Tom Saleh

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

Bringing several pension pots together Need to find a Financial Advisor (firm/Individual) i can trust and have a personal relationship with, unlike large organiations

How has Tom Saleh helped you?

Provided a sounding board for my ideas Provided sound advice on pension investment strategy Provided sound advice on Drawdown v Annuity

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far, so good, but a lot depends on market performance

What could they have done better?

Not sure!

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

To investigate the possibility of retiring early

How has Tom Saleh helped you?

Recommended suitable pension fund and coordinated pension plan

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Although the initial cost of setting up and transferring the pension was a direct hit on the portfolio value the longer term performance has been much greater than either of us expected.

What could they have done better?

Document and circulate actions arising from meetings - including timelines. Provide examples of how the portfolio could be drawn down including early years versus later years.

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

We took advice on financial matters initially from our bank in the 1980s and 1990s. Unfortunately, this fell short of the regulations resulting in prolonged correspondence and telephone calls which realised compensatory arrangements being made. We then turned to our Building Society which served us well. Our savings were not exceptional at that time but reflected our efforts and were irreplaceable. Over fifty years and latterly, they became more significant should errors be made in finding suitable investment opportunities. After considerable enquiries, I contacted Forrester Boyd to discuss matters which resulted in an initial meeting during which our requirements were assessed. We were then presented with a financial plan that we discussed and accepted. Regular reviews along with "one off" enquiries ensure that our goals are met with any changes in circumstances. Our investments through Forrester Boyd continue to meet our lifestyle and show healthy growth in line with our level of risk.

How has Tom Saleh helped you?

In all aspects of our finances using straightforward plain English. Ensuring we understand the investments, our pension arrangements, whether we need extra income, that we have readily available funds, etc.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Tom

Although we have only had a telephone conversation and an initial meeting with Tom he has proved to be most helpful and it is at last a pleasure to talk to someone who knows the financial requirements that we need and has a plan to achieve them. Having spoken with financial advisors in the past and been left disappointed with their lack of information and knowledge on the subject, this made me cautious approaching Tom. Tom however soon demonstrated his knowledge and professionalism which was most refreshing and we are pleased he is helping with our financial requirements.

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

Income from house sale invested to support retirement planning

How has Tom Saleh helped you?

Discussed my options and priorities. Advised investment options in line with my priorities

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Ongoing, but so far so good!

What could they have done better?

Nothing