Mark Manning

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

I wanted a health check of my pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It's too early to say

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark produced clear advice aligned to my priorities. When presenting this advice, he adjusted the advice tactically in response to our conversation.

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Wanted to impact my pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes very happy with results

How has Mark Manning helped you?

As above

What could they have done better?

Not sure

Mark's reply

Good evening Rob, Thank you so much for taking time to leave a review of our services -its very much appreciated. I look forward to helping you and Lyn transition into full retirement over the coming years and making best use of your retirement savings to achieve your financial goals. Please do not hesitate to pass my details onto any family and friends that you feel could help with my advice. Look forward to catching up later in this year to undertake your annual review. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

We had a substantial amount of money which we wanted to invest.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

By giving professional advise that was tailored to our needs.

What could they have done better?

Nothing as more than happy.

Mark's reply

Hi Wendy, Thank you so much for taking time to leave a review! I have very much enjoyed working with you and Adrian over the past 15 plus years. Hope you both enjoy your retirement and look forward to catching up with you both soon to review the progress of your investments. If you feel that any friends and families can benefit from my advice, please do not hesitate to pass on my details. Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Needed direction for pension and savings

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Excellent advice and support Always keen to discuss our thoughts and principles and relate this to the accounts

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mark's reply

Hi Mel, Thank you so much for taking time to leave a review of our services - it very much appreciated. I hope that you and Mark have a clearer pathway to the comfortable retirement we initially discussed at our first meeting and that your existing Ethically based Pension and Investments can help you both meet your financial goals as well as matching your desire to invest in Ethical and Sustainable funds. Please do feel free to pass on my contact details to any family or friends that you think could benefit from my advice. Wishing you all the best for 2023! Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Savings investment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - a steady, profitable growth over the period.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Been readily available whenever called upon, listened carefully to circumstances and offered sensible, tailored choices.

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Savings investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - a steady, profitable growth over the period.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Been readily available whenever called upon, listened carefully to circumstances and offered sensible, tailored choices.

Mark's reply

Hi Dave, Thank you so much for taking time to leave a review - its very much appreciated. Its been my absolute pleasure working with you and Ann over the past 15 plus years. Hopefully we'll see are respective sides Coventry and QPR play in the premiere league together someday!! Best Wishes. Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Savings and investing for the future

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Advice has been given that is thorough and considered. Mark explains complex financial information in a way that we understand and allows us to make a decision when we are comfortable. No hard sell involved.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mark's reply

Good Afternoon Sharon, Thank you very much for taking time to leave us a review of our services - it is very much appreciated. It has been a pleasure working with both you and Steve over the past almost 10 years and look forward to continuing to help you meet your financial goals going forward. Please do feel free to pass my details onto friends and family that you feel I may be off assistance to in the future. Assuring you off my best attention at all times. Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I wanted to set up a pension & had some money I wanted to invest

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Friendly , down to earth help & advised taylored to my personal needs

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mark's reply

Hi Pete, Thank you for taking time to leave a review of our services. Its has been a pleasure to work with you over the past couple of years and look forward to continuing to help you meet your financial goals over the coming years. Please feel free to pass my contact details on to any family and friends that you think I may be able to assist. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

After my previous IFA retired I was looking for a new one. Mark was recommended to me by our mortgage advisor.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark has always been very diligent when looking after my private pension plan.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

Mark's reply

Pete, Thank you for taking time to leave a review - it is very much appreciated. I hope I can continue to work with you and Jill for many more years to come. Please feel free to pass my details onto any friends and family that you think might benefit from my assistance. Take Care Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

I did not specifically look for an advisor. My wife worked for an I F A, and, it seemed a natural progression to use them.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In the main, Yes.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

I trust him to invest our small monies in a position that gives me some sort of return.

What could they have done better?

I am not financially astute to answer that question!

Mark's reply

Good Afternoon Jim, Thank you so much for taking time to leave a review of our services - it is very much appreciated. It has been my absolute pleasure working with you and Gill since Gordon Bossons retired and look forward many more years helping you meet your financial goals. As ever, if you have any friends and family that you think might benefit from my advice please do pass on my details to them. Take Care and look forward to catching up with you again at our next review. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

needed to sort out various pensions and savings and investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

How has Mark Manning helped you?

given us options that would best suit our circumstances for pensions and investments.

Mark's reply

Adrian - thank you for taking time to leave a review of our services. it has been a pleasure to work with you and Wendy over the past 10 plus years and look forward to helping you continue to achieve your financial goals in the future. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Approaching Retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Invested my funds such that they increase in value

What could they have done better?

Don't Know

Mark's reply

Alan - thank you for taking time to leave a review of our services. It has been a pleasure working with you since 2015 and look forward to continuing to help you meet your financial goals, over the coming years Please feel free to pass on my contact details to any friends or family that you think I may be able to assist. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

On my retirement from employment I sought out Mark Manning (via online reviews} to oversee a pension transfer to a subsequent drawdown arrangement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, absolutely.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark invited me to an initial meeting to discuss my options. He made me aware of the possible risks involved with each recommendation.

What could they have done better?

No

Mark's reply

Thankyou for taking time to leave a review of our services Jeremy. It has been a pleasure working with you to help you better understand your retirement income options and look forward to continuing to work with you in the future. Please feel free to pass my details onto to friends or family that you feel will benefit from our services. All the best. Mark

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

We needed advice and support to make decisions for investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, definitely.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Over nearly 20 years we have seen good rewards on our investments. We have regular reviews and the advice reflects the variances in the markets.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2022

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark again advised the transfer of my annual tax free allowance from my capital to the Stocks and Shares ISA. He also advised how to apportion legacies to the different beneficiaries so now can re-write my Will.

Review from verified client

April, 2022

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

Early retirement

How has Mark Manning helped you?

By providing sound advice and the facility to invest pension lump sums wisely

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes given the volatile financial environment of recent years.

What could they have done better?

Flat fees charged for the transfer of small investments seemed a little disproportionate when a sliding scale would have been more acceptable. Having said this the use of Mark’s discretion over the application of fees on subsequent transfers is most welcome.

Repeat review from verified client

January, 2022

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Marks advise has always been honest, fair and most importantly I have felt secure knowing that it has always been aimed at MY best interests. I have recommended him to 4 of my closest friends so clearly I think his advice is very good.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark is always responsive to any queries I may have between reviews.

Mark's reply

Thank you for your kind words. It has been a pleasure to work with you and Dick over these past 15 years and look forward to continue to help you in the coming years. Take Care Kind Regards Mark

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2021

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark has reviewed our retirement income requirements and provided assurance over a long term strategy by moving to a new approach which we can easily see will benefit ourselves. This has been achieved by Mark taking time to totally understand our requirement along with his wide knowledge of different platform offering. At all times Mark ensures we have time to ask the "Silly" question and understand the options.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Although this has been a difficult time for the financial markets Mark's advice has been excellent

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark's advice from last year has worked well and I have been able to still live comfortably on the reduced draw down income from investments. He agreed with me that I continue with that strategy for a few months and then if needed the draw down could be increased if needed. Again he advised to transfer from capital my annual tax free allowance to my Stocks and Shares ISA. he also explained the Ethical Investment Scheme and said he found that such investments were performing well and asked if I would be interested in changing to those investments. I agreed and said he would research investments to match my attitude to risk. He still respects my slightly hesitant approach to investment risks especially in view of the high increase expected for gas and electricity.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2021

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Very good and timely advice relating to both existing and new investments. The recent seminar on ethical investments was an excellent new development which we hope will become a regular opportunity to learn more about financial planning in general.

Repeat review from verified client

January, 2021

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

My investments have continued to grow at a satisfactory and in a safe way

Repeat review from verified client

December, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark has reassured us during this very difficult time, putting a statement out early on during the COVID crisis. As the pandemic continued and the markets contracted Mark continued to keep us calm with a reassuring email from time to time. We were offered our annual review which we initially deferred and when we were ready this was arranged without fuss and at our convenience. Totally satisfied with the services provided.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

As above - Mark still provides a high quality service

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark has continued to give advice and assurances around our investments, he has been proactive in arranging reviews in line with our personal targets and requirements. In a year of sometimes turbulent financial markets its great to have someone who not only knows your personal situation but provides timely advice which you can trust.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Due to the current worldwide and national economic climate the advice was to stay put with current investments as all investments are subject to little or no growth and interest rates are almost nil. He was confident that soon there will be a recovery and fairly rapid too. He also suggested that as my expenditure over the past six months has very much reduced to reduce my draw down income from investments to, at least temporarily, increase invested capital in anticipation of future financial recovery. At any time should I find the need to increase the income that can be done at any time. He also advised to transfer from capital my annual tax free allowance to my Stocks and Shares ISA. As usual he did not pressurise me to go beyond what I felt comfortable with regard to investment risk.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Continues to provide excellent service and advice.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark has offered continuous reassurance, support and advice during a very difficult period. He has meticulously followed up all issues raised during our annual review and I am confident that he always acts in our best interest.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Always staying in touch to see if we need any further help

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Great service. Very knowledgeable and has got us an affordable and very beneficial product

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Hi Mark, we made an appointment for a telephone review, this did not take place as you stated that you didn't have my contact number even though I specifically emailed it to you prior to our arranged meeting. Your secretary then made another appointment which she susequently cancelled when she realised it was a Bank holiday. I have not had any further appointment to have this review

Repeat review from verified client

September, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

I have not requested or needed any further so there is little I can add to my previous review.

Repeat review from verified client

August, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Kept me informed of pension performance and advised about any alterations required

Repeat review from verified client

June, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

The original intended target has been achieved and I am happy with the outcome.

Repeat review from verified client

May, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Clear explanation of current global financial situation.

Repeat review from verified client

May, 2020

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

been clear and realistic with advise in difficult times

Repeat review from verified client

December, 2019

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark has continued to help us with our financial plans. The advice has always been sound with our interests at heart giving us the continued reassurance in these uncertain times

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2019

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark is always timely in his response to any query that we may have, and he has always given us very sound advice.

Repeat review from verified client

November, 2019

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Discussed post working financial potential issues and solutions. Helped to understand the current Brexit context and made suggestions for diversification.

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2019

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Yes, Mark has helped me massively in securing a solid financial portfolio maximising it’s potential.

Review from verified client

October, 2019

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

Disappointed with service from previous adviser......Mr Manning was recommended by a friend and in a Times article

How has Mark Manning helped you?

sound advice on investment and pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

so far...so good in testing times

Repeat review from verified client

October, 2019

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

How has Mark Manning helped you since your last review?

Mark and his team provided excellent advice and managed the transfer of 2 work pensions into new investment funds enabling a seamless transition into retirement without any problems. Mark was always available to answer any of our questions and we were kept informed at each stage of the process which gave us total re assurance at a time of major change to our life.

Mark's reply

No problem at all - just glad to be of service and look forward to working with you and Trina to continue to meet your long term financial goals. Enjoy your retirement!!! Kind Regards Mark See you are sniffing around Ryan Manning (no relation!!) - he's been a revalation for us this season, but he's only cemented a place in our first team in the last 8 games so not sure he's "ready" for move to the Prem just yet - as ever money talks!!

Review from verified client

October, 2019

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

I wanted good advice about how to use my pensions to retire early and to maximise income and savings.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

He provided current information, explaining choices and options in easy to understand ways. He provided clear strengths and weaknesses of our options yet enabled and supported us to make our own decisions. Once we had decided on our options, he supported the various applications/contacts to deliver what we wanted to do.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been able to retire early, maximising our income for the period when I will be eligible for a state pension. This includes investments which are ethical as well.

What could they have done better?

We have no suggestions as we found that Mark provided the service that we required.

Mark's reply

Hi Keith, Thank you so much for taking time to complete a review of our services and your kind words - it is very much appreciated. I look forward to continuing to work with you and Kate, to help you meet your financial goals. A As for my football allegiance - we all have our own crosses to bare!!! Hope you are enjoying retirement. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

October, 2019

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

Redundancy retirement provided the opportunity to invest a tax-free lump sum for medium term growth with the option for income generation to supplement my pension after 4-5 years.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark carried out a thorough assessment of my circumstances and discussed various options to maximise the benefit from my redundancy retirement settlement. This resulted in the setting up of an appropriate ethical investment portfolio with ongoing support from Mark to ensure all future financial decisions are well-informed. Mark also provided help with the updating of wills for my wife and I.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

While it is too early to comment on the performance of the investment portfolio I am confident that the options selected are the most appropriate and I am both pleased and at ease with the current location of my capital. Whenever I contact Mark or another member of his team for advice or information there is always a prompt and full response.

What could they have done better?

Had difficulty reading Mark's hand-writing on the will proposal form but he did apologise for this in advance!

Review from verified client

October, 2019

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

Having children - wanting to make sure we had enough pension when I retired; making sure we had life insurance; setting up savings accounts for our children.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

He analysed our pensions and gave us advice on how to proceed in order to provide a little more in our pension pot; set up life insurance for us and set up savings accounts for our children.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Everything is in place.

What could they have done better?

I thought Mark provided excellent advice. We appreciated the time he took to explain difficult subjects with us.

Mark's reply

Hi Gill, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review!! It is very much appreciated!! I look forward to working with you and Martin over the coming years to help you meet all your financial goals. Kind Regards Mark

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark certainly knows his subject and clearly explained several scenarios that may fit my requirements.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark's team were in touch almost immediately after my request and a meeting set up. Mark gave a very clear, accessible presentation on the personal pension options available to me. He was also clear in outlining his professional services and charges, but put me under no pressure and was generous with both his time and advice.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark gave me a very good overview of the options available to me in considering my Inheritance Tax planning. I found him to be friendly and approachable.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Very helpful. Though there are no immediate actions, I will certainly consider Mark for future business.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2019

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Relaxed and informative meeting, gave me food for thought on my options. Will be contacting him later in the year. Thank you

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

We ere long overdue a pension review.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

He very patiently reviewed all our current circumstances and looked at the various pensions we have. He reviewed all the financial data and has made recommendations going forward which we have acted upon.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

All the transfers have been completed where applicable.

What could they have done better?

Mark was very helpful and patient. I genuinely cannot think of anything that he could have done better.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

I needed financial advice with investments, mortgage and pensions

How has Mark Manning helped you?

We have known Mark for many years now and he has given us the advice and reassurance of what to do next with our financial planning. He has been there at important stages in recent years when our circumstances have changed with retirement and the need to invest and secure our future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Mark has always given honest, clear advice without giving false promises. Mark is always contactable to answer any queries.

What could they have done better?

nothing, very happy with the service provided

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

Investing monies from divorce settlement to allow monthly income and flexibility to withdraw additional monies if required

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Advantage/disadvantage of various options of investment. Low/high risk options. Best options for my personal requirements/situation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. However at present the market is poor which has a negative effect on my investments. Hoping for improvement in market. This possibility was explained by Mark and I understood the risk when investing my monies.

What could they have done better?

I feel for my personal situation all aspects of low/medium risk investments, with flexibility and draw down ability were explained.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

Fourteen years ago when I was approaching retirement the county council I was working for provided pre-retirement financial advice from an IFA which over the years changed hands several times eventually becoming Safehands in Cheltenham. Having previously received good advice from Mark whilst he worked with the previous IFA's I wanted him to continue being my advisor when he established Safehands and he agreed.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Initially I had an extremely small capital sum to invest and the advice he gave me provided me with a good return to supplement my state pension and minute company pension. Recently I received a good settlement from contesting a Will and the advice he has given on that investment has yielded a monthly income which has vastly improved my financial situation so that I can live reasonably well.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything Mark could have done better - he obviously knows the markets.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

Preparing Financially for Retirement

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Clear Information

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No Problems, The stockmarket decides the outcome, Safehands selection of products performs as I would expect

What could they have done better?

I consider that Marks advise is pragmatic thus keep up the good information.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

I was recently divorced and received a lump sum settlement. It was essential that I invested this money to bring a safe but good monthly return to boost my self employed income.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark guided me through the process making sure I always understood the process and ensuring I was only taking the risks I felt entirely comfortable with. I am not confident when it comes to investments and Mark didn't once make me feel silly or worried.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most definitely!.

What could they have done better?

I really like Marks approach so personally wouldn't change anything.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

Getting my investments sorted out and better organised. Also needed to do some planning for the future.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Made some recommendations and suggestions explained things clearly and simply. Quickly understood my needs and worked within these boundaries. Patient with all the questions i asked to clarify, even when they were probably very obvious to him.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Think so, although still some follow up required. Regular update emails though to keep me informed of progress and very solution focused when we came to the odd bump in the road. Feel that my investments are in a better place as a consequence of working with Mark and taking his recommendations.

What could they have done better?

Happy so far so not able to make any suggestions.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

Retiring from full time employment and looking to transfer my company pension to a private draw down investment portfolio.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Provided guidance on what my investments could achieve with solid down to earth guidance and support going through the process of transferring my pension fund into the investment portfolio. Mark currently manages our portfolio with the first annual review coming up.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With the present economy the investment hasn't returned what it might of done a few years ago but I'm not overly worried by the current results.

What could they have done better?

Better blend of coffee :)

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

30+ years ago, is was about saving for the future.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark has built on an existing portfolio, both consolidating and developing it. In so doing he has had a clear and agreed understanding of my financial needs and approach to investment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, steady growth and improved organisation of investments.

What could they have done better?

nothing to add

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

I was getting old enough and had enough money to warrant having a financial advisor.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark was very good and sat me down and talked me through every option available. He described each option so that I was able to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My investments have made excellent returns.

What could they have done better?

Mark couldn’t have done nothing better. The only downside is the lead in time to get an appointment.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

Planing retirement.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Everything was explained in terms we could understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

Consistently good service.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Redirect funds to higher yielding funds management.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Within expectations.

What could they have done better?

No comment

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

My meeting with Mark was very beneficial because he quickly established why I was looking for advice and gave clear explanations of the options available to me. He checked that I had understood the financial terminology and I felt comfortable in asking for clarification when needed. I feel confident in Mark’s ability to look after my finances.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Profession and honest approach.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

I have a good conversation with Mark. I found him to be positive and personable and I am looking forward to a first meeting with him.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Rated 5/5

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

5

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

I had been building up money in a SIPP and had reached an age at which I thought I might be able to retire.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark provided advice on my options for receiving income during my retirement. Based on the value of the money in my SIPP, Mark was able to advise on how much income the different options were likely to provide. He also checked on my attitude to risk as that is obviously a key factor. After receiving Mark's advice I decided to take on a drawdown arrangement which seemed to fit my needs best.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The advice Mark provided was clear and very helpful. The outcome is very much as I was hoping it would be. I now have a monthly income at a level that I am happy with and so far my investments are accumulating nicely.

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything that could be improved that would make any real difference. I was very happy with the initial meetings that I had with Mark.

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

I wanted to release some of my pension fund.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark advised, organised and co-ordinated the whole process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

looking to combine several pensions all together.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

looked at what i had and discussed the best way to benifit from his advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes.

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

We had inherited a sum of money and wanted advice with regard to investments to promote a good return and to also look at using these fund to top up our pensions.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark helped us to really think about what we were hoping to achieve finacially in the future and from that point then helped us to consider our financial options. He clearly explained all the different options available and their implications so we could make well informed decisions. We felt very comfortable with the whole process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We were very happy with the initial meeting the financial review and the output report produced with all recommendations. Once we had made our investment decisions Mark made the process very easy and clearly explained each stage and applicable timings / charges etc. It was all very transparent and we felt in control the whole time and are happy with the products reccomended.

What could they have done better?

We were very happy with Mark's approach so are unable to think of anything he could have done better other than be a Liverpool FC supporter (in my husbands opinion).

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

Had money to invest.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Advised on how best to invest our money.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

I was aged 57, approaching retirement, with several pensions with various options and underperforming investments. I needed advice and assistance on my financial situation, both at the current time through my retirement and going forwards for the next twenty to thirty years, plus I also need to ensure my wife would be financially looked after and advised if I were no longer around.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark has carried out an appraisal of my situation and listened to my requirements and he has advised me the best course of action to take, and after I have agreed, Mark has provided the knowledge and expertise to enable my requirements to be actioned.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In my opinion this is not easy question to answer. I am now into standard and stable investments that I would not be able to access without an IFA. I am very happy when I compare what I have achieved with Mark compared to what I could manage by my own (and poorly performing bank assisted) investments for the previous five years. I now have in place an investment strategy for the short and long term and I have a trusted person whom I can call on as and when I need further advice.

What could they have done better?

My difficulty is that if I hire a plumber to fit a bathroom I can see a tangible asset that I pay for. With advice, you need to trust your IFA and you need to be truthful about your situation and your future aspirations. Then you get advice and you get guidance and you get access to investments that are not accessible to a layperson. You need to meet with and trust your IFA. Once you make that decision then you move forwards until you do not feel your IFA is performing the best for you. For me Mark gave me a sense of trust, did not rush into things, allowed me to build on the relationship by assisting with a part of my assets, was there for me when I became worried about my decisions, reassured me of my doubts, then stays in the background until I need him or until our review times, so basically Mark couldn't have done anything better.

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

I was looking for a financial adviser to help me find a pension to transfer a share of an occupational pension into following a divorce.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark listened to my requirements and future financial plans. He established my attitude to risk and thoroughly explained all of my options. He searched the market for the most appropriate fund. Mark and his team ensured that the transfer went ahead smoothly and kept me informed throughout the process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the pension share was successfully transferred.

What could they have done better?

Mark and his team were brilliant. They were really helpful and professional during a very difficult time. It was much appreciated.

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

Advice required to manage maturing insurance policies and pension funds.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark detailed all the options and advised and guided my final choice of investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - at present very satisfied.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I am aware of.

Review from verified client

June, 2017

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

Approaching age 55 , needed advice on SIPP and how best to maximise its performance.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

He set out all options available to me , which we then discussed and agreed which way to go.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Its early days for an outcome but I am happy with the way things have gone so far.

Review from verified client

May, 2017

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

Management of pension fund.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Mark gave excellent clear guidance of the investment options available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

After 15 months the agreed investment fund has far exceeded my expectations.

What could they have done better?

Mark could not have been more helpful or professional

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2017

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

a comfortable informative meeting despite the Christmas fever at the time! clear explanations, and all questions fully answered. My financial requirements well understood by Mark

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

It wasn't Mark, because he's on holiday. I wanted to track down, evaluate, and gather various private pensions, but they were not able to offer this, nor guidance on who might.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark came highly recommend on the Vouched For site. I must admit that he was every bit as good as the reviews. He is very knowledgeable and incorporated my financial situation and future plans into his recommendations. I found the prospect of setting up a pension very daunting. It was reassuring to deal with someone who could explain the process without the hard sell.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2016

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

First meeting but I liked the way Mark explained different options to me and took the time to explore the possibilities open to me.

Review from verified client

June, 2016

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

Not satisfied with my Pension provider at the time.

How has Mark Manning helped you?

Evaluated the situation and recomended a solution.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I was quite happy to follow my advisers recomendations.

What could they have done better?

I have no problem my Financial advisers performance

Review from verified client

June, 2016