Robert Brealey

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

Looking for retirement advice regarding pensions, investments and options

How has Robert Brealey helped you?

Provided clear options in a straightforward and understandable way. Avoids jargon and communicates at a level simple to understand and follow. Has allowed me to set up a pension/investment that is currently meeting my needs and expectations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

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

I wanted an independent financial advisor to help me set up a pension and plan for my future. I wanted someone who could guide me through the various options available, ensuring that I make informed decisions that align with my situation and aspirations. With their expertise, I hope to establish a secure financial foundation that would enable me to enjoy my retirement years comfortably.

How has Robert Brealey helped you?

Robert advised me on the options and set up my pension, providing guidance that went beyond just preparing for retirement. He challenged me to think critically about my contributions, discussing not only how to build a robust retirement fund but also how to ensure I would be financially secure in the event of unforeseen circumstances. This comprehensive approach gave me peace of mind, knowing that I was not only setting aside funds for my later years but also safeguarding my family's financial future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I achieved my outcome by actively engaging with Robert, following his guidance, and he set up a suitable pension.

What could they have done better?

They could not have done better, as their expertise and personalised approach exceeded my expectations and helped me navigate the complexities of finding a pension with ease.

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

As I am nearing retirement I felt my wife and I needed a plan and assistance with what to do with a fairly large portfolio of pensions. We looked around for the best advisor and were recommended Robert.

How has Robert Brealey helped you?

Robert has worked with great detail through our pensions and contacting providers to get information. His advice has been incredibly useful in helping us make decisions on retirement timing.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes the outcome was actually better than we would have hoped for

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything.

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

With my planned retirement around 8 years away, I wanted to find someone who could help me plan my route to retirement and beyond. Someone I trusted, an expert in their field and could bring clarity to a complex world.

How has Robert Brealey helped you?

Robert has helped enormously. By my own admission, I wasn't across the ins and outs of retirement planning due to a very busy work schedule, a divorce and caring duties. He took a very detailed and thorough look at everything and put together a proposal that made complete sense . I was very happy to give the go ahead. Above all, it was his clear explanation around how I'll be set up in the future and what I'll be working with when I hit retirement. He also explained how it would all work if I was forced to stop early. He was a great support throughout.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, very much so. I feel secure in the knowledge that I'm on course to reach my target retirement with my finances in the best shape thanks to Robert's advice. I know I can contact him at anytime and he's very supportive.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. It's been a very positive experience.

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

Amongst my pension funds, I had a 'legacy' fund with safeguarded benefits. I wanted to use this fund to provide my base pension income alongside my State Pension. I was seeking guidance on the most tax efficient way to access the fund. Separately I also wanted advice on investment options for my defined contribution funds that I did not intend to access.

How has Robert Brealey helped you?

Robert clarified my options for taking income from the fund via the schemes GMP, annuity and a protected lump sum. Robert confirmed the best available annuity rates for my circumstances and made the arrangements for the purchase of the annuity. He then provided a comprehensive report on the options for my defined contribution funds including recommendations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very satisfied with the outcome and the guidance and advice I was given by Robert and appreciated his prompt responses and advice in dealing with the scheme administrators for my legacy pension fund.