Mike Black

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2024

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Professional, and explained things very clearly.

Review from verified client

October, 2023

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Recommended to Mike by Chris Broad , as needed pebnsion advice

How has Mike Black helped you?

Sorted out all my investments and pensions into 1 pot which is much easier to manage

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Bit early to tell the financial impact but seems to be much better and pleased I can draw down on my pensions

What could they have done better?

I was happy with the srvice and advice

Review from verified client

September, 2023

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Planning savings for my children

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike helped talk through options and made the process easy to understand

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Still early days, but I receive regular updates

Mike's reply

Hi Stef, Thanks very much for taking the time to leave me a review and for your kind words. Very much appreciated. Speak soon. Mike

Review from verified client

September, 2023

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Change in family circumstances and the need to consolidate financial affairs.

How has Mike Black helped you?

By making the process clear, simple and effective.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - pensions are managed expertly and with clarity.

What could they have done better?

Nothing - it has been an excellent service so far.

Mike's reply

Hi Jane Thanks very much for taking the time to leave me a review and for your kind words. Very much appreciated. Speak soon. Mike

Review from verified client

September, 2023

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Consolidating my pensions

How has Mike Black helped you?

Advice on risk

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet but I’m in for the middle to long term

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mike's reply

Hi Clive Many thanks for taking the time to leave me a review and your comments. Much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards Mike

Review from verified client

June, 2023

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I needed advice on pensions with retirement

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike has made me understand the different option's to think about while considering my choices

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes it was very important to me that that i understood the potential advantages and disadvantages to the choices

What could they have done better?

Honestly wasn't anything they could of done better

Mike's reply

Hi Sue Many thanks for your review and kind comments. Much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Helpful advice, quick response.

Mike's reply

Hi James Thanks for taking the time to leave this review and should the circumstances dictate, I look forward to working with you in the future. Happy New Year. MRB.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I had left my previous job, started my own company and needed to move my pension away from the current providers associated with my old employment.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike helped to find me a suitable pension fund based on my views towards risk

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is too early to tell - I have signe dup with the suggestion provided by Mike and I would hope that the investment / strategy for the fund can deliver on my requirements.

What could they have done better?

N/a

Mike's reply

Hi Adam Many thanks for taking the time to leave me a review and for your kind comments. It is much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike got back to me on same day. He discussed my situation a bit with me, but, as an American, he is not allowed to advise me.

Mike's reply

Hi Mary Thanks very much for taking the time to leave a review. It was a pleasure to meet you and I'm sorry our authorisations don't cover advice to US citizens. All the best for the future. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Recommendation

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike arranged pension for me and helped me arrange my finance

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, couldn't have been more helpful and factual

What could they have done better?

Nothing he was the best of the best

Mike's reply

Hi Ross Many thanks for taking the time to leave a review and for your comments. They are much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Mike was recommended to me by my current financial advisor.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike has certainly streamlined my investments, keeping everything simple and ongoing costs low.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days but so far am very satisfied with the advice I have received.

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything Mike could have improved upon.

Mike's reply

Hi Sally Many thanks for taking the time to leave me a review and for your comments. It's much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Just looking for some Pension advice and my father recommended Mike

How has Mike Black helped you?

He has helped my understand my pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mike's reply

Hi Ben Thanks very much for taking the time to leave a review. It's much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

June, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Coming to that time in life where needed to review and streamline finances….

How has Mike Black helped you?

Talked me through options and gave clear and concise advice. Feel that everything is a bit more in hand now…and that I have a plan rather than just a list of good intentions!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days yet, but fingers crossed!

What could they have done better?

Not really sure.

Mike's reply

Hi Sue Many thanks for taking the time to leave me a review and your kind comments. It's much appreciated. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

June, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Review of pensions

How has Mike Black helped you?

Organised a transfer into a more suitable plan

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mike's reply

Many thanks for taking the time to leave the review and for your kind comments Darren. Speak soon. MRB.

Review from verified client

May, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Had a number of different pensions and wanted advice on best way to take these forward.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He provided various options and arranged the one I chose

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Still early days so not really possible to confirm one way or the other

What could they have done better?

Again too early to say

Mike's reply

Hi Thomas Thanks very much for taking the time to leave me a review. Much appreciated. Speak soon. MRB.

Review from verified client

May, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

We started a new business and needed protection for the shareholders

How has Mike Black helped you?

He managed to find policies that fitted all our needs

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes , we were happy that he was able to find the right products for us

Mike's reply

Hi Kerry Thanks very much for your review. Speak soon. MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike was very helpful and reassuring regarding my questions on pension schemes

Mike's reply

Many thanks Julie Your comments are much appreciated. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

January, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Having 3 separate pensions

How has Mike Black helped you?

Bringing together the 3 into 1 pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s early days but looks proy

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mike's reply

Hi Clive Many thanks for your review and kind comments. I look forward to working with you over the years. Regards MRB.

Review from verified client

January, 2022

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Change in investment service

How has Mike Black helped you?

By telling us what options were open to us

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

As this transfer was only recently put into practice it is to soon to see the outcome

What could they have done better?

To soon to comment

Review from verified client

September, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I had two pensions from my previous employment roles and both were losing money, I wanted to combine them and get advice as to how to make them work better for me.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike has been fantastic, he and his team at Oakwood helped me each step of the way, to update the account details on the pensions, to shifting them over, setting up a new payment into them and deciding which type of risk and management would suit me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome has far exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend Mike and the team at Oakwood.

Mike's reply

Hi Carly Thanks for taking the time to leave a review and for your kind comments. Very much appreciated. MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike provides sound financial advice founded on his excellent experience and technical knowledge and he does all that at the same time as being a genuinely nice guy.

Mike's reply

Hi Andy Many thanks for your review and kind comments. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike is patient, straight talking and thorough in his approach and has helped me to make the best decisions for my needs with my finances and pension. He explains things in laymen’s terms and makes everything much easier to understand.

Mike's reply

Hi Julie Thanks very much for taking the time to leave this review and for your kind comments. Much appreciated. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Michael is excellent! For years, we have not fully understood our pension/retirement position. All is now clear and we can relax knowing it is all in very safe hands with a constant firm hand on the tiller.

Mike's reply

Hi Karen Many thanks for taking the time to feedback and for your kind comments. It's great to work with you. Speak soon. MRB

Review from verified client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Had multiple pension schemes from different companies and wanted to put all of them in to one, so its easier to keep track of.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike was very helpful.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, absolutely

Mike's reply

Hi Kush Many thanks for taking the time to review and for your kind comments. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike explained everything very clearly in language I could understand. He also provided additional useful advice and gave an honest assessment of my existing pensions. Efficient in sending all documentation.

Mike's reply

Hi Rosie Thanks very much for taking the time to feedback and for your kind comments. Speak soon. MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike was very professional and super efficient I would highly recommend him to my friends and family.

Mike's reply

Hi Kim Thanks so much for taking the time to feedback and for your kind comments. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike is highly professional and very knowledgeable. I am delighted with what he has done for me so far and long may it continue!

Mike's reply

Hi Peter Thanks very much for your kind words and taking the time to feedback. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Clear and precise information provided by Mike in a personable and friendly manner. Would recommend his services to friends and colleagues.

Mike's reply

Hi Simon Many thanks for taking the time to review and for your kind comments. Speak soon. MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Very professional, Mike clearly explained our current situation and options.

Mike's reply

Hi Laurence Many thanks to you and Helen for your review and kind comments. Speak soon. Regards MRB.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Highly professional but with a "Lay language" easy to understand, not too techo. Answered all my questions in depth with possible scenarios for "Either/Or" questions -this was extremely helpful in making my own decisions.

Mike's reply

Hi Chris Thanks so much for taking the time to feedback and for your kind comments. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Very knowledgeable, approachable and good to work with. Making it all easier to understand

Mike's reply

Hi Mike Many thanks for your kind review and comments. Much appreciated. Speak soon. MRB

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Quick response, but realised he would not be able to help, as I needed an independent advisor.

Mike's reply

Good luck with it Doug and thanks for taking the time to feedback.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

Fresh overview

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike refreshed my pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of

Review from verified client

March, 2021

This review was gathered whilst the adviser was at a different firm.

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

I resigned from my job and decided to look at retiring.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike obtained a clear picture of my current and projected financial situation. He took the trouble to get to know me, which helped him to work out how best to use my available funds. Mike helped me to estimate how much I would need to live on, how much to keep as easy access and then allocated the rest to a portfolio of investments. Thanks to Mike's advice to take lump sums, I have been able to draw down as necessary and have the confidence of knowing I am in a stable financial position. Mike also pointed out things, of which I was unaware, such as the right to continue to pay into my pension for a set time and thereby obtain the considerable tax relief available. Mike was confident to suggest various other options open to me such as putting a certain amount of cash into a Stocks & Shares ISA. He gave considerable thought as to the best use of my money, but respected entirely my right to choose, even when he did not necessarily agree with me. At no time did he pressurise me to take a certain direction.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

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

I had a financial adviser already but found it wasn’t very personal, the fees seemed expensive and as someone not confident with organising money I was never totally sure my best interests were at heart. So I looked elsewhere.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He helped me understand various things about savings, particularly pensions and also the personal connection that gave me the confidence to switch without hesitation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very pleased so far!

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of!

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

To review my pensions, take some money out and help me to re-invest

How has Mike Black helped you?

He explained my options

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing I’m happy with the service I received

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

Needed a pension

How has Mike Black helped you?

Being professional

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not as yet

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

Didn’t find the one we had to be as vigilant as we’d liked

How has Mike Black helped you?

Explaining what various investments do, the difference between levels of risk and tax efficiency measures.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We haven’t been with him for that long but it’s looking as if it’s going in the right direction, and we feel much more confident under his guidance

What could they have done better?

Not a lot! He’s very conscientious about reviewing our situation regularly and is very efficient and quick off the mark when changes are made

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

I wanted to have clarity and an overview of all of our pensionable income and savings plus a Financial Advisor whom I felt was actively interested in advising us on an ongoing basis i.e. not just do a review and that's it.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He talked us through all of our options, understood what we wanted to achieve and then provided advice on how to do this. Due to illness and then Covid-19, we have had a longer than we'd have liked process to get it all sorted but Mike has been understanding, patient, and gently nudging us forward but without being pushy. We feel that our pensions are now working harder for us and that our savings goals are more likely to be achieved.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far, yes! We have more clarity, it feels good to have everything consolidated rather than in disparate pieces, and Mike has been with us every step of the way.

What could they have done better?

I genuinely can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

Had a couple of pensions that had not been looked at for a long time and had no contact or advice from the pension companies

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike looked at the pensions, identified what needed to be done and explained it very clearly, here was no presure at any time, everything was explained and then you were left to make your own decision

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes - have received updates showing what my pensions are doing, regular updates will enable me to keep an eye on things generally and I would now feel comfortable to contact Mike to discuss options further

What could they have done better?

I don't think Mike could have done anything more, overall i was very happy with how everything was handled

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

Mike is the spokes person / head / referrer. I didn't actually deal with Mike in the end but his colleague was very helpful none the less.

Mike's reply

Hi Edward Thanks very much for taking the time to leave this review and for your kind comments. Hopefully we will speak again when you have a need for my specialist services and I'm delighted that Paul was able to help you. Regards Mike Black

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mike

I had a query on an Investment Bond and Mike gave me very good advice which helped a great deal. There was no charge. Not many things you can say that about these days!

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

A new job meant I received a pension each month from my employer

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike provided me with a risk profile questionnaire and following this established with me on the phone my preferred risk position for investing my pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the markets are already showing strong signs of recovery from the coronavirus outbreak and some holdings have increased above pre-corona levels

What could they have done better?

Meeting with Mike face to face might have helped understand my position better, although a phone call was probably sufficient given the small investment my employer is making into the fund each month

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

I wanted to put my pensions on to one platform and Mike was recommended to me by my long standing Mortgage Advisor

How has Mike Black helped you?

He guided a 'none savvy' novice the way through the process with patience and professionalism

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to tell as we have only just transferred my pensions across

What could they have done better?

All good. Nothing to report!

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

I wished to consolidate my pensions and improve performance of Stocks & Shares ISAs

How has Mike Black helped you?

Full service review of current finances and useful forecasts of future financial needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I prefer to give this feedback in private.

Review from verified client

June, 2020

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

Advised on setting up a pension for the directors of a small limited company

How has Mike Black helped you?

Advised on how this should be done, the tax implications and option.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the advice was clear and a pension has been set up for the Directors

What could they have done better?

We received the advice we needed and don't really think there was anything more we wanted or expected

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

I wanted to move my pension to a more modern version.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Explained and did the donkey work.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

I had recently downsized to a smaller property and would be living off the money remaining.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike helped by organising my money into different investments and changing my existing pension into something more suitable.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s rather early days to see the outcome just yet, along with the covid 19 pandemic which created delays, but I am confident that things are going in the right direction.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

My pension and investments I had were not performing well

How has Mike Black helped you?

Full financial review and forward planing.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely even in these very uncertain times the performance is better than expected.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I am very satisfied in the speed in which things happen and the amount of detail Mike has gone into.

Review from verified client

February, 2020

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

Getting older and having no pension provision as I’m self employed.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike was super friendly, down to earth and really helpful. He gave me advice in simple and realistic terms.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes! I now have a pension I am contributing towards monthly.

What could they have done better?

Nothing! All good!

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

Interested in transferring a defined benefit pension

How has Mike Black helped you?

Consolidated numerous pensions into one

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

Mike works as a director of one of my employer's clients and I was therefore put in touch with him via my employer to provide me with an alternative pension to the "Off the shelf" option I was using previously following the introduction of automatic enrollment.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He came to my office and sat down with me for 30 minutes to discuss the benefits and drawbacks from switching my pension across to him from my previous pension provider and assured me that we would have regular contact to discuss the performance of my pension and whether my portfolio needed adjusting depending on my current attitude to risk.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It has been less than a year since I made the switch, so it is therefore too soon to make this judgement.

What could they have done better?

I did struggle at times during the meeting to fully understand the differences between my previous pension and my new one, so perhaps an explanation in simpler terms would have been appreciated.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

I needed to bring all my pensions into one easy to manage fund.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike took care of everything from, contacting my existing pension providers to moving them all over to one fund.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

I have secured a full-time job and needed to arrange a pension.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Talked me through all the paperwork and documents and what a pension was.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, it will also benefit me in the future!

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

Redundancy caused me to have to assess my financial situation and pension

How has Mike Black helped you?

He did a very thorough review of my pensions, investments taking into account my specific goals and needs for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I’m very satisfied

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

I had various pensions and at as I was planning my retirement age, I thought it would be best to find the right advice for my pensions and the top up required to maintain the right level of income.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike analysed all of the pensions and concluded what would be the right approach for me and my pensions and the investment I was willing to make.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have only just set up so it is a bit early.

What could they have done better?

The graphical representation are good and more analytical breakdown

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

Started investing in a fund and wanted some professional guidance.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Choosing the right portfolio for me, assuring me of my pension plan, and acting as the intermediary for mortgage protection plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Mike clearly knows what he’s talking about but I have no idea and would appreciate it if he spoke in a very simple language, almost as if explaining it to a child, rather than using industry jargon and tell me very simply what he thinks I should do.

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

I wanted someone I could trust - I wanted someone who could explain in terms I could understand! I found him!

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike transferred funds for me to gain more interest and sorted out my finances in preparation for my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely!

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

I wanted to review and consolidate my pension arrangements, having several pension funds with different providers.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike reviewed my current pension schemes and suggested the best way to bring most of them together in one managed scheme. He advised me to leave one pension pot where it is so as to take advantage of its good final bonus feature.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far yes - I now have better understanding of where my money is invested, and can see how it is performing, which I was not as able to do before. I also have a source of advice and information in Mike if any questions arise.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, except have fewer paper forms to sign!

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

6 separate work /personal pensions; needing to consolidate and plan for future

How has Mike Black helped you?

Assessed each of my pension plans and advised to transfer 4 into a single fund to be managed by him/his team.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early, but I would never have been able to understand the options without the advise, nor have time to do the research

What could they have done better?

Nothing to note currently

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

I am nearing retirement age and wanted everything sorted out beforeI actually retire in order for me to know I have enough income to live on when I retire and also to release some money for home improvements prior to my retirement.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He sorted out my pensions re position my ISA and also put me in touch with very good equity release firm who sorted that side of things for me with Mike overseeing it for me so I had no worries about understanding the processes involved.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Obviously this is a fairly new venture only a few months old but so far I am very pleased with the outcome and the service I still receive.

What could they have done better?

To be honest I set out a plan that I wanted executed and Mike either did it for me or found me the right people to help me and then made sure everything ran smoothly which it did. I had no Nast surprises regarding fees or anything he is very straightforward and I really din’t Think he could have done more than he did to help me. Therefore I can’t honestly think of anything he could have done better.

Review from verified client

June, 2019

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

We needed a local recommended pension adviser to organise our pensions.

How has Mike Black helped you?

By providing the pension services we needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are very happy with the organisation and service.

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

A need to review and amalgamate my previous pension provision and concerns re the impact on Brexit

How has Mike Black helped you?

He recommended a pension platform which takes into account my attitude to risk and maximises tax relief

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The performance of my investments are easy to follow on the online portal but the desired outcome has been compromised by poor market performance in recent months

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

Change of job

How has Mike Black helped you?

Transfer and amalgamation of pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Time will tell

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

Pension

How has Mike Black helped you?

Very efficient service offered

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

At the time

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

My last adviser's company had been bought out by a much larger company, I was not happy with their service.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He advised me on how to best manage my savings and pension, and he helped to move my money to companies with a better investment rating, therefore improving my investment.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, my money is growing safely!

What could they have done better?

Mike advised me in a way I understood, and I don't think he could have done that better!

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

New addition to the family and life planning

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike has explained the different areas of finance to which i had no real extensive knowledge, and showed me the positives and negatives/risks of the varying options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have certainly seen the benefit of Mikes advice, although some elements are longer term.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, always proactive and very helpful.

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

Taking redundancy, and looking to sort out my insurances and pension.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike helped me move my company pension to a private pension. Very quick, smooth and efficient.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

Remortgage

How has Mike Black helped you?

Life insurance and pension advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

My husband and I hadn't made any provisions for a pensions or protections in the event that something should happen to one of us. This would of been catastrophic as we have a successful business together, rental properties and children.

How has Mike Black helped you?

We meet and had a initial chat about what we would need should one of us dies, what concern (individually had) and what we would like to secure in the future to enable us to retire on a realistic budget and enjoy our retirement. So as well as a pension we have also done investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In terms of the pension and protection we are delighted with the protection that we have invested in. The investment hasn't done very well over the year but that is due to the current market conditions.

What could they have done better?

we had a review recently in which Mike Black arranged and to be honest, It was on my part that we hadn't meet sooner. This is an imperative part of watching your investments closely and someone I would strong recommend doing.

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

I was already 64 and needed a comprehensive review of my pension circumstances.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Clear, precise analysis explained in plain English.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have a better pension prospect and tax free lump sum as a result of Mike's expertise.

Review from verified client

December, 2018

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

Buying a new, more expensive house, so wanted to make sure our levels of cover were sufficient.

How has Mike Black helped you?

He explained things in a way I would understand - the world of insurance is sometimes quite daunting but he took time to listen to what I wanted from my various cover(s).

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely!

What could they have done better?

Nothing, he made the whole process easy and simple for us.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

I had a complex pension position.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Gave me clear options, which he had to explain to me several times as, in such matters I'm a bit thick.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

HMRC are involved, so any delay is down to them. Mike has been very diligent with his advice and actions.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, he has been excellent.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

Help needed to maximise potential

How has Mike Black helped you?

advised on the best fund to opt into

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

too early to say

What could they have done better?

nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

I had recently purchased more of my house and needed to increase my level of protection, and due to recently having a little boy wanted to add my other half on the policy too.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike went through the best ways of getting the right amount of cover for what I exactly needed. And then did all the paperwork with me and submitted it, made my life so much easier.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, all insurance policies are in place, and I feel assured that if anything was to happen to either me and my other half then we would be covered.

What could they have done better?

I dont have any criticism of Mike, he was excellent in what he did and was very punctual when we had meetings.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

I have been a client of Oakwood since they arranged my first mortgage. When my company was acquired, the pension scheme was then stopped, so I asked mike to evaluate whether to transfer this pension fund across to my new company pension.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike did a complete analysis of the current fund and evaluated whether it made financial sense to transfer it across. After evaluating the gains versus losses he concluded it made fiscal sense to keep it in place.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, as he presented the options pitfalls and came out with a balanced sensible recommendation.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, he delivered on what I asked.

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

The release of certain tax-free amounts within pension funds.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike reviewed all my pensions methodically, including an assessment of me as an investor to determine what exposure and risk I felt I could sign up for-this is very useful as I found that one of pensions was actually not performing as good as I had first considered. We consequently agreed to switch it to a better performing investment structure. He reported back on the best ways to combine some of my 5 private pensions and which ones were definitely left as they are for best financial reasons. Mike called me regularly with updates during the process which impressed me. When he presented his final report he took much needed time to go through everything so that I understood accordingly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I could not fault Mike

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

Have used Oakwood before and have always been given excellent advice

How has Mike Black helped you?

He helped set up my company pension

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very happy with the recommendations of what funds to invest in

What could they have done better?

Nothing, excellent service as always

Review from verified client

November, 2018

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

Needing to sort out our company pension scheme and have it managed in an orderly and professional manner In addition, on a personal note, we needed to tidy up our financial affairs and ensure everything was in order.

How has Mike Black helped you?

Mike undertook a review of our pensions and transferred those that needed to be managed under one roof.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, indeed, very pleased

What could they have done better?

To be fair, nothing. Everything was explained thoroughly.