As part of the Equilibrium experiences, the masterclasses aimed to not only focus on the technical aspects of financial planning but to add substance to real-life challenges by following our purpose of ‘making people’s lives better’.
Our goal was to create a relaxed atmosphere where attendees could share their real-life experiences. This has reassured clients that the challenges they face are not unique, and by prompting personal reflection, this can be the catalyst to action.
Since March 2023, we have launched six masterclasses with wide-ranging topics from The Care Conundrum to Cyber Security which has seen over 500 clients walk through our doors. Originally designed as an in-person event, we hope to introduce an online version in the near future. We’re also excited to continue our momentum with three more topics planned for early next year, and another five potentially added to the calendar by late 2025.
Evolution
Interestingly, when clients have attended each masterclass, they too have come up with potential topics they view as valuable. The Cyber Security Masterclass was developed in response to the ever-increasing concerns about cyber threats. While we have always taken this topic very seriously as a business, we realised the need to better address the daily impact these threats have on our clients. Given the increasingly complex ways that cybercriminals try to trick their victims, feedback from our masterclass participants indicated that cyber security was a top priority.
Recognising the importance of addressing our client’s concerns, we promptly organised a masterclass to raise awareness and provide valuable guidance. Our Technology Manager, Amanda Jackson, along with Head of Organisational Development, Lucy Woolrich, spearheaded the creation of this informative session.
To further enhance its credibility, we invited our IT partner and cyber security experts, Axon, to address any specific concerns our clients may have had. The overwhelmingly positive feedback we received from the attendees reflected the fact that improving our clients’ lives goes way beyond financial matters. It is now our goal for all clients to participate in the Cyber Security Masterclass as we believe it is essential in today’s digital age.
The Powers of Attorney Masterclass is a prime example of evolution in action. We firmly believe that everyone should have powers of attorney, ranking its importance on par with that of a will. While a significant portion of our clients already have wills in place, the same cannot be said for powers of attorney.
This discrepancy prompted us to launch a masterclass, not only to underscore the significance of powers of attorney, but also to guide individuals through the process of setting them up practically.
The response from attendees was remarkable, with many gaining the confidence to independently establish their powers of attorney online, thus circumventing the need to pay for a solicitor. We also recognised the overwhelming amount of information presented during the masterclass and subsequently developed a concise video tutorial of how to set up these documents using the gov.uk website, outlining the necessary steps for registration.
Furthermore, our commitment to client support led us to introduce our in-house powers of attorney specialist, Jonathan Brusell, who now offers a complimentary appointment to assist in completing the powers of attorney documents. Our objective is to ensure that clients are fully supported throughout the process, from understanding their importance to successfully registering them.
While financial services evolve, investing wisely and using tax planning opportunities remain essential, as any financial planner would naturally do. However, only by placing the same importance on holistic life planning, can we truly say that we have enabled clients to live the life they want, look after those they love and leave a powerful legacy.
What our clients say:
“I’ve learnt a lot this evening and now truly understand how importanta lasting power of attorney is.” Mark Barrowclough – Powers of Attorney
“I learnt lots! Opened my mind to different forms of care e.g. villages. Good to hear/share different experiences.” Alice Brown – The Care Conundrum
“Wish I’d known this sooner. Great presentation. Really helpful.” Jo Clark – Rapid Responsibility
“Thought provoking. Importance of conversations and getting the two way understanding of values and ambitions.” Steve Jennings – Nearest and Dearest – Part One
Book today
Our current masterclasses run monthly with morning and evening sessions available.
See all upcoming dates and find out more here.
We look forward to welcoming you to our next event!
