Helen Brown

Review from verified client

August, 2024

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

Following the takeover of my previous advisers by a much larger company the service offered was impersonal and di not meet my needs.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen's advice and professionalism which was offered on a personal basis helped to make the transfer of my representation extremely easy and satisfying.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2024

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Found Helen professional and helpful.

Review from verified client

August, 2024

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

Maturing fixed term Annuity with lump sum.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

She has researched the market place for the best products which pay out the highest return for the maturity pot.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the company recommended by Helen gave me a higher return than the existing provider was offering.Exce

What could they have done better?

No issues. Excellent, professional & friendly service.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2024

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Helen was recommended to me. I am extremely pleased to have followed her advice.

Review from verified client

May, 2024

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

Pension annuity advice

How has Helen Brown helped you?

In a highly professional and competent way. I felt reassured through-out

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

April, 2024

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

To determine the most tax efficient way to access my three personal pension funds.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen worked with my existing scheme managers to consolidate the funds into a SIPP. Helen then set up an income drawdown schedule with the SIPP provider which made best use of my position as a non taxpayer.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

An income drawdown schedule has been established and the first payment has been successfully completed. I believe that Helen has established the most favourable pension scheme for my circumstances.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

April, 2024

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

I was fortunate enough to change job and receive a significant salary uplift. I wanted to understand the best options for investing the additional income.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen helped me to understand my appetite for risk and to explain the various investment options. She also undertook research of various pension schemes and identified the most appropriate pension plan to invest in. She did a great job of explaining why it was the most appropriate option and took time to explain the various costs, benefits and risks.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I have been able to make maximum use of my annual pension allowance and I'm confident that it invested in the most appropriate plan.

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

semi retirement after selling business and having a lump sum to invest for income. needed trusted and realistic financial advice.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Over view of savings, pensions and ISAs with advice and implementing of investments. A service which allows me to review with Helen's help periodically rather than the need for constant consideration. A balanced and trusted portfolio of investments achieved in order to get capital growth and income with balanced risk.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

achieved overhaul of finances as needed and starting to see the benefits.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Helen helped me with a pension transfer as part of a divorce.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen has listened to my financial circumstances and has put in place the pension best for me. She answers questions quickly and is very approachable.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Before retiring I needed to organise savings and pensions for my future needs.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

For the last 10 years she has advised me, and managed my investments as family circumstances changed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes- Everything is organised in a professional manner. Helen is very knowledgeable, and all staff are friendly and helpful.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

I needed to invest my pension

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen discussed my needs and advised me

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

My husband had a forgotten pension of an substational amount.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen advised us of the best options available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Works pension after retiring through ill healthM

How has Helen Brown helped you?

More or less done everything for me Very helpfull

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

More or less just waiting for response from pension provider

What could they have done better?

Done everything perfect for me

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

We needed to get a better return on our spare funds.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

She took us through a good process of our present and future requirements. Assessed our view on level of risk and presented us with a number of options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It’s too early to tell with regard to returns but all the investments and structures have been quickly and efficiently put in place.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Divorce

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Assisted in many aspects of helping understanding financial matters, taken considerable time and effort putting into place the new policy’s.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

I wanted to consolidate a number of private pensions into a single SIPP.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen worked hard with all the pension providers and with my chosen SIPP provider to consolidate the pensions, making it much easier for me to review and use my pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. It's been a good experience, with Helen guiding me through the process and with her managing the transfers.

What could they have done better?

Nothing really. Comms were good, and the result is excellent so far.

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Having multiple pension schemes I decided that I wanted them all rolled into one. Unsure as to whether this could be achieved I decided to seek advice.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen was professional throughout the process and listened to my concerns. Being a person who doesn't understand pensions she spoke in a way that I could understand and make the correct decision.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am now in a position were I understand my pension and future finances.

What could they have done better?

Helen was very understanding of my circumstances and I could not have hoped for any more than what was done for me.

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

There was a need for me to take professional advice to make better use of my assets. I was recommended to Phillip Bates and Co by a close and trusted friend.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen has reviewed my circumstances, both financial and personal, and made recommendations that have enabled me to make better use of my assets and plan for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Although it is still early days, I have been pleased with the outcomes to date.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

I was looking to take early retirement and required expert advice on the way forward in converting several pension pots accumulated over the years. My wife also had a defined benefits plan that we required advice on.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen collated all the individual pension into an investment portfolio which gave a monthly draw down and also advised on taking tax free lump sums that were available on the each plan. Helen also advised my wife to start drawing down her pension as it had reached it's full potential due to length of service and the employer would no longer be adding to the pot.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes completely.

What could they have done better?

No, I received excellent advice and service and it is still ongoing

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Helen was professional and helpful

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Helen made me feel very comfortable and not pushy at all.

Review from verified client

March, 2022

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

Transfer of pensions into one invested bundle

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen was / is outstanding Well versed in pensions and investment schemes and has a great team behind her- most notably Steph!

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely

What could they have done better?

Not at all Outstanding and good fun to work with!

Review from verified client

January, 2022

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

To access and merge two pension pots, how to drawdown the pension.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Initial meeting was to discuss my circumstances, future plans and pension advice on merging two pensions. Helen was thorough and provided IAG for me to consider. Second meeting was to commit to the merging process and Helen provided IAG to support this, all information provided was easy for me to understand. Helen provided advice on planning and accessing drawdown, and a lot of other relevant advice along the way. Really good response and reply to emails.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, most definitely. I had time to think and digest information, appointments were made to process the merging. Correspondence has been clear via contract forms, updates and emails. Everything has been processed in a timely and efficient manner. I instant have access to view my pension growth and development.

What could they have done better?

I am very, very happy with the service.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Unfortunately Helen was unable to offer advice on a financial product I have within an established sipp.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

I have had financial help from Helen in the past prior to my retirement and following a review I decided to ask Helen for some more advice for long term investment.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Following some quite detailed questions that all related to how I viewed financial risks, which I have to say pulled me in several directions until I was able to talk to Helen and to fully understand not only the potential risks but also the potential gains. It was after all my decision as to how I proceeded , but that was greatly assisted by talking to Helen and asking questions, and then asking her more questions, which she answered with a great deal of patience. She was always ready to talk to me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I believe that I do have the right outcome, it wasn't always easy, especially after the last few years. But I am confident that having listened to the advice that Helen gave my the correct decisions have been made.

What could they have done better?

The lack of face to face contact made the decision a bit more difficult, the telephone isn't a great medium to use when you are trying to make decisions. But hopefully that is behind us know and I look forwards to seeing Helen again.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Looking for advice on retirement income from, and/or consolidation of, one (or more) executive and personal pension plans.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Collected and collated all information from the relevant pension providers and identified the options available. This was done in a diligent and timely manner despite delays (on the part of the providers) due to staff shortages during the pandemic, with regular feedback/updates.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

One of the providers was offering a very good annuity rate, which I decided to take. There were complications (involving a transfer from one provider to another), so the intended consolidation of the remaining funds has been deferred until these have been resolved. This would have been beyond the scope of the initial work, anyway.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, under the circumstances (pandemic and provider response times).

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

I needed quality advice to enable me to make the right decisions regarding my financial security in retirement.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen carried out a full review of my financial circumstances and offered alternative solutions to suit my individual requirements. These alternatives were discussed in further detail to enable me to make a final reasoned judgement as to the best option to take.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I am now receiving a monthly income through a drawdown product which hopefully will continue performing adequately in the future and contribute to a comfortable retirement.

What could they have done better?

Nothing; there were some delays but these were caused by external agencies, not by Helen.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

I wanted to know what I could do with my pensions and how this fitted in with my personal plans

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen gave me a number of options and suggestions and we eventually came to one single recommendation

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely, Helen restructured my pension arrangements to meet my needs and plans for the future. Currently, everything is doing well based on the risk profile we discussed.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I received great advice in a timely manner as Helen matched what I needed with a financial plan and put it into place for me. Great advice and fabulous service.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

To seek a review of current and longer term investment, pension and retirement planning, with associated svenario modelling

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Providing options and associated modelling of investment and future income.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, Helen's support has been very clear,informative, professional.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, exactly what we needed

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Planning for early retirement.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

I was pretty much pension-and finances-phobic so desperately needed advice. Helen was amazing, helping me to make sense of my various pensions and getting everything organised appropriately. Now my finances are healthy and easy to manage, and I am happily enjoying my retirement.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Thanks to Helen's efforts my finances are healthier now than they have ever been, far in excess of what I had expected.

What could they have done better?

Couldn't have been better. As well as being extremely thorough and professional, Helen was very patient and understanding, and great at explaining (often more than once!) what needed to be done.

Review from verified client

October, 2021

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

Have known Philip Bates & Co Financial Services Ltd for over 15 years & for as long as I can remember, Helen Brown has always been my contact there but strangely enough, have never met her face to face in all these years. When I learnt that she had been listed in the VouchedFor's 2021 Top Rated Financial Adviser Guide, I had no hesitation in telling her that I wanted her continued advice. She actually suggested I found a Financial Adviser closer to home.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

She helped me in 2015 with my Prudential Pension & again this year (2021) with my LV Retirement Plan.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Definitely YES.

What could they have done better?

Absolutely NOTHING.

Review from verified client

February, 2021

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

I felt it was time to start taking my pension, given the mix of occupational and private pensions I have I wanted confirmation the timing was right and which options were most advantageous.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Provided a clear and logical report and guidance that enabled me to come to the most advantageous conclusion. This was done in a businesslike way, with a friendly attitude and always approachable & responsive.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Having purposely waited 6 mths before doing this review I can confirm I achieved the best solution for me and also the investment advice is now delivering well.

What could they have done better?

Seriously difficult to think of anything! Very Professional.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

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

Having had concerns regarding the both the quality of advice, and the level of charges, I was receiving from my previous financial advisor, I decided to benchmark their service. From my first conversation with Helen, I have been impressed by her knowledge, professionalism, and the clarity of her communication, but most of all by her obvious commitment to customer service. Helen has worked with us to identify the best investment options for our needs, addressing all of the concerns that I had with my previous advisor along the way, and without any prompting.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen conducted a complete review of our current financial situation, our attitude to risk, and our future goals, before making her recommendations. Her recommendations included a comprehensive comparison of my existing pension arrangement versus her proposed option, with her proposed offering showing stronger historical growth performance, no greater risk, and significantly lower management costs. Helen's recommendations included advice on how to improve our tax efficiency, something which my previous advisor had never picked up on;, and has since advised my partner on how to maximise returns on her savings

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Having implemented all of Helen's recommendations, and whilst it is still early days, my pension fund is certainly performing in line with expectations, and the lower management costs secured, will show a significant benefit moving forward. More importantly, we now feel confident that our investments are being professionally managed, with an advisor we can trust

What could they have done better?

I'm not sure my advisor could have done anything better

Review from verified client

December, 2020

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

Consolidation of a significant number of private pensions

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen set out all the options in a very clear and understandable way and then went on to action her recommendations efficiently and quickly despite the difficult situation we all find ourselves in at the moment

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing that we can think of

Review from verified client

December, 2020

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

Retirement- conversion of cash ISA to annuity Transferring investments via Hargreaves Landsdown to new hub after collapse of Neil Woodford fund - very dissatisfied with HL handling of it

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Patiently leading me through options and what I think was thorough background work.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

My annuity has been good So far so good with investment

What could they have done better?

Nothing I can think of

Review from verified client

December, 2020

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

Early retirement meant I had to look to see what I could do with my defined contribution company pension pot to ensure I had a comfortable retirement.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

My company had access to another pensions adviser that I could use to give me advice. I used this company and found that they were "OK" in the advice offered but I wanted more than OK, after all this was my life's savings. My wife had been a client of Helen's for a couple of years so I decided to compere products and service. Helen went to extra mile both not only in advice, explaining everything and getting me the best portfolio but offering tax advice to ensure we were able to make tax efficient decisions. The bonus was that this service and the on going charges were considerably cheaper than the the first provider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely, I am very please with the service and advice provided.

What could they have done better?

I don't believe that the advice given could have been better

Review from verified client

December, 2020

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

To give us necessary financial support and help with our pensions from a professional point of view.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen’s professional to a very high standard her calm and honest approach made us comfortable and very pleased with the options available to myself and my wife we were able to ask numerous questions that were answered in a confidant and conscientious manner which gave us great confidence we can’t thank her enough Gra&jill.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes most definitely, we are very pleased thanks.

What could they have done better?

I chose to speak to Helen after reading her qualifications and what Helen has obviously put into her career to put her where she is in her respected field.Helen treated us with personal respect and confidence. We would strongly recommend Helen for any financial advice that you may require thanks so much.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Knowledgeable

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Helen was very clear in explaining her charges and gave a brief explanation of how she might invest on my behalf.

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

I wanted some advice about how to simplify a variety of private pensions, and what I should be doing to save for retirement most effectively.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen helped me understand what I needed to be doing to plan and save for retirement. Helen managed the transfer of several private pensions into a recommended pension product, as well as setting up an ISA.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Although my retirement is still some time away, it has given me peace of mind to plan for the future, and know I will have ongoing advice. I now feel confident I am on the right path to save effectively for my retirement.

Review from verified client

October, 2020

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

Lost confidence with previous fund manager HL after Neil Woodford debacle.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

All contact has been by phone and email. I have had dealings with Helenin the past when arranging an annuity’. Helen was thorough and professional but approachable and patient . That’s why I contacted her for the transfers of our investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I believe that we are in good hands and that we now have good portfolios. We feel comfortable that we have a more personal service than with HL. We have confidence in Helen

What could they have done better?

If anything we thought the process of the actual transfer of funds took a long time but I know HL took several weeks to sell our stocks

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

I wanted to take one of my pension schemes to enable a house purchase.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Having looked at my pension arrangements, Helen was able to suggest a way of releasing a tax-free lump sum which also allowed me to continue to contribute to the scheme.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

I was looking to get independent professional advice about my pension and savings to maximise benefits to plan for my early retirement in 5 years time

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen checked current pension plans. Contacted company and private pension providers and compared current investment plan against my risk profile. Provided alternative plans that would be a closer fit with my risk profile. Suggested the best strategy to take.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In terms of the selected investments it is still early days but investments look good and have confidence that I still a good return. In terms of Helen's knowledge and efficiency and the service provided, these exceeded my expectations and I found our meetings relaxed, informative and very professional. Helen took the time to understand my objectives and reasons behind these and focussed on achieving these above all else. Throughout the whole process Helen ensured I was kept up to date on progress and took a great deal of weight off of my shoulders that would have occurred had I tried to progress this myself.

What could they have done better?

Nothing more as Helen provides a great service and I know that my investment and plans are in good hands. Have no hesitation in recommending Helen as an excellent Financial Advisor to work with!

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

Retirement financial planning

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Provided details and advise on several options open to me

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Once the option was selected to results were exactly as Helen had predicted

What could they have done better?

I feel Helen covered my requirements in a detailed and timely manner. Giving me time to study question and deside on the correct outcome

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

I was looking into accessing my pensions.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen advised me on all my pension options and gave a detailed review of what I could expect from each option.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I am very happy with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I was kept upto date with the whole process as it progressed either through phone calls or emails .

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

I had a useful chat with Helen about my fathers finances, she was quick to highlight conflict of interest issues (between myself and my father) which was very reassuring. She also provided some good general advice. Ultimately we did not proceed since my father is located on the South Coast, and Helen is based in North West England.

Review from verified client

July, 2020

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

I have been a client of Phillip Bates & Co for over 40 years and have every confidence in all the services that they provide. The financial services part of the company is as first class as all aspects of the company. Therefore i had every confidence in seeking their help in this matter.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen provided me with the various options, and gave me impartial advice as to the goods and the not so goods of all of them which i then decided for myself which to consider.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I most certainly have.!!!

What could they have done better?

Quite honestly there was nothing Helen could have done better for me, she was a beacon of light in the complexities of the financial world of which i know very little. Over the last ten years Helen has helped me by setting up pension policies and has been very professional in every way.

Review from verified client

July, 2020

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

Had a small pension pot that I wanted to maximise, over a reasonable time scale

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen gave me choices and discussed the out come of each of the options. She then discussed my current financials and we then reviewed the short list of products. She then gave me time to review her recommendations before we finally settle on the way forward that we both thought was right. This is the third break point (every 5 years) that we have discussed the change of my financial circumstances and ongoing requirements . Helen modified her recommendation to meet my new requirements .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Each new period has produced exactly what Helen had set my expectation to expect.

What could they have done better?

On balance she provided me with everything that I required in advise, time to think, and responded to any concerns.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

At age 55 I wanted to set up an annuity with my private pension

How has Helen Brown helped you?

After the initial discussion , Helen along with her team , did absolutely everything to bring the process to a conclusion.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I was happy regarding everything

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

Advice required upon pension maturity date .

How has Helen Brown helped you?

She reviewed my pension status and gave advice on future options for my capital.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yest

What could they have done better?

To date, we are very happy with the advice and assistance Helen has given.T

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

Pension planning

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Simplified a complicated area and helped us to plan for our future which hopefully will have positive results down the line. Patient, friendly and always keeping us informed. Filled us with confidence.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far yes with initial advice.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

Due to retire and needed to sort and understand some complexities and have a better understanding of the future ahead

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Sorted a smaller private pension but also really useful forecast as a family unit

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Only just invested from a family perspective so will see growth over time and yes my own advise really good

What could they have done better?

as yet nothing. only just completed piece of work so ongoing updates and communication will be really useful. To date professional, knowledgeable and reliable with work timely completed and executed well

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

Prospective retirement and inheritance advice

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Having never used the services of a Financial Adviser before, we found that Helen's representation of the facts and options helped greatly in making a life changing decision.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. investments at an early stage but retirement plans in progress.

What could they have done better?

No. Always responded promptly and clearly.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

I reached 55 and needed advice on transfer and drawdown options,

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Hele helped me understand my options and what needed to be done to achieve my goal.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes the outcome was as Helen and I arranged

What could they have done better?

There was nothing more Helen could have done to improve her service every thing that was done was fast and processed with no issues, Helen and the team really do there best for there customers and do it in a friendly and down to earth manner, I found Helen to by very pleasent person who takes the time to listen to the customers request and works hard for them to get the best deal for them

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

To obtain best financial/pension advice

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen has been a great help to me over the past few years. She has given me sound advice and guidance to achieve maximum benefit from my various pensions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes!

What could they have done better?

Helen could have done no better!

Review from verified client

November, 2019

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

I retired from work through I’ll health and had 2 Pensions that needed desperately Sorting out.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen was amazing My wife and I went for our free hour consultation to see what Helen could do for us. I have parkinsons which means I’m not very good at meeting people Helen made us feel so welcome within 10 minutes the shaking stopped she came up with all these ideas and then we discussed was best for me

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have seen the out come I was looking for. Thanks to you Helen

What could they have done better?

There is nothing Helen could do better she took her time and explained everything down to fine detail. I am that impressed that I have recommended Helen to my brother-in-law.

Review from verified client

September, 2019

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

Wanting to move investments into a more secure savings arrangement.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

She explained all the options very clearly and completely understood our needs and concerns. Helen took a great deal of time with us in meetings and also researching our situation and was always available by phone or email as were her team - we felt incredibly well looked after and informed.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have almost concluded our financial adjustments and so far so good! We will continue to see Helen in future years to finalise our investments.

What could they have done better?

We can’t think of anything Helen could have done better, she has been brilliant and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her.

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

I was looking to get independent professional advice about my pension and savings to maximise benefits to plan for my early retirement in 5 years time

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen checked current pension plans. Contacted company and private pension providers and compared current investment plan against my risk profile. Provided alternative plans that would be a closer fit with my risk profile. Suggested the best strategy to take.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In terms of the selected investments it is still early days and it will be some months before the results of the selected funds are known. In terms of Helen's knowledge and efficiency and the service provided, these exceeded my expectations and I found our meetings relaxed, informative and very professional. Helen took the time to understand my objectives and reasons behind these and focussed on achieving these above all else. Throughout the whole process Helen ensured I was kept up to date on progress and took a great deal of weight off of my shoulders that would have occurred had I tried to progress this myself.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, I'm really pleased with Helen and know that my investments are in safe hands.

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

Inheritance that I wanted investing that would give a good return of interest together with a monthly income Also to re invest some existing savings.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

She arranged an investment plan, together with advice on how best to invest. She was friendly, efficient and really helpful

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Absolutely nothing! Helen provided a 1st class service

Review from verified client

August, 2019

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

Ready to retire and wanted to ensure best income

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Heken listened to our needs and wishes and researched the market to find the best product available to us. We feel we made a good choice tn taking Helens advice and that we were central to the process.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I dont beleive we could have had a better outcome .

Review from verified client

July, 2019

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

I was in need to bring my various work pensions together.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen provided fantastic advise, walked me through the whole process, and also was very open with her advise in respect to the various options available (with risk, low risk).

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

It is early days but i have been monitoring the individual investments that Helen advised me on and they are all performing well.

What could they have done better?

Helen could not have done anything better. It was a assuring process that Helen provided to me, and also educational!

Review from verified client

July, 2019

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

I am thinking of retiring and requested advise on whether I would have enough pension savings to be able to achieve the retirement income I was for which I was hoping.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen reviewed my probable outgoings, against my pension savings and my attitude to financial risk. She modelled my financial circumstances for the foreseeable future, after I retire. Based on this, she selected an appropriate financial product for pension drawdown over the first period of retirement, with a view to reviewing the situation after a number of years and whether I would like to consider the purchase of an annuity.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Helen gave me a lot of information for consideration. At this stage, I would not have wanted any more information. Where she has got to is enough at this stage. I always have the option to ask questions.

What could they have done better?

I don't think that she could have done more. As stated above the information I now have is sufficient for me to consider my options and ask further questions, if I need to.

Review from verified client

February, 2019

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

Seeking to transfer out of a defined pension benefit scheme.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Gave advice on how to achieve my financial goals, through understanding my needs, explaining suitability and gave recommendations on action.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Entirely to my satisfaction

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

Retiring Early . I needed advice for retirement planning and to look at options for savings, long term investments and potential income sources. She also provided some assistant on the Pension Lifetime Allowance.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen went through the options with me and my husband and helped us to make our decisions on the best way forward in respect of savings and investments. Helen provided invaluable help in regard to the Lifetime allowance.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With regard to the investments it is still early days but I hope that the investment funds will provide the returns we would like to see.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Helen was very approachable, efficient and professional. She explained everything very clearly and we were both happy with the overall experience. I would not hesitate to recommend her services to family and friends.

Review from verified client

October, 2018

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

Early Retirement . Needed to review all income sources and current savings and investments that where spread across different platforms, essentially under performing in our opinion.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen provided us with a good understanding of our options having made a detailed study of our current financial position on retirement. She helped us to make an assessment of our immediate needs and long term savings objectives and provided sound advice on how to round up our current savings and make investments that suited our needs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The investments we made are of a longer term nature but we are happy that the advice and therefore the investment we made is on the right track . We are happy with the outcome so far.

What could they have done better?

Completely happy with the whole process

Review from verified client

September, 2018

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

Advice regarding retirement planing.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Advised and organised annuities for us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. She had a very approachable manner and was very helpful and supportive .

Review from verified client

September, 2018

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

I am 56 years old, self employed and my income had dropped which was causing some financial difficulties . This made me look at releasing funds from my pension to clear the remaining 3 years mortgage and reduce my overall outgoings. I found Helen Brown on this website and can say she was brilliant. She put my mind at ease and took everything into consideration when looking at my situation. I had never used a financial advisor before and she took time to explain and go through all the details with me.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

I had 2 pensions and she looked at them both to find the best option for me, taking into consideration my needs and current financial situation. Most importantly Helen advised me not to touch one of the pensions as it had a guaranteed income.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I was able to clear my mortgage plus have funds to spare for emergencies. I also still have my main pension in place.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all. Helen was very professional and her advice was invaluable. I can't thank her enough!!

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Helen made an initial response to my contact saying she was busy but didn't make any further follow on which was disappointing.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

Very good.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

A good quick response and appointment date . I did not use her services as I changed my mind.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2018

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Helen

I found my meeting with Helen to be very informative and appropriate for my needs. Helen was friendly, professional and explained everything in a clear and concise way.

Review from verified client

July, 2018

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

Redundancy and desire for early retirement so needed to have a clear view of the options redundancy settlements and accumulated pensions gave me.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Provided a clear path forward and options to legally mitigate tax penalties from the redundancy.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Have seen the tax benefit and re-aligned pension arrangements. The invrstment selections appear sound but it is early days to know for certain they are the best and most efficient.

What could they have done better?

We felt that Helen fully understood our situation and objectives which then helped her give good clear advice. Therefore there is little that she could have done better

Review from verified client

July, 2018

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

Early Retirement.

How has Helen Brown helped you?

Helen researched the best options available and kept me informed through the whole process. If you have any queries Helen is quick to respond and will either phone or email you with the answer,nothing is to much trouble.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, everything was done to my complete satisfaction.

Review from verified client

June, 2018