Reviewed for

Insurance and Protection ( 2 )

Mortgages ( 14 )

Pensions ( 18 )

Equity Release ( 2 )

Retirement income (annuities, drawdown) ( 6 )

Investments and Savings ( 11 )

Pension Transfers - Non Specialist ( 1 )

Reviewers' assets

£200k - £500k ( 2 )

£100k - £200k ( 4 )

Up to £50k ( 8 )

£50k - 100k ( 5 )

Client reviews

Review from verified client

November, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

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

Uncertainty about my pension provision.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

He reviewed my investments, explained my options and after making my decision he acted on my instructions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I can now review my investments on a daily basis.

Ian's reply

Thank you for taking the time to leave me a great review, it’s very much appreciated. Kind regards Ian

Review from verified client

November, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

Semi retirement

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian listen to my needs and tailored my investments and drawdown pension accordingly

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Ian was very good and giving me options.

Ian's reply

Thank you Mark for taking the time to leave me a nice review, it’s very much appreciated. Kind Regards Ian

Review from verified client

November, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

I had accumulated several Pension over the last 30 years with reams of correspondence from all of them. I need someone to collate organize and advise on what options were best for each one. Ian had to do a fair bit of investigation and pension linking due to some funds being transferred into other pension due to mergers of companies of the years

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian had to do a fair bit of investigation and pension linking due to some funds being transferred into other pension due to mergers of companies of the years. He then assesed each fund and advsie what was best to do with it, i.e leave it with current provider or consolidate into one fund. This was do with a detailed report and Ian took the time to ensure i understood the advice he was suggesting and effect this may have on potential pension pot. This was done through a standared process with and was profesional explained with out Jargon.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I know have one consolidated fund and one Pension along with my Current employers pension. I have peace of mind with retainig Ians services that when i change Jobs in future my pension planning is in good hands as he is at the end of the phone to advise on best options for pension transfer if required. There are various options that Ian wil lsuggets as to how much continued support he will offer which you can choose from. At no point did i feel any pressure or obligation to take any servise or product from Ian.

What could they have done better?

With out reservation i would recommend Ian services.

Ian's reply

Thank you very much for your comprehensive review and kind words.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

Retirement lump sum received and needed advice in best way to invest it

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian gave us clear concise advice about options available, outlining probable outcomes.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely!. We’re aware that the past few years have seen difficult times for investments and savings but we are more than happy with the way the investments have performed

What could they have done better?

I can’t think of anything, it’s quite a daunting experience when you place what you consider a large sum of money in the hands of someone you’ve never met before (Ian was recommended by a friend). He immediately put our mind at rest and provides us with regular updates

Ian's reply

Thank you both for the review and the kind words, its very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

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

I needed to review my pension arrangements.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

He looked into and sorted all the paper work for my pension transfer.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes very happy with outcome.

What could they have done better?

To be honest everything went smoothly.

Ian's reply

Thank you for taking the time to leave me a great review.

Review from verified client

November, 2019

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

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

needed pensions for me and my staff

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

gave sound financial advise which was explained in layman's terms and setup all the auto-enrolment and pensions for my company

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have annual reports and i can see my money growing its great being able to talk with experts in the trade

What could they have done better?

Nothing all the advise has been very good.

Ian's reply

Thank you very much for your kind words and we are looking forward to working with you all over the coming years.

Review from verified client

August, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

We needed an IFA to help transfer my husbands old opted out of SERPS pension into a Drawdown pension.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian dealt with the transfer efficiently and professionally. Everything was explained clearly and all documentation sent out promptly.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. We are extremely pleased with Ian's professionalism and would recommend him to anyone who needed an IFA. We had previously encountered many problems trying to transfer the pension - it had been a real minefield. We had been dealing with less than reputable companies and were in danger of being 'ripped off' It was a huge relief to finally find Ian.

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Everything was dealt with professionally and promptly

Ian's reply

Thank you both very much for your review, we strive daily to raise our professional standards ensuring clients receive and benefit from first class advice and service. Regards Ian.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

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

I HAD BEEN LET DOWN BY OTHER ADVISOR'S USED IN THE PAST.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

IAN REALLY HELPED US FROM START TO FINISH, HE EXPLAINED EVERYTHING IN FINE DETAIL. I WOULD REALLY WOULD RECOMM.</span> HIS SERVICES. I WAS ALWAYS KEPT IN LOOP. A TRUE PROFESSIONAL.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

YES EVERYTHING THAT IAN SAID WOULD HAPPEN DID.

What could they have done better?

I CAN NOT FAULT ANYTHING ABOUT THE SERVICE I WAS GIVEN

Ian's reply

Thank you Martin, I really appreciate you taking the time to review my service.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Worcestershire

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

Initially we bought our first home since we have moved three times each time we have looked at best value and service.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

They provided a quick and easy transaction keeping us updated at all times.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Everytime, no problems and always just what we wanted.

What could they have done better?

Nothing at all I am completely satisfied.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

Investing a lump sum....pension advice.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Explained exactly what is available, talked us through and was excellent in the way he came across.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, the investments are performing as we hoped.

What could they have done better?

It's difficult to answer, having never had this type if advice before, I think he did a great job

Ian's reply

Thank you Martin & Marilyn

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

I needed an investment to enhance my pension.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Yes Ian came up with a plan that would help me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I am very happy with the product l have at the moment.

Ian's reply

Thank you Raymond & Yvonne.

Review from verified client

March, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

I was looking for an investment that would enhance my pension.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Yes Ian understood what l was after and came up with an investment that suited my circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Quite happy at the moment with the product and the service was excellent.

What could they have done better?

Having a bit of difficulty reading the examples with the light blue background.

Review from verified client

February, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

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

A need for some honest, clear, unbiased advice. I have little experience in the field of finance and was overwhelmed with documentation I did not understand, , during and following a divorce.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

He listened to the uncertainties I had. He read all the documentation I had. He then went to great lengths to explain what was required. Advice was always given in a relaxed way, with no pressure to commit to anything.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Excellent. Accurate advise and expert delivery. Ongoing support. Very beneficial outcome.

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Ian's reply

Thank you very much for kind words its been a pleasure to work with you.

Review from verified client

January, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Yorkshire

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

Redundancy and needed to trace all my pensions of past and reinvest in One place.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Advised on best areas within a pension plan to invest in and explained the transfer process we had to go through.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes all the pensions have now been transferred over to my chosen pension plan.

What could they have done better?

Ian and his team have been there for me all the way just a phone call away so can't really wish for a better service

Review from verified client

January, 2016

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Shropshire

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

Needed help with two pensions following government changes to pension regulations.

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

I made contact with Ian by phone and gave relevant information, he then visited me and explained my options with regards to taking my pensions, reinvesting most of the equity as a monthly pension and paying off the remainder of my mortgage. I was 60, unemployed and with no intention of working again. There was at times a little confusion on my part but a phone call to Ian was all it took to ease my doubts and put my mind at rest. Nothing was too much trouble, help and advice was always available.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Guidance and explanations were always available with plenty of time to digest any paperwork. The products and service that I received were ideal and I now feel at ease about my future finances and retirement.

What could they have done better?

All advisers should bear in mind that the lesser well educated among us won't fully understand the standard terminology or phrases used in finance, some clients may well feel too intimidated too ask for explanations of the trickier bits and not fully understand what is happening. This is true in all services provided not just financial. I myself do not have this problem, I ask the question and expect the answer. Ian Gwinnell helped me to understand every step of the way, and I thank him very much indeed.

Ian's reply

Thank you very much for your kind words Raymond, it makes me feel content and humbled when clients are happy after dealing with us. All the very best for the future.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2014

Overall

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Ian

Time was no problem, he quietly, competently answered all my queries, and offered some excellent advice for the future.

Ian's reply

Thank you for the review.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

I have always found Ian a pleasure to deal with and I completely trust the recommendations that he has made for me. Ian has been my adviser now for mortgages for around the last 8 - 10 years and I've recommended him to my friends and family.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian has been our Financial Advisor for many years now. As I don't understand much of the Financial 'technical terms' Ian has always been good at explaining our options in plain English. He's always provided us with different options for both pensions and mortgages and has explained the differnent levels of risk, understanding that we do not like taking high risks with our investments.

What could they have done better?

It is unfortunate that Ian no longer has an office near to our home. saying that though, Ian has still come to our home when we need Financial Advice.

Review from verified client

February, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian is approachable and he took the time to understand our needs for our recent house move. He was able to source products that met our needs and which we were happy with. He was also easy to contact and got back to us quickly regarding our queries. Our overall experience of working with Ian has been very positive and we would recommend him to friends and family.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian explains everything clearly and keeps you constantly updated

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

I first met Ian in a professional capacity working for an asset management company. Ian proved himself to be very astute and he conducts his business with great integrity. To the extent that i have used Ian's services on several occasions. I would not hesitate to recommend Ian.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Been a first time buyer I found Mr Gwinnell very good & helpful at explaining & working thought setting up a mortgage from the beginning to the end. I was very pleased with the mortgage deal that he set up for me. We sat & discussed the repayments charges terms of the mortgage & any questions I had he explained clearly. Over the time of buying the property mr Gwinnell was very prompted & on hand to help.With me been self employed & buying a reposesed property . There were many areas to sort out.

What could they have done better?

To be onist I don't have any constructive suggestions . I had no problems & was very pleased. Mr Gwinell was recommended to me.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

We found Ian very honest and helpfull in all of the advice he gave us when looking at mortgages and with pensions, he kept us upto date with all proceedings, we think he has given us very good advice and will certainly be keeping in touch with Ian.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, well not that he found.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

I requested financial advice from Ian after he gave pension advice on Radio WM. He provided sound advice, explaining my pension options in a manner that was easy for me to understand. He explained all my options, allowing me to confidently assess my pension situation and make decisions regarding taking early retirement. His initial advice resulted in me accessing my pension fund and investing it in an annuity. Ian was open about the amount of commission he would receive from my investment.

What could they have done better?

I am completely satisfied with the service I receive from Ian

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

He understands my requirements and forms a package to suit my needs.

What could they have done better?

Nothing that I can think of.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Staffordshire

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Ian has advised and acted on my behalf in the areas indicated above over a number of years. Ia all cases I found the advice and subsequent actions excellent. His ability to empathise and understand the clients needs is of a high order as is his ability to offer and explain any alternatives that are present. In particulate he dealt with an issue that had the potential for serious consequences during the negotiations regarding my annuity and pension. His presentation, paperwork, timeliness and efficiency are such that I have no hesitation in recommending his services

What could they have done better?

I feel that Ian provides an excellent service and cannot suggest any areas that would improve the service I have had from him.

Review from verified client

January, 2014

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

I have dealt with Ian for over 2 years and have sought pension and mortgage advice from him. What I found most beneficial is the fact that Ian is able to explain things in a way that make them easy to understand. He also got us a great mortgage deal and he manages my pension as well.

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

November, 2013

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in West Midlands

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Provides advice with honesty and integrity. Was able to advise a cheaper insurance on his own initiative and proactively managed this process seamlessly. Was patient when I changed my mind about contractual details and worked along my preferences. Keeps me informed and proactively manages communication with other parties

What could they have done better?

Perhaps an annual review of current/ expiring insurance policies

Review from verified client

November, 2013

Overall

Advice

Service

Value

Based in Cheshire

How has Ian Gwinnell helped you?

Director at Northwest Consultancy Services Ltd Ian is the consumate professional who in my opinion provides excellent financial advice and service to his clients but is also a very likeable and personable character that makes working with him an absolute delight.

What could they have done better?

Very difficult to comment because I cannot honestly think of any areas where Ian needs to improve.