Client journey

What it’s like to work with us - from first chat to long-term planning

Financial planning should feel clear and not confusing

This page explains what it’s like to work with us, from the first conversation to the moment your plan clicks into place (and beyond). We take the time to get it right, never rush, and walk with you every step of the way.

Step 1: A proper chat, no pressure

What happens:
Every journey starts with a proper conversation, at our expense.
We’ll talk about what matters most to you, what’s prompted you to reach out, and whether we might be a good fit. No jargon. No pressure. Just a real chat.

What happens next:
We’ll follow up with a clear summary of how we could help, what it would involve, and what it might cost. You’ll have everything you need to decide, in your own time.

Step 2: Getting everything lined up

What happens:
If you choose to work with us, we’ll set you up on our secure client portal.
That’s where you can track progress, securely share documents, and stay connected.

We’ll also handle the admin:

  • Agreements and ID checks (AML)

  • Gathering information from your providers

  • Starting to map out your financial position

How this helps:
It gets everything lined up so we can move forward smoothly, and start focusing on you, not paperwork.

Step 3: Understanding what really matters

What happens:
This is where we really get to know you, not just the numbers, but your priorities, concerns, values and goals.

We’ll go deep:

  • What do you want life to look like?

  • What’s driving your decisions?

  • What are you worried about?

At the same time, we’ll dig into your pensions, investments, protection, and wider finances to build a clear picture of where you stand.

We’ll also build your cash flow model - stress-testing different options to show how your future might look in real terms.

Why it matters:
This step gives you clarity and direction. You’ll start to see what’s possible, and what needs attention.

Step 4: A plan built around your life

What happens:
We bring everything together into a clear, practical financial plan, designed around you.

We’ll walk you through it, explain our thinking, and answer every question. You’ll see the reasoning behind each recommendation and how it helps you live the life you want.

Once you’re happy, we’ll send the full written plan, and talk through the next steps if you want to move forward.

Step 5: Putting it all into action

What happens:
If the plan includes setting up or adjusting any financial products, we’ll take care of it.

That might include:

  • Investment changes

  • Pension consolidations

  • Protection policies

  • Automated savings or contributions

We’ll handle the paperwork, coordinate with other professionals if needed, and keep things moving, while keeping you in the loop.

Step 6: Ongoing support, whenever you need it

What happens:
This isn’t a one-off service. We’re in it with you.

Each year, we hold a planning meeting to review your position, check for changes, and adjust the plan if needed. We’ll talk about:

  • What’s changed in your life

  • New goals or priorities

  • Tax rules, investment performance, or economic shifts

And outside of those meetings, we’re here whenever you need us.

What this means:
You’re not doing it alone. You’ve got someone in your corner who knows your plan inside out and will keep it working as life moves on.

The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate Cashflow Planning.

The value of Pensions and Investments and any income from them can fall as well as rise. You may not get back the full amount invested.

If you’re curious about what this could look like for you, just get in touch.
We’ll talk it through, answer your questions, and go from there, no cost, no obligation.

☎ 01326 33 33 55

✉ toby@betterlifefp.co.uk

Or fill out our contact form