at my life very differently and to start assessing what I wanted long and short term and how to achieve those goals.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Quality professional advice. Good listener and realistic, on your side.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

With pension planning and investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, provided peace of mind.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Needed to invest lump sum from business.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Gave me easy to understand go advice over the years.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes good returns over years.

What could they have done better?

difficult to say as have used , talked to few other advisors.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Pension advice.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil took time to understand what I was trying to achieve especially as it related to an occupational pension transfer. Even though I am an experienced financial adviser (who chose not to be authorised in this area) Phil still made sure I understood what I was doing and the implications. I was very confident in his knowledge and ability!.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely!.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

I wanted to construct a financial plan to help determine key decisions such as retirement age and investment strategy.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil developed a personalised financial plan (with multiple scenarios) in a very easy and approachable way. He helped me understand key assumptions and any key risks.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I was delighted with the outcome - so much so, that I decided to retire early and change my life style within 6 months of reviewing my finances with Phil.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really - i was delighted with the advice and support I received.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

Planning for the future.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He dealt with me professionally & was very friendly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

April, 2016

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

As an accountant I often get asked by clients to recommend an IFA. Feedback from clients who I have referred on to Phil O'Connor has been very positive.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He has helped clients mainly on pension related issues.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

No weaknesses

Review from verified client

December, 2015

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

My divorce prompted a renewed search for someone who knew their stuff, was easy to work with and who I could trust.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil was able to understand my situation and provide understandable and helpful advice and support - and respond quickly when needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, he is exactly what I needed.

What could they have done better?

I can't think how he could have done any better.

Review from verified client

December, 2015

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

My Mother found Phil O'Connor when looking for an IFA to provide advice through her divorce. Sadly she has recently passed away so I am writing this review on behalf of her, myself and my brother.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil and his PA Linda were exceptionally supportive during my Mother's three year divorce. Phil was patient when explaining her options and gave sound advice which provided her with financial security for her retirement. Unfortunately following the divorce she was diagnosed with cancer. Phil acted quickly in advising her on where best to place her money in order to provide her with an income during treatment. He also broached the topic of inheritance planning with great sensitivity. Sadly our Mother passed away recently and it is down to Phil's excellent advice that my brother and I are left financially secure, able to purchase our own property and have personal savings. Being young people, only in our early twenties, with no other family to support us, we are hugely grateful to Phil for everything he has done for our family. Phil and Linda have been outstanding, responding efficiently, willing to take calls out of hours and seek advice from trusted specialists when necessary.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Thank you Phil and Linda for all your advice and support. We are thrilled to recommend Whitewell Financial Planning.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2015

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Phil

Very professional and gave a clear indication of what services he offered. Listened very carefully to our situation and advised us appropriately. Would highly recommend to others.

Review from verified client

October, 2015

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

Comfort and reassurance that I was making the right decision for my future.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Guided my through what I should be looking for and took away the stress of me doing an annuity search myself.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am now in receipt of my pension payments and my lump sum is in the bank; yes this was the outcome I was hoping for.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, excellent service.

Review from verified client

September, 2015

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

Advise on pension and retirement plans.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Very helpful, and explained all options in a clear and precise manner.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Pension plan has now been sorted, and the outcome is as envisaged.

What could they have done better?

Everything was as required.

Review from verified client

August, 2015

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

We wanted to change our previous adviser due to some very bad investment advice and our accountants suggested we speak with Phil O'Connor.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He looked through our pension portfolio and although some of the investments were performing others were not. Phil then sent us a series of questions that indicated to him our approach to risk in investments then advised us which way we should go.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

At present we are awaiting information from the previous pension trustees before we can proceed, but already Phil has advised us to and has cancelled certain monthly outgoings that were of no relevance to our overall pension fund thus saving us money each month, not a bad start.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, at present everything is set ready to be taken forward.

Review from verified client

August, 2015

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

I needed a financial adviser to assist me in the financial settlement of my divorce.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He was absolutely brilliant and gave me excellent advice and all the help that I needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am currently awaiting the court hearing for the financial dispute resolution but now feel very confident of receiving a fair settlement thanks to the invaluable help and advice I received from Phil O'Connor.

What could they have done better?

Absolutely nothing he could have done better.

Review from verified client

July, 2015

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

I was looking for critical health insurance.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He found me the best policy to suit my needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Thankfully, I've had no need for it.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

July, 2015

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

I required unbiased assistance with a pension sharing order and wanted to take advantage of the new pension law.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil was very professional, very patient and explained my options. He guided me at each step of the way and was available to answer any questions I had.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am a 55 year old single working adult, the outcome was exactly as I hoped for.

What could they have done better?

I am satisfied with the service I received and would recommend Phil to friends and relatives.

Review from verified client

July, 2015

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

Heading towards retirement and reducing my working week to 3 days in conjunction with trying to decide whether to take 1 of my pensions now or at a later date.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil....listened to what I had to say and what I thought were my best options. He then considered my current and future needs in conjunction with reviewing my pension entitlements etc. Phil then provided me with options that I didn't know existed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes all is good.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Divorce

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Pension especially, but holistic view of finances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the outcome was satisfactory. I will see him again when I need my next 'check up'.

What could they have done better?

Nothing comes to mind.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

An early Retirement from business...that required activation and accumulation of pensions , moreover a detailed fiscal plan for a period in excess of twenty years.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Helped me with understanding the finer points of pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Retired now for over a six year period ...and yes I have achieved the outcome I was anticipating

What could they have done better?

Financial advisers at times can become reactive rather than proactive. Thankfully, Phil o Connor has always managed to demonstrate an innovative and detailed approach embracing the latest technology that explains complex matters in a simple format.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

I needed assistance to sort out pension transfers following divorce.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil O'Connor sorted out the entire process - I just handed over the relevant documents and everything was done for me. He gave clear, easily understandable explanations and he, or someone on his team, was always available to answer queries. A complex process was handled in a timely and efficient manner.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The pension transfers went through smoothly and I am completely happy with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

I was entirely happy with the way in which my matter was handled.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

I needed professional advice regarding my pension

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He provided the help I needed

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I need further help regarding ongoing pension arrangements

What could they have done better?

Respond in a more timely manner . Sometimes I have to prompt for an answer

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Divorce

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I needed help to understand a pension report.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am divorced and have the financial settlement I wanted.

What could they have done better?

Nothing! I am perfectly happy with all the advice and help given to me. I highly recommend Mr O'Connor.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Cash flow, advice about retirement planning.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

litened to my expectations and gave good advice as to how to manage them.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

on-going, delay in processing personal pension transfer. will be reviewing pension/retirement planning in due course.

What could they have done better?

more detailed projected pension income based on current information available. Hopefully this will become apparent within the next year or so?

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Personal advice relating to my pension investments. I also needed a good Financial adviser that I can refer to my clients

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Objectively identified my attitude to risk and advised on a suitable investment strategy based on my risk profile.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Phil is :- * very responsive to my demands * Easy to talk to * Communicates clearly * Patient with me * works efficiently * Acts with integrity * Understands my goals * Understands my attitudes to risk * Very Strong technical knowledge

What could they have done better?

Cut out the amount of regulatory crap that is produced. No one ever reads it in any event.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Needed advice on how to invest and manage my money to secure mine and my families future

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

By offering several different options, all in a friendly, non pushy manner. He really helped me understand how each part worked and what it would mean.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, was very happy with the advice given

What could they have done better?

Was very happy, no suggestions to make

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

I was in need of expert financial advice in respect of my pensions

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He dealt with all matters in respect of the Pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

All Pensions have been dealt with to my satisfaction

What could they have done better?

Mr O'Connor could not have done more as he dealt with all matters in a most professional and expert manner

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

recommendation from family , starting new business and review of pensions

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

explained pros and cons of personal pension helpful with general advice regarding our finances

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

starting new business , still early days, but with phils sound advice the outcome will be good.

What could they have done better?

Could have been in more personal contact throughout my pension scheme

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Retirement pension advice

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Clear advice that a ley person could understand. Know which track to take now

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

still being onging

What could they have done better?

still in meetings at this time and stage

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

My annuity was coming to an end in terms of its fixed period and I needed help to sort out a new one. Also he was helpful in terms of pensions .

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He explained the options to me simply and clearly as to the novice it is a minefield.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I now have an annuity to last my lifetime which is a fixed amount and I can just forget it basically with no need to go through this process again.

What could they have done better?

I don't have any criticism of the service. But think in general the industry needs to cut down the paperwork to the minimum although I appreciate that regulations need to be met in terms of ensuring that customers fully understand what they are signing up for and to.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

I wanted personal financial advice after retiring from business life.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

He offered a service to cover my requiremets. Especially advice YesY

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and even better as he offers most updated systems.

What could they have done better?

I am unable to suggest additions to the service I receive

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

retirement planning, urgently, re Lifetime allowance

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

quick analysis of options

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Coming up to retirement several years ago I wanted confidence that I was investing my money in the most appropriate manner and help to manage my various pensions.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

What impressed me about Phil O'Connor was that he wanted to understand my approach to money and savings. He advised me accordingly and not in a set way to be imposed on me. He helped me understand the relative risks of different tactics and helped work out what my financial requirements were so as to decide on the best options available. He has been available to answer questions at any time they may arise and we arrange for regular reviews at convenient times. He also sends regular newsletters explaining changes in the regulations that might affect me. In particular an explanation of the Budget changes highlighting the important points and their likely impact in an easy to understand fashion was much appreciated. There has always been complete clarity with regard to his charges or fees.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have confidence that my money is invested in such a way that it will cover my requirements for the rest of my life. The investments are doing well for the present financial situation considering my risk level. I am happy with my pension arrangements.

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything I would change in the way Phil deals with me.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Wanting to invest for retirement

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Initially general financial advice followed by saving and investment advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

A comfortable retirement as hoped for

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

I am one the last of the baby boomers and a long term employee in the IT industry on a final salary pension. The continuing Government changes as to how pensions are taxed and the potential consequences to my retirement income made me realize I needed professional advice. Put another way it is far too important to get wrong.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I wanted guidance from Phil as to my all retirement options such I could target the right retirement age for myself , whilst maximizing my retirement income and minimizing my tax burden. This particularly taking into account government pension lifetime allowances ( and constant changes ). Phil produced a report answering all my asks including giving the numbers/calculations to underpin my different scenarios.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

As a consequence of engaging Phil - I am confident in my own mind what I need to do in the final time before I draw my pension AND have the evidence to back it up.

What could they have done better?

Phil met and exceeded my expectations, he is very experienced, he knows what his is doing , I trust him and he has great people skills and empathy .

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Was awarded several pension sharing orders as part of my divorce settlement.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil was excellent he took time to understand my circumstances as it was not straightforward in dealing with the companies regarding the pension sharing order.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I now have all my pension sharing orders sorted out and have new pensions in my name and through Phil's excellent help I am making a healthy growth.

What could they have done better?

From my perspective his service is faultless.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Prudence for the future

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Good solid advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Ongoing

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

My husbands retirement and ill health

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Helped with type of pension to take and consolidating our savings He was both proffessionly and personally very helpful and kind

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My husband passed away two years ago ,,but still handles my investments and is always available with advice when needed

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

I needed pension advice.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil analysed my pension situation and laid out clearly the options available and helped me decide the best course of action.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I took Phil's advice and it has stood the test of time.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Retirement

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Advise on investments and tax planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not prepared to give this type of Info

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, a minor irritation is the volume of back up documentation to options offered for consideration at annual and general reviews

Review from verified client

June, 2015

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

Needed advice and support in implementing a pension sharing order following my divorce.

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Provided advice as to where to invest my pension share (having carried out a full analysis of my financial circumstances and attitude to risk) and then administered the transfer process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - pension sharing order is going through - should be complete by July.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Sorted out pensions sharing that I hadn't done since my divorce ten years earlier

What could they have done better?

I am perfectly happy with service so I don't have any suggestions I am afraid

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I met Phil during my very difficult 5 year divorce case as my solicitor sought his help regarding pension share. He quickly, and clearly analysed the actuarial report and then guided me through the process of putting forward a case to the court. Without him I am quite sure that I would not have received the settlement I did. I met Phil during an incredibly stressful life event and his friendly and professional manner was, and still is incredibly important to me. I was so impressed that, even though I live in Yorkshire, he is now my Financial Advisor and manages my investment wrap of not only pensions but also many of my other investments. The information and guidance I receive gives me complete confidence that my investments are incredibly well managed. The other important point is that they will achieve their full potential within my own personal risk tolerance. This tolerance was calculated via a very detailed questionnaire I completed and we then reviewed together. Phil also mapped out my financial future right through to retirement and beyond. This is an excellent and very flexible tool used by Whitewell Financial Planning for planning life events such as children going to university, a house move or retirement etc. This is based on known and anticipated income and assets and can be quickly adjusted to reflect changes giving me a clear picture of my financial future in graph form. We have regular review meetings and if I ever have questions or queries in the interim, then I just phone as Phil is more than happy to speak to me whenever I need to talk to him. His responses are consistently very quick and and always effective. I do not hesitate to recommend Phil O'Connor.

What could they have done better?

I have nothing I could note here as the service received has been faultless.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil is very thorough and has a good, broad, understanding of issues impacting pension planning. Where he may not have a ready answer he will say so and find out. This includes a willingness to liaise, for example, with your existing providers to clarify issues and, in my case, proved them wrong. He is thoroughly independent and ethical. Easy to talk to and a nice guy. He was also willing to continue to answer questions I had beyond the initial service.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I have been with Phil for several years. He has always been affable, available and able with his dealings with me. I do not follow the financial jargon but he has explained them in terms that I could understand and follow. I am particularly grateful that he could advise me on my retirement date , a decision which I had to bring forward unexpectedly.He was able to show me simply and convincingly using computer screen figures and graphs that I could retire earlier. I have asked him to prepare an ethical investment portfolio . He outlined the possible pitfalls and prepared an extensive literature search for it .His advice during consultations is followed by a document explaining current situation, various paths that can be taken and his own point of view listing risk and benefits. His firm has a chirpy & helpful newsletter. I recommend him to my colleagues , friends and family.

What could they have done better?

I do not think that anything can be done better from my point of view.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil provided a clear and professional service. He continues to guide me through my pension maze and ensuring that I can navigate the most tax efficient solution for my purposes.

What could they have done better?

Very little. He has kept me informed of progress over the last couple of years and has been able to work with my pension administrators in my best interests.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

We found Phil O'Connor easy to talk to and he understood our Pension Requirements exactly and we found the whole process went very smoothly and we were happy with the service he provided.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil knows his stuff, he is straight talking and will go out of his way to meet my needs. He listens carefully and uses his experience and knowledge. He cares about the people he works with, gets to know them and responds to their needs but also provides thoughts and advice to help open up the picture for the best result. I would and have recommended Phil to others.

What could they have done better?

I have no suggestions for improvement.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil O'Connor became our Financial Advisor about 10 - 15years ago. Since then he has become our IFA and we have built up a very warm and mutually beneficial relationship. Phil has always been available for advice and discussion and he has a very broad wealth of financial knowledge. On occasions, he will consult with others for further advice and we feel that shows maturity and wisdom. Whilst we sometimes may disagree, one has to admire his strength of character in ensuring that his advice is what he believes is the best for us. His company has been growing steadily over the years and this is a strong indicator that he is bringing results for other clients other than ourselves. Phil volunteers a large portion of his spare time to communal matters which much be very much appreciated. All in all, a very sound, knowledgeable and principled man in whom we are happy to place our confidence.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

TRUSTWORTHY AND HONEST

What could they have done better?

NOTHING

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil O'Connor helped me deal with a complex situation. Very thorough and professional-I have recommended him to friends and family.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I met Phil several years ago now. Phil has my 100% trust and respect. He is knowledgable, interested in each of his clients and their varying wants and needs, and is totally honest and fair in all his dealings. If only all Financial Advisers were of his calibre there may be less need for stringent regulation........................

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Thorough evaluation of my Pensions options at an important time

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I have been involved with Phil for many years. Throughout this time he has built up an understanding of my financial objectives and we work closely together to achieve these ends. He is very conscientious at I fell that at all times he has my best interests at heart

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil is very easy to talk to, very patient and gives you straight answers to questions.

What could they have done better?

Can't fault his approach or knowledge - could support a better football team!

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Very personable, responsive, approachable, thorough and knowledgeable. Inspires confidence.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil was very helpful with advice concerning NHS pensions. He is knowledgeable and quick to respond eo email queries. I would have no hesitation in recommending him.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I have had (and continue to have) excellent service from Phil O'Connor; he's been insightful, very thorough, patient, has been timely in his advice and kept up to date with continually changing legislation. He's also very personable and a good communicator. I gained his services through personal recommendation.

What could they have done better?

I can't find fault with Phil.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

Phil is approachable and supportive and explains complex matters in easy to understand terms.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of at all.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

I have used Phil for 3 years and he is a lovely, easy to deal with professional person.

Review from verified client

June, 2015

How has Phil O'Connor helped you?

helpful, informative and reviewed all the documents I brought in, agreed a staged review of different areas of my finances which was also helpful to my personal situation and affordability