Just 62 financial planning firms in the UK have demonstrated standards of professionalism and excellence high enough to attain CISI accreditation.

At HA&W, we’re delighted to confirm that we have recently done just that. 

The select group of firms with Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) accreditation “represent some of the very best financial planning firms in the UK”. 

Not only that, but we’re also one of only a handful of UK financial planning firms to be both accredited and Chartered. 

CISI head of financial planning policy and engagement (and Chartered MCSI) Chris Morris congratulated us by saying “It is a pleasure to welcome HA&W as a CISI AFPF.”

We’re rightly proud of our accreditation. But what did we have to do to become a part of this select group, and what does our accreditation mean for you?

Keep reading to find out.

Just 62 UK firms have currently made the cut

The process of becoming an accredited firm is rigorous and requires the kind of dedication and commitment that we always aim to show you and your long-term financial plans. 

Here are just some of the standards that HA&W had to demonstrate. Plus, why our adherence to these standards is such good news for your long-term plans.

1. A clear provision of financial planning services

The CISI has developed its own criteria to access the financial planning services offered by UK firms. Having demonstrated that we can meet these standards, HA&W will need to continue doing so on an ongoing basis. 

By gaining accreditation we have committed to a consistently high level of service that you as our clients can understand and trust. 

We provide a full financial planning service aligned to your goals, using cashflow modelling as default. 

You can be sure that we will get to know you, understand your aspirations, and put a plan in place that will help to make your financial dreams a reality.

2. Clearly communicated proposition promoted through marketing materials

Once your plan is in place, we will continue to be there for you.

You’ll receive regular updates, newsletters, and valuations. These inform you how your financial plan is progressing, as well as keeping you up to date on the latest financial news from the UK and abroad. Our website is updated each month to reflect the ever-changing landscape.

Providing reassurance is an important part of our job, especially when markets are unstable and times are tough.

That is why you also receive regular review meetings to update your objectives and check on the progress we are making together. Each meeting produces a formal report providing updates and advice as needed.

3. A consistent, company-wide fee structure communicated clearly

At HA&W, we understand that what you want from your financial planner is accountability and transparency. To demonstrate our commitment to providing this, we make it clear how much we charge from the outset.

You can find our full fees and some scenarios to help you calculate how much you might pay on our website.

We do not charge a fee for our no-obligation initial meetings but you will pay an implementation fee once we complete our full report. This includes information gathering and the production of detailed proposals. 

There will also be ongoing fees applicable depending on the service you receive and the level of investment you ask us to manage.

4. Policies and procedures aligned to CISI’s Code of Ethics and Practice Standards

The CISI’s code of conduct sets out what it expects from its accredited firms. It is a set of principles and standards that align with our own, including:

  • Personal accountability, integrity, honesty, and diligence
  • Client focus and always putting our clients first 
  • An ongoing commitment to professional development 
  • An awareness of our capabilities and competencies 
  • Speaking up to help promote a safe environment.

These principles are embedded in our culture and inform all of our interactions with you so that you can be sure you and your money are in safe hands.

5. A clear and visible investment philosophy

You will always be kept informed about our investment philosophy, as well as any change to our investment policy where outside influences require changes to be made.

You can find quarterly investment updates on the News section of our website and we are only ever a call away if you have concerns about your investments or any other aspect of your long-term financial plans.

Get in touch

Speaking about our recent accreditation, Alasdair confirmed, “I’m incredibly proud that HA&W has been recognised as a CISI AFPF. The award demonstrates that we “walk the talk” of financial planning, with all our clients every time.”

Contact us now to find out how our Chartered financial planners could help you. 

Please note

The value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Levels, bases of and reliefs from taxation may be subject to change and their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor.