Frequently Asked Questions

What does Simple Wealth Solutions do?

At Simple Wealth Solutions, we help individuals and families manage their finances and plan for the future. This can include tax-efficient investing, retirement planning, inheritance tax planning and financial protection.

Our aim is to give clients clarity and confidence, helping them make informed financial decisions and build strategies that support their long-term goals.

Do I need a Financial Adviser?

It is a common misconception that financial advice is only for wealthy people. You may benefit from speaking to a Financial Adviser if your finances are becoming more complex, or if you would like professional support with decisions such as investing, retirement planning or reducing your tax burden.

A Financial Adviser can help you create a structured plan around your goals, identify opportunities you may not have considered, and provide ongoing support as your life and circumstances change. Many people find that professional advice delivers significant value, both financially and through peace of mind.

Is financial advice only for wealthy people?

No. Financial advice can benefit anyone looking to organise their finances, plan for the future, or make more informed financial decisions.

Many clients seek advice while building their wealth, rather than waiting until they have already accumulated it.

What services does Simple Wealth Solutions offer?

We offer a comprehensive range of financial planning services, including:

  • Investment planning and savings strategies
  • Retirement income planning
  • Pension planning
  • Inheritance and estate planning
  • Long-term care planning
  • Protection planning (life cover, income protection and critical illness cover)
  • Family financial planning

Every recommendation is tailored to your personal circumstances and objectives—we do not offer one-size-fits-all solutions.

Is Simple Wealth Solutions regulated?

Yes. Simple Wealth Solutions is an Appointed Representative of St. James's Place, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

This means we operate under strict professional standards, and you benefit from the protections that FCA regulation provides, including access to the Financial Ombudsman Service and the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

What is St. James's Place?

St. James's Place (SJP) is one of the UK’s largest and most established wealth management companies, with over 30 years of experience.

Simple Wealth Solutions operates as an Appointed Representative of St. James's Place, meaning we offer their investment products and benefit from their infrastructure, research and compliance framework, while providing the personal service of an independent financial advice practice.

Can you help with inheritance tax planning?

Yes. Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning is an important part of long-term financial planning.

We help clients understand their potential IHT exposure and put strategies in place to help pass more of their wealth to the people and causes they care about. This may include the use of trusts, gifting strategies, pension planning and tax-efficient investment solutions.

Every plan is tailored to your individual family circumstances.

About Your First Meeting

Where will our meetings take place?

We work with clients throughout Berkshire and the surrounding areas.

Meetings can take place:

  • In the comfort of your own home
  • At our Newbury office:
    Montague Court, 21–25 London Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 1JL
  • Online via Zoom / TEAMS, for clients anywhere in the UK

What should I expect during the first meeting?

Your first meeting is a relaxed, no-obligation conversation.

We will discuss your current financial situation, any concerns you may have, and your goals for the future so that we can understand how we may be able to help.

We will also explain how Simple Wealth Solutions works, along with the range of services and investment solutions available through St. James's Place.

Initial meetings typically last up to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of your circumstances.

Is what I share in my meeting kept confidential?

Yes. Everything you share with us is treated as strictly confidential.

Your personal information is protected and handled in accordance with data protection legislation and industry regulations.

What do I need to bring to my initial meeting?

It helps to have a general picture of your financial situation, but you do not need to have everything perfectly organised.

Useful information may include:

  • Details of any existing pensions (workplace or personal)
  • Details of savings, investments or ISAs
  • Existing protection policies (life cover, critical illness cover or income protection)
  • An overview of your monthly income and expenditure
  • Details of any mortgages or outstanding debts

Don’t worry if you do not have all of this available—we can work through it together.

How often do clients meet with their Adviser?

We recommend that clients meet with their Adviser at least once a year to review their financial plans and ensure they remain aligned with their objectives and changing circumstances.

However, we are always available whenever guidance is needed, and meetings can take place more frequently if required.

Regular reviews help ensure your financial plan continues to reflect your goals, priorities and life events.

 

Working With Us

Why do clients work with us? 

Clients choose to work with us for a variety of reasons.

Some simply do not have the time to manage their own financial plans, while others value professional expertise and ongoing support.

Our goal is to provide clarity, confidence and reassurance. We help clients cut through financial jargon, make informed decisions and avoid emotional reactions to market events.

By taking care of the technical aspects of financial planning, we help clients focus on what matters most to them and support their long-term financial goals.

Having a trusted Adviser can provide peace of mind, knowing that guidance and support are available whenever needed. This can help reduce financial stress, make better use of disposable income, grow and protect wealth, and improve tax efficiency throughout your lifetime and for future generations.

We meet with clients at least annually to review progress and ensure they remain on track to achieve their financial objectives.

Most importantly, we are always available whenever you have a question or need financial guidance.