Sophia Bell

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

I was looking to consolidate a number of private pension schemes whose performance had detiorated significantly in recent years as I approached my 60s and the 'investment models' reduced exposure to more volatile investments; however, given the economic climate this eroded my pension values. Self managing was not permitted in some schemes so a solution was needed to address the declining performance.

How has Sophia Bell helped you?

Sophia quickly understood that I am well versed in investment and financial planning as a businessman but not in terms of personal pension planning. With Sophia's guidance we were able to identify & prioritise my requirements, consolidate my pension portfolio, invest in a way I consider meets both my future financial needs and returns control of my investments & financial planning. I particularly appreciate Sophia's candidness, considered advice and in a couple of cases tenacity in delivering all of this.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Whilst this is early days I am very happy with both the process and analysis undertaken and the outcome is exactly what i set out to achieve with Sophia's help.

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

looking to retire soon and wanted to maximise income from my Pension.

How has Sophia Bell helped you?

Explained options. Looked at my current savings and pension plan. Provided a detailed plan with regular reviews both via e-mails and calls to achieve a more beneficial package with built in safe guards. I would not have had the financial confidence to achieve this without Sophia help and guidance.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Still work in progress but near the completion. I am very happy with the projected outcome.

What could they have done better?

No, any delays have been on my part.

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

To help me navigate my Pension options as I had a number of pensions from different companies.

How has Sophia Bell helped you?

Sophia helped me to understand how each of my current pensions worked and what I could do or not do with them. Also the best way to mange them. All was explained in simple non jargon language which helped.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have seen the outcome I wanted. As I know what my options are and if I am on track.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

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

I decided that I would take equity release on my home as opposed to sell down. Aviva was the company I choose after careful research and Sophia was appointed my adviser.

How has Sophia Bell helped you?

After research I decided that draw down would probably suit my needs best. Sophia made visits to my home which suited me perfectly to have one to one contact. My situation was discussed and she advised that draw down was the best way forward. We then went through my annual expenditure to establish my needs to top my state pension etc.Sophia also looked into whether I was legible for any state credits in addition to what I as receiving. All the possible disadvantages were discussed in detail as well as comprehensive paperwork sent for me to red.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Sophia suggested figures etc for equity drawdown which I accepted and within a matter of weeks the first cash sum was deposited into my bank account.

What could they have done better?

Nothing could have been better.Sophia was helpful ,and very efficient guiding me through the process.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Sophia

We found Sofia to be positively engaging both professionally and personally....definitely CEO material.