Reviewed for
Insurance and Protection ( 6 )
Mortgages ( 1 )
Pensions ( 18 )
Equity Release ( 4 )
Retirement income (annuities, drawdown) ( 8 )
Investments and Savings ( 15 )
Pension Transfers - Non Specialist ( 4 )
Inheritance Planning ( 6 )
Long Term Care ( 4 )
Pension Transfers - Specialist ( 3 )
Financial Planning ( 9 )
Financial Mentoring ( 3 )
Reviewers' assets
£500k+ ( 2 )
£200k - £500k ( 2 )
£100k - £200k ( 3 )
£50k - 100k ( 1 )
Up to £50k ( 5 )
Client reviews
Review from verified client
March, 2024
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Planning my retirement
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Given me confidence to take the next step
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
100%
What could they have done better?
I’m very satisfied
Review from verified client
July, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Decided I needed to look at my pensions and maybe combine them.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
With my pension and given me clear helpful advice
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Erica's reply
Thank you Tina, always enjoy our meetings.
Review from verified client
July, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My employer had been helpful in setting up pension planning sessions with a Wealth Management company as I approach retirement age, but with so many options I wanted to see what my full range of alternatives was from someone who was not simply doing a scripted presentation but understood our financial circumstances and attitude to risk with our pension and saving sums.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica has been a pleasure to meet and provided us with clear concise and calm advice on the full range of options open to us during the tumultuous period following last years ‘mini budget’. We are very pleased to have found someone we have every confidence in to advise us both as we approach our retirement and, in the years, ahead.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes indeed. Erica has been a pleasure to meet and provided us with clear concise and calm advice on the full range of options open to us. She ensured that our pension transfers were handled smoothly and professionally and that we can securely monitor their progress at any time we choose with a few simple clicks online.
What could they have done better?
Nothing.
Erica's reply
Thank you Clive, hope you can look forward to retirement with confidence.
Review from verified client
April, 2023
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My husband and I have accumulated several pensions throughout our working lives. We required advice on how to manage them as we will soon be approaching retirement age.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica assessed all the paperwork we held during a prearranged home visit. She clarified each individual pension and explained all details and possible results.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Following Erica's visit, we have an understanding of our policies and now feel confident that we can make positive decisions about our retirement. After the meeting we were both impressed and satisfied.
Erica's reply
Thank you Michelle; I enjoyed our meeting and I'm so glad you found it useful.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My employer had put me in touch with a Wealth Management Company as I approached retirement, but I wanted to check out alternatives. Friends and family have been with St James’s Place for some years and were very happy with the service and results.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica has been a pleasure to meet and provided clear concise advice on the full range of options open to us.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
The turmoil in financial markets following the September ‘mini budget’ and almost daily major events in following weeks delayed our final date to instigate the transfer so we wait to see the benefits. However, Erica has been very patient, and we have every confidence in her. We are very pleased to have found someone to advise us during these testing times.
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Erica's reply
Thank you Clive, I'm looking forward to working with you going forward to help you achieve a long and successful retirement.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
We moved house and wanted to ensure our family, health and our mortgage were protected.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica conducted a thorough assessment of our needs and was able to present options around how we could best protect ourselves.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes - we now have appropriate protection in place to cover our liabilities and future lives.
What could they have done better?
Nothing - the support and service was excellent
Erica's reply
Thank you Jeff, really appreciate your kind comments.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I’m retiring and wanted someone to advise on next phase of life.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Given me the confidence that I can afford to retire and step away from world of work.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yep, Erica's added insight and detail with a cash-flow analysis detailing how my money will last throughout retirement.
What could they have done better?
N/A
Erica's reply
Thank you Andrew, I'm really enjoying helping you plan for a great retirement.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Changes in personal circumstances.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Consistently providing sound financial advice.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
Erica's reply
Thank you Emma, looking forward to catching up with you in 2023!
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
We required a financial adviser for protection purposes. Myself and my family were moving to a larger property and needed some financial advice around mortgage and income protection.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica discussed and explained in detail what was required to ensure my family and I were covered through various scenarios.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Most definitely! Myself and my husband feel a lot more at ease, knowing our family has the right cover for 'us' in place. Thank you Erica for your time and expertise. We would totally recommend to friends and family!
What could they have done better?
Nothing - the service and advice as been exceptional.
Review from verified client
December, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I'm self employed and looked at sorting my pension by myself but it was a minefield and I knew I would need someone to guide me through the process.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica took into consideration my morals and values when it comes to investing money and my budget for what I could afford to pay on a monthly basis. She was kind and professional and even listened to me moan about ongoing issues!
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes I have a pension package that I trust and my money is in the right place.
Erica's reply
Thank you Carrie, you are a joy to work with and I look forward to seeing you again soon.
Review from verified client
September, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Need to review my finances
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Looked at my suitation and made recommendations
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
I have taken her advise
Erica's reply
Thank you for your kind comments Liz. You are a pleasure to work with.
Review from verified client
September, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Kent
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My accountants advised me to seek the services of a financial advisor based on my company bank account balance, my income and my personal circumstances.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica has revied income, assets, discussed plans in depth and helped me to invest in both pension and ISAs. Each time I've spoken to Erica she has taken the time to understand my circumstances and plans, and identified products that complement my needs and plans.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes, I have invested in two areas (ISA and pension) and I am happy with the outcome of both
What could they have done better?
I can't think of anything Erica could have done better. When circumstances changed due to covid, Erica listened to my changing circumstances and adapted reviews accordingly, so my experience of Erica has been positive throughout.
Erica's reply
Thank you for your kind comments Nick. Our regular reviews will ensure that we keep on top of the changes you are undergoing at present.
Review from verified client
September, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Suffolk
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My father was living at home with 24 hour care, and his finances were draining away. Erica helped me through a very difficult time to work out the best way forward.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Her help was brilliant, it is very hard to see the wood from the trees when you are emotionally involved at the same time as trying to do the best for a loved one.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Sadly my father has now passed away, but I will be asking her to help when his affairs have finally been sorted. I trust her implicitly.
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Erica's reply
Thank you for your kind words Jacqui. I know it was a very difficult time for you and I really wanted to give you some practical help to try and ease the burden. I hope it helped, if only a little.
Review from verified client
August, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
To sort out a pension
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica has made it easier for me to understand what sort of pension I had and what’s the best way to make the pension work for me
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes and having price of mind that my pension is being looked after
What could they have done better?
Nothing everything I asked for has been done
Erica's reply
Thank you Kim, our regular reviews will help to ensure you remain on track.
Review from verified client
March, 2022
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I had recently gone self employed and was no longer in the workplace pension so knew I had to make provisions
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Not only did Erica give me really good advice and talked me through my pension options, she looked at my full financial situation and was able to advise on products that I needed and that I did not even know existed. Erica is always flexible and was able to arrange appointments around my work often into the evenings or rearranged at the last minute (by me). Erica is also on top of the timescales and reminds me when decisions have to be made so I do not need to worry.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
Nothing it is a really good service.
Erica's reply
Thank you for your lovely comments Claire. I really want you to achieve that amazing retirement! Working with you is a dream as you are always receptive to ideas and this has enabled me to help you protect your lifestyle as well as plan for your retirement.
Review from verified client
December, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I inherited a unit trust that was held with St James’s Place Wealth Management and Erica is one of their Partners who are employed to manage the clients investments.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica looked at my overall investment portfolio and discussed with me my financial situation - income, expenses etc - what I wanted to achieve, risks level, ISA etc and she then reconfigured my investment to better meet my needs.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
Nothing
Erica's reply
Thank you Jane, just the start! Look forward to working with you in the future.
Review from verified client
December, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
A separation & subsequent divorce
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica helped me to plan my finances & feel confident in everyday expenses during a very emotional time. She made me feel more secure in a very traumatic time with the help & advice she gave me
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
No improvement could have been made. Incredibly happy with the service & support Erica has given me.
Erica's reply
Thank you for you lovely comments Amanda. You are a pleasure to work with.
Review from verified client
December, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Establishing own company
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica provided detailed advice, a very personable service and actioned requests promptly and clearly
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes, currently happy with performance.
What could they have done better?
N/A
Erica's reply
Thank you Gemma, good to be working with you to help achieve your retirement goals.
Review from verified client
December, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Needed to plan for my pension.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica listened to me and gave me appropriate feedback and advice.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
Erica's reply
Thank you Angela
Review from verified client
September, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Going through a divorce and needed financial advisor.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica has been very helpful by exploring all the options available to me. Her advice has been an enormous help to me and taken a weight off my mind. I have no hesitation in recommending her to future clients.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes very much so.
What could they have done better?
There isn't anything that could be better as every detail was explained and always there is you needed advice.
Erica's reply
Thank you for your kind comments Karen; this is just the start of the journey!
Review from verified client
August, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Planning for the future
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Erica has taken the time to know us and build trust. She provides outstanding service based on our needs both now and in the future. Highly recommended.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes
What could they have done better?
Nothing at all
Erica's reply
Thank you for your lovely comments Gill. I really enjoy working with you and Steve, helping you to plan for a great retirement!
Review from verified client
July, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My Stepmother needed money for repairs around the house, wanted to draw down money from her investments
How has Erica Hay helped you?
I spoke to Erica during the lockdown at the beginning of the year, she came over on the phone as very approachable and understood exactly what we were trying to achieve. However circumstances with covid meant we couldnt get together until May, Erica rang to make an appointment just before lockdown ended and we had a very good and informative meeting.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Not as yet still ongoing
What could they have done better?
Absolutely nothing Erica has been very helpful all the way through
Erica's reply
Thank you John for your kind comments.
Review from verified client
June, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My plan was to gather all my pensions together and make one pension pot. Using Erica Hay we were able to complete this task. Previously we were trying to do this ourselves and found it very difficult to achieve.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
I found that Erica Hay had the skills and knowledge to be able to help us join all the pensions together.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Using Erica Hay was the best way i found to get all my pensions in one place.
What could they have done better?
There was nothing Erica Hay could have done better. It was perfect.
Erica's reply
Thank you Roy, it's good to see you enjoying retirement and using your pension fund for the little extras and to help your family.
Review from verified client
June, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I had some maturing investments which I wanted to reinvest, but not with the company I currently use.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
"I have known Erica for several years as she used to be my financial adviser at Lloyds bank. I hold her in the highest possible esteem both professionally and personally."
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes.
What could they have done better?
I can't think of anything offhand.
Erica's reply
Thank you Elliott, I hope to work with you for many more years to come.
Review from verified client
June, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
Loss of my husband which resulted in a considerable change in my finances.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
"Erica has given me excellent advice over the many years I have known her. Her knowledge of products available is extensive and she will always explain the products in detail and in a way that you can understand. I would very much recommend her to anyone for good sound advice."
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Yes the advice has been positive for the many years I have known Erica Hay, she understands my needs financially and never has any problems discussing any questions which may arise.
What could they have done better?
I feel the service Erica offers is spot on and cannot think of anything that could be done better.
Erica's reply
Thank you for your kind comments Elaine. Look forward to seeing you this week face to face! Our regular phone chats during lockdown just haven't been the same.
Review from verified client
June, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
My husband died and i needed help. After researching advisors i was fortunate to find Erica.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
Because of the exceptional support I have received from Erica over 25 years, I face the future with confidence. Erica has always made sure I have under stood the effect of financial regulations, tax changes etc. on my personal situation She has then given me excellent, sound and trustworthy advice based on my needs and interests. I do not hesitate in recommending Erica to anyone.
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Erica carried out all that I had hoped for and for so much else as well. Erica has not only kept a keen eye on financial matters with me, she has also gently suggested that I have seen to my Will and all the other things which will be needed by my children. I am heading towards old age with confidence.
What could they have done better?
Nothing.
Erica's reply
Thank you Kathryn. Working with you since 1993 has been an absolute pleasure and I'm looking forward to many more years.
Review from verified client
June, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Hertfordshire
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I required someone to have knowledge and experience to make sure my money was invested in the right way, Erica was introduced to me and i felt completely comfortable with how she explained how she could help me.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
"This was our first time looking into our future investments and Erica was very helpful explaining what we should do, how it works and answered any questions we had. We have now started investments for our children too to help them in the future. I would recommend Erica to any friends or family looking to invest their money."
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
Due to Covid we haven't seen what we expected but thankfully we haven't lost anything which is just as important.
What could they have done better?
Nothing.
Erica's reply
Thank you Scott, I'm sending you some information that you may find interesting.
Review from verified client
June, 2021
Overall
Advice
Service
Value
Based in Essex
What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?
I was aware of the ever changing financial markets. I felt I needed the professional knowledge of SJP and in particular Erica's expertise and strong work ethic came through the moment I met her. I had the confidence to proceed in changing my investment plans as a result.
How has Erica Hay helped you?
"Erica is an extremely well-informed, professional lady, who shared her knowledge and expertise with me, offering sound advice re: my financial situation. As a result, I feel confident and trusting enough of her judgement to make my own informed choices and next steps, knowing she is on hand anytime."
Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?
I am currently extremely happy in my investment with SJP and Erica in particular in keeping me well informed. The current 'Covid time outcomes' are still an unknown but I am confident that my investments are safe and achieving positive results.
What could they have done better?
I find this question not applicable as I'm assured the decisions made on my behalf have been the best way forward for me personally.
Erica's reply
Thank you Barbara, I always enjoy our meetings.