Gavin Smart

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

My parents have used Gavin at FBWM for a number of years. My husband and I wanted to invest monies so knowing how trusted Gavin was we decided to use him.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes and No there have been difficulties with the current climate but hopefully on the way up now.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

He has given the time to explain to us all the details we need to know on anything we ask. He comes to us personally nothing is too much trouble for him.

What could they have done better?

Nothing he does everything we require he’s a very nice sociable person a credit to FBWM.

Gavin's reply

Hi Ruth Thank you for taking the time to leave this review. It's been great working with you to and getting to know you. Thank you for saying that I give you time to explain the details, as it's important to me that clients really understand their options, and feel confident in their decisions Looking forward to seeing you, and your family, again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Support with retirement plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Reassured us in the current turbulent economy that our funds are performing to his and our expectations.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Catherine Thanks for taking the time to leave this review. I'm glad to hear that I have been able to reassure you regarding your investments. Planning for retirement is an important part of getting ready for the future. It a huge change in lifestyle, so I appreciate feeling comfortable is vital to making it as stress free as possible. I look forward to continuing to work with you Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Initially I needed advice about Pensions & savings, recently it has turned to Investments & Savings. Now I feel as if am coming towards the end of Long Term Care.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has been a good support & adviser in various situations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the situation across the world has changed what might have been.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, no one was expecting the situation across the world to change so drastically.

Gavin's reply

Hi Edward Thanks for taking the time to leave me a review I'm glad to hear you have seen me as a good support, and that I have been able to advise you in so many areas over our time working together. Pensions and investments can be daunting, especially in the current climate, so it's great to know you trust me to take care of your interests I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Needed to feel confident that my finances were being controlled by a competent and qualified person within a well established company

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Continued satisfaction with advice and action taken as necessary.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes no complaints whatsoever

What could they have done better?

No improvement necessary

Gavin's reply

Hi Rosemary Thanks for leaving such a positive review! It's been a pleasure to help you gain more confidence in your finances, and I'm glad to have been able to support and help you achieve your goals. Our reputation speaks for itself, but hearing such amazing feedback from our loyal clients really gives us a boost! Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Forrester Boyds advisors came in the package with the company pension scheme.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

He as been helpful in attaining a good income from my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing more than he has done.Though I’ve not dealt with any other companies pension advisors.

Gavin's reply

Hi Paul Thanks for taking the time to leave a review It's vital to have someone you can trust assist with your pensions, as it's such an important part of planning for our future. I'm glad to hear I have been able to help you see the outcome you wanted, and give you the confidence in your finances at such an important time Looking forward to seeing you again Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

The security of advice in investing, the combination of being both employed and self employed for tax efficiency

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

With investment, pension and inheritance advice and management.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes apart from the poor performance of some investments at some times due to significant global event influence

Gavin's reply

Hi Carol Thanks for your review It's so important to me to know my clients and their situation, so I can give them a holistic approach to help them achieve the best outcome with their finances. I'm glad I was able to guide and support you in so many areas of your finances, including your pensions and investments, and I look forward to continued success Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

In 1990, receiving a legacy and needing advice about how to use it to provide for future family and retirement needs.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Providing ongoing advice and arranging investment to secure future financial needs and inheritance tax planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I feel the understanding of my circumstances and the advice are good.

Gavin's reply

Hi Jonathan Thank you for leaving such a positive review Helping my clients plan for their future, and for the future of their families, is one of the most important things we can do. I'm glad I have been able to give you peace of mind with your retirement and investments, and It's been great to hear I have been able to help you find the right options to achieve the outcome you were looking for Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

My husband was self employed and used F/B accountants who then put him in touch with the wealth management team to advise on retirement planning.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Yes he has told us about various aspects of the markets

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No

What could they have done better?

I don’t know, the markets are volatile at the best of times and at the moment they are not delivering a good return on our pension

Gavin's reply

Hi Irene Thank you for taking the time to leave a review Helping clients understand their investments, and giving them a clear understanding of their options and the market in general is very important to me, especially in the current climate. I'm glad to hear that you feel I have been able to clearly explain everything to you, and I hope with my continued guidance and support, you'll gain better confidence with your finances Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Invest Inheritance

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has helped me very much over the last few years and more recently in sorting investment sharing as per a court order.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but I'm hoping to over time.

What could they have done better?

Nothing much. I think it's been very difficult with the markets over the past few years.

Gavin's reply

Hi Steven Thanks for leaving this review In the current climate, it's more important than ever to have someone with your best interests in mind to help and guide you, so thank you for putting your faith in me. It's been an honour to be able to support you, and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Introduced by Mark Smith

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Telephone conversations

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Harold Thank you for taking the time to leave this review Communication with your adviser is so important, I hope you know that as well as face to face meetings, you can contact me by phone or email, whenever you have a query, or need to talk things through. I'm glad to hear that I have been able to help you see the results you were looking for, and I look forward to continued success Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Needed advice after inheriting an amount of money

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

We value that he is on hand if needed, have a least one yearly review, and found advice solid and helpful.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Gavin's reply

Hi Carolyn Thank you for such a positive review It's great to hear you know you can always contact me if you have any queries, or need to talk things through. Communication is so important to giving peace of mind, so it's vital to me that my clients know they can always contact me. I'm so pleased I've been able to help you see the results you were looking for, and I look forward to us seeing continued success together Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

There is a bewildering volume of financial advice offered to the public. I suspect that not all of this is reliable and much is offered by people with criminal intent. Forrester Boyd were my company accountants and auditors up to the time I retired due to ill health. They they provided an excellent service over many years. My retirement came far earlier than I had expected and I turned to them to provide me with advice on financial planning for my future. Over the last 24 years their advice has been excellent and my finances are now on a very firm footing.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has been giving my wife and I advice for some time. He has given us excellent advice regarding maximising our respective pension funds. He has also given us sound advice on the management of out investment portfolio, particularly stocks and shares ISAs which has grown nicely over time. Gavin has also given us useful advice regarding Inheritance planning which will hopefully minimise any tax liability in the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My wife and I are pleased with the quality of advice provided and now feel confident that our financial security is assured.

What could they have done better?

I can confidently say that none of the advice we have been given has negatively affected our financial situation.

Gavin's reply

Hi Tony Thanks for leaving such a positive review. Circumstances can change unexpectedly, so I'm so pleased to hear I have been able to help give you more confidence with your finances during these times. As you say, the world of finances can be daunting, so it's important to have someone you can trust to guide and support you, and help you find options that suit your individual circumstances. I'm happy to hear you now feel more confident with your finances, and I have been able to help you achieve your goals Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

I was reaching retirement age with a reasonable pension pot. I had no idea hpow to proceed for the future.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin was assigned to me after the departure of another FB colleague. I have had no great worries about this course of action.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have not seen the full outcome that I was hoping for but this is probably due to world events such a Covid and Ukraine. etc.

What could they have done better?

In hindsight nothing could have been done better.

Gavin's reply

Hi Nigel Thank you for this review I appreciate that retirement is a big change of lifestyle, so it's important to have someone you can trust to guide you to options that best suit your individual circumstances. , especially in the current climate. Thank you for putting your trust in me to support you, and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

A long family history of dealing with FB

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Understanding & advice tailored for my lifestyle

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I’m perfectly satisfied

Gavin's reply

Hi Christine Thank you for taking the time to leave such a positive review It's always great to hear when families recommend us. Our reputation for caring for our clients' best needs is paramount. It's vital to me to know my clients well, as this helps me to find the options that best suit your personal circumstances. I'm so happy I have been able to help you achieve your goals, and I look forward to us seeing continued success Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Recent retirement and a lump sum of money to invest

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Discussed inheritance tax issues and helped to explain my financial investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Mostly but last year wasn’t so good.

Gavin's reply

Hi Rachel Thanks for the review Retirement is a big change of lifestyle, so thank you for putting your trust in me to help you gain better understanding and confidence in your financial planning and investments. It's important to have someone you can trust to help guide you to options that suit your personal circumstances best, and it's been a privilege to have been able to do that for you I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Having a private pension Iwas move on to Forester boyd to a adviser who later retired then passed on to Gavin .

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has being there for me helping with all my questions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes Always help with my investment

What could they have done better?

No

Gavin's reply

Hi Alec Thank you for leaving such a great review So happy to hear that you know you can contact me for any queries, or if you need to talk anything through. It's important to me that my clients know I am here to support them and help them understand their options and investments. It's great to hear I have been able to help you see the outcome you were looking for, and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

To help plan the best strategy for my retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Yes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

To date I’m happy with how my investments are performing

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Jonathan Thank you for this review Planning for the future is so important, especially when preparing for such a big change like retirement. I'm glad to hear you're happy with how your investments are performing, and I hope I have been able to help you gain better confidence in your financial situation. I'm looking forward to assisting you further in the future, and continued success Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Advice on how to make the best possible return on finance

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Under circumstances, the best possible outcome

What could they have done better?

Do not know

Gavin's reply

Hi Gordon Thank you for this review Financial security in retirement is important for peace of mind for the future, especially in the current economic climate. I hope I have been able to give you the support and guidance to help you gain more confidence and understanding in your finances and investments, and I look forward to ongoing success Thanks Gavin

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gavin

Knowledgeable, friendly and very willing to explain simple details to someone with virtually no experience of financial management!

Gavin's reply

Hi James Thanks for the review. Great to hear I've been able to give you some clarity with your finances. It's a key part of my job to support my clients and give them the guidance and information to understand their options, so I'm thrilled to hear I have been able to do this for you Look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

The change in pension laws in 2015 meant I got control of my pension pot. My company recommended FB and do I agreed.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin (and his predecessor) spent time to assess my views on risk and found a really good scheme (Royal London) which has continued to provide a good income without numerical loss to the value of the fund. What more do you need?

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Actually a better outcome. Maintaining the fund value was a bonus on top of my monthly pension drawdown.

What could they have done better?

Really, nothing. Gavin has checked for better investment opportunities with the same risk level and has found none. He continues to check that no better fund has emerged and reviews the results with me from time to time.

Gavin's reply

Hi David Thank you for taking the time to leave this review Preparing for retirement is so important for planning for the future, so I'm glad you have been able to gain more confidence in your financial situation, and been able to see the outcome you have wanted. I always strive to find the best options for my clients, while keeping their individual circumstances in mind, I hope we continue to see the success you have seen so far, and I look forward to us working together in the future Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Being advised by my wonderful accountant, David Everatt, that I should be doing this now!

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Very easy to talk to and to explain things I don’t understand. Very helpful with particular circumstances of my pension and my needs

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Don’t know, haven’t got it yet!

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I’m aware of.

Gavin's reply

Hi Charlotte Thanks for this review It's important to me that clients are confident in understanding their options, as I think this is the best way of them making the decisions that best suit their needs and circumstances. I'm glad to have been able to guide you and explain your options to you clearly. I'm looking forward to helping you see the outcomes you are hoping for in the future Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Forrester Boyd were the advisor recommended by my employer

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Advised on transfer to ISAs to gain tax advantage on draw down

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Peter Thanks for the review! I'm glad to hear you have seen the outcome you were hoping for. There are so many options on the market, that it's important to find someone who can find the right ones for your individual circumstances and needs. I'm glad I have been able to guide and support you, and I look forward to our ongoing success together Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Retired with a pension pot and private shares.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Advised me on pension provider selection and savings investment Also provided tax advice on buy to let property.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really. Annual meeting held to review all financial matters.

Gavin's reply

Hi Richard I appreciate you taking the time to leave this review I'm happy to have been able to help you with so many areas of your financial planning. Finding the right pension provider can be difficult, with so many options on the market, so it's always great to find someone who can guide you to options that best suit your individual circumstances and needs. I'm glad I have been able to do this for you. Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

Retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Investing lump sum

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Due to COVID and the Russia Ukraine war unfortunately not.

What could they have done better?

No idea.

Gavin's reply

Hi Colin Thank you for taking the time to leave this review, I appreciate it. I realise retirement is a big change to lifestyle, so it's important to find someone who can help to guide you to the best options to suit your circumstances and goals. Thank you for putting your trust in me to support you, and I look forward to future success Thanks Gavin

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Gavin

Very polite, informative and helpful discussions

Gavin's reply

Hi Ian Thanks for taking the time to leave this review. I'm glad to hear you found our first meeting helpful, and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

June, 2023

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

having been in business,with help from my accountant, I felt I needed a guiding hand to make the best out of my retirement.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

he has confirmed that my basic strategy was OK,and advised when a adjustment was required.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Given the volatility of the financial markets I think things have gone reasonably well

What could they have done better?

nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Bruce Thank you for leaving such a great review It's important to me that my clients are confident with their decisions, and have a good understanding of their options, so it's great to hear I have been able to give you reassurance with your retirement plan. It's vital to me that my clients are given the right tools to plan for the future, and feel comfortable to talk things through with me anytime. Thanks for putting your trust in me, and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

May, 2023

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

This was part of the package that my Employer negotiated with FB Wealth Management in establishing occupational pension package and since my retirement 5 years ago Gavin has handled the management of my Pension Fund.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

He has provided detailed information on Fund performance, arranged drawdowns and answered all queries I have raised about performance More importantly he has given me the confidence that I am dealing with an Advisor who knows his business well and that I can rely on him to maximise performance of the Fund promptly when market conditions allow it.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No but that is due to market downturn and not Advisor performance

What could they have done better?

In the current market situation I dont believe anything could have been done better.

Gavin's reply

Hi James Thanks for the great review and kind words It's always great to hear that I have been able to give my clients the understanding and confidence they need in their finances. I always strive to find the best options for my clients, as well as to support them in their choices, and make sure that they have clear information to help give them reassurance and peace of mind, so I'm thrilled I have been able to do this for you. Look forward to speaking to you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

May, 2023

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

Gavin has acted as financial advisor to other members of my family

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has been a wonderful advisor. I really appreciate his thoughtful approach that takes my specific individual circumstances into consideration when giving advice and proposing plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I feel confident in the performance of my portfolio and trust the decisions agreed with FB.

Gavin's reply

Hi Samantha Thanks for such a great review Knowing my clients is one of the most important parts of my job, so I can help to guide them to the options that suit them best, and give them the information to make the best decision for their circumstances Thanks for such kind words, and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

May, 2023

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

Having sold a high value asset

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Very good advice and always available when needed advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Elsebeth Thank you for leaving this review, it's very much appreciated It's great to hear that you know you can contact me anytime, as communication is so important to be able to give my clients peace of mind. It's my job to help support you in your financial planning, so I hope I have been able to give you the clarity and understanding to have confidence in your finances, Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

My family have been with FB as accountants for many decades and we naturally turned to them when it came to needing planning for retirement and IHT

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Yes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Well I’m not dead yet…

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Gavin's reply

Hi Charlotte Thanks for your review Planning for the future is so important. From considering Inheritance Tax to planning your retirement, there are so many options out there. Thank you for putting your trust in me to help guide you to the best options to suit your circumstances and goals and I look forward to seeing you again soon Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

February, 2023

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

My Private pension

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin is a very able person

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes in the main

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I am aware of

Gavin's reply

Hi Agnar Thank you for your review, I really appreciate it There are a lot of options for pension providers, so thanks for putting your trust in me to help you find the best options to suit your circumstances. I'm glad I have been able to support you achieving your goals, and I look forward to seeing future success Thanks Gavin

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

to make sure that my investments were in line with my goals and my pensions were in the right place

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

he has made sure of the above

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

in light of the market turmoil not much

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

I had a sum of money from an inheritance I wanted to invest

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Yes, he has given me good advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No not really,but this is not the fault of Gavin ,more the fault of world events

What could they have done better?

The costs of running the port folio seems a little high ,I think they could be looked at and maybe reduced

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Used FB Wealth as my advisor as a 'perk' from my employer who used them. The previous FB contact retired and Gavin took over.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Established contact and discussed my finances and aims. Advised me on tax issues and pension options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Generally no but mostly due to international issues rather than poor advice.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I am aware of.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Looking to invest money and plan for retirement.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has always been really patient and taken time to explain everything thoroughly which has been incredibly helpful to someone who has very little understanding of savings and investments

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes have been as expected.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

when my husband retired

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

explaining to myself what is best for my husband and my self through difficult times .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes thank you

What could they have done better?

everything was done that could be done

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Personal pension advice, investment and drawdown

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Simple and easy to understand advice on how to make sure I have a comfortable retirement income

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything, all my needs were and are continued to be met

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Forrester Boyd were the Auditors for the Company i worked for and they were The Pension Scheme advisors. when i retired Ian Simpson was the Pensioner advisor for my Pension Scheme with Royal London. Gavin Smart took over and has been very good in our Annual meetings proving information and future forecasts for the low/medium risk that was suitable for my Pension demands .

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

see above

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

results were good regarding Royal London but Gavin gave good advice regarding transferring to Scottish Widows. unfortunately in the last 12 months the results have not been good but that is due to the current situation and over time they will improve

What could they have done better?

see above

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Been with company for years and trust you.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Brilliant- Best ever adviser although Ian previous was excellent.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely not. it was a shock that my safe option of investments of my pension in Government gilt edged bonds has this year because of Liz Truss total incompetent Chancellor Quasi Modo has wiped off £44,669 off my pension value this year and as a result I am now looking for a park time employment - which definitely was NOT in my retirement plan, just to make up the shortfall over the next 10 years. Devastated.

What could they have done better?

Moving me to Scottish wWidows from Royal Life was a good move I thought but retirement penned income taken a big hit after only 4 months of starting to draw my main pension.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Multiple private pensions that needed review to ensure best potential for growth prior to retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Advice on early retirement financial planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

The Chatterton family have used the services of FB for years.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has been really helpful & supportive in guiding/advising in all areas & especially in these last few turbulent financial years.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes as much as one can considering the state of the world at the moment

What could they have done better?

I’m unable to to question, or, criticise as I feel they’ve done their best.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

I did not fully understand my pension options.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Explained fully my options and likely outcomes. Also sorted out any minor snags promptly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

do not think I could have done any better.

What could they have done better?

Nothing in a nutshell!

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Needed advice and help on an inheritance and where to put the investments, that suited us.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Always contacts us at least yearly for a review. A very pleasant man who understands our needs and very easy to deal with.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Very happy to continue with his service

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Needed to prepare for future and retirement.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has given us sound advice and has been extremely helpful.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing...they are brilliant.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

I needed advice on pension providers, especially in relation to choosing ethical and green companies.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has patiently researched and provided the information I needed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely

What could they have done better?

Can’t think of anything!

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Some decades ago a family legacy led my wife and I to seek advice about how to invest it and to set up appropriate investments for our young children. Gavin Smart has taken on our portfolio from his astute predecessor.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

He has understood our circumstances and objectives and continued to provide appropriate advice and action.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I am satisfied with the performance of the investments which Gavin Smart has recommended and put in place.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Retirement and personal pension plans

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

He recommended a change to Scottish Widows.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am not sure what outcome I was expecting.

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Reviewing my financial position upon retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gave clear advice on how to invest and differentiating between capital growth and income, and discussing my attitude to risk when deciding my investment strategy.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am happy with the advice I have been given. The outcome is dictated to a large extent by economic events beyond the control of a financial advisor.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

December, 2022

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

Retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Listened to are requirements

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

I was retiring and knew Gavin's former colleague through the company I was working for and chose FB to manage my pension : Gavin took his place when he retired too.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has reviewed my account every year since he took over and spent time answering all my questions well.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I feel that my account has been well looked after

What could they have done better?

Maybe offer advice when sudden downturns happened

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Security of money for pension

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

By advising us o best return possible

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Best possible in current climate

What could they have done better?

Do not know,the is why we rely on Gavin

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Needed help with advice on how best to invest saving’s.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

By advising on investments to suit my attitude to risk , and the annual review is extremely helpful and easy to understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Required advice on my pension and investments.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Provided expert advice in setting up my portfolio for retirement in a way that I could understand.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My investment and pension outcome are what I hoped for even with the volatile markets.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Needed advice on savings and investments

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Sound advice always keeps us up to date with what works better for us

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes until the recent crash

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

My yearly review

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

As advised me on my pension and how to obtain my tax free allowance

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

No gavin as always help me in the past and up to date

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Annual post-employment pension reviews.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

By having good access to a wide range of financial resources.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I believe so to date.

What could they have done better?

I really have no idea.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Planning for retirement then implementing retirement

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has listened to what we wanted to achieve and facilitated how we could achieve this

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes within the current circumstances

What could they have done better?

There has been nothing extra that I have required at the present time

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Had advice from gavin's employer through my employer. Carried on using them when I retired.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Financial planning,investment advice,pensions advice and general tax issues.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Initially yes but losses lately due to Ukraine,Covid and our political issues

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I know of.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Pensions back in the mid nineties. I had been badly advised by my previous Pensions Broker, and started to use services of Mark Smith at FB.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Advised on on one investment to save tax on withdrawals

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I think so bearing in mind current turbulent times.

What could they have done better?

Not a lot

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Personal investment, pension, tax , inheritance , becoming widowed.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Good patient clear explanation, always looking for options to move change or update investments to maximise investment and particularly now to carefully consider inheritance and tax management involved to my children’s advantage.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes until the recent global financial chaos which affects us all.

What could they have done better?

I don’t think he could have and what I have had is frequent advice about how to manage recent dramatic changes

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Lack of personal expertise

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Given very good advice and enabled me to make financial decisions more confidently,

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I am happy with everything they have done.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Although I have a fair knowledge of financial matters through my training in economics, I felt that it was lacking in depth. I do not have time to research investment opportunities myself.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has been very pro-active in giving advice on my investment portfolio and minimising the amount of tax payable on my estate upon my demise.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am very pleased with the growth of my portfolio.

What could they have done better?

nothing, to the best of my knowledge.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Having been a personal Client of the Forrester Boyd organisation for over 50 years and with my parents recommendation as Clients themselves, there has not been need to look any further .

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Respect his carefully explained advice whenever we have contact.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With the current volatility in the World and not forgetting the many UK present Government issues, I get a fair and reasonable income from a wide range of investments in my opinion.

What could they have done better?

No improvement necessary.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Needed to invest inheritance money to plan for retirement.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has provided advise in several different areas to suit my needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, but I realise that markets haven't performed great over the last couple of years. Without good advice this could have been a disaster rather than just a poor performance.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Having sold my business back in Feb 2021 and retired, my wife and I needed advice on planning for retirement and investments.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin helped us to spread our risk through a variety of investments, and gave us a better understanding of the income we could draw down without leaving ourselves with a shortfall in the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not really, but that’s not Gavin’s fault. Our investments have shown no growth due to the war in Ukraine and cost of living crisis in the UK.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really, Gavin was honest from the start and explained we need to take the long term view. History tells us after every bad spell in the markets, they always recover.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

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

Forrester Boyd were involved with my Group's Pension Scheme. When I retired some 9 years ago choosing FB to look after my interests seemed the natural thing to do. Clearly advisers have changed as we move on but the service remains and generally improves.

How has Gavin Smart helped you?

Gavin has helped with giving advice at times when I thought that my investment portfolio was not working for me. I was wrong. I have stuck with Gavin's advice which is proving the right way. He is alsways availbale to deal with my queries.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

es-slowly but surely we are getting there.

What could they have done better?

I would have preferred an early opinion before entering times when my investments were likely to fall substantially. This may have prevented me from 'over reacting' and setting up unnecessary communication