Whether you’re relatively new to working with Jane Smith Financial Planning, or you’ve been with us from the start, there are likely some things you don’t know about us.
Since 1994 (yes, we have a big birthday coming up!) we have:
- Won numerous awards and accreditations
- Raised thousands for local charities
- Celebrated staff milestones at work and home.
So, sit back, relax, and get to know us a little better with your rundown of 12 surprising facts you might not know about Jane Smith Financial Planning.
1. Nicola’s mum, Jane Smith started the business 30 years ago
Jane Smith Independent Financial Services began life as part of a network, back in 1994. It was set up by Jane Smith, mother of our current company director, Nicola Watts.
Many clients came with Jane from her previous firm and have stayed the course, coming to us for advice for three decades!
2. Nicola joined the business in 2000
The millennium was an important time for Jane Smith Financial Planning.
Nicola joined the business in 2000 (and yes, next year will mark Nicola’s quarter-century here!) while the next two years saw a name change and authorisation.
In 2002, the business was incorporated into a limited company, Jane Smith Financial Planning Limited. This was also the year we became directly authorised by the FCA.
3. At one point, all 3 Smith children worked here
We pride ourselves on being a family business.
Nicola’s brother and sister have both had stints with the firm, though their careers ultimately took them in a different direction.
Neil becoming an arborist (a tree surgeon, to you and me) and Emma now works in a school.
4. We recently had a client case study featured in the Times
Back in March, we were named one of VouchedFor’s Top Rated Firms in their 2024 guide, distributed in the Times.
Based on feedback from a business’s own clients, the list comprises just 113 of the roughly 5,000 financial advice firms in the UK.
Not only did we make the list, but one of our clients was featured.
Carol Bailey’s story highlights the work we do at Jane Smith Financial Planning, making real lives better. You can read about VouchedFor and its Top Rated Firms here or click on the image to read Carol’s story.
We’d also like to take this opportunity to say thank you again to all our clients who left reviews and for continuing to trust us with your long-term financial and life goals.
5. Nicola recently completed an epic Kilimanjaro challenge
For those (very few) of you who missed it, Nicola recently undertook a massive challenge for charity.
In March, we wrote about how Nicola conquered Mount Kilimanjaro and the article also includes some of the incredible photos she took along the route. Be sure to check them out.
Nicola has so far raised a massive £3,680 for a local charity, the Bedford and District Cerebral Palsy Society (BDCPS). There’s still time to donate on the Just Giving page if you’d like to show your support.
A huge congratulations to Nicola again from the whole Jane Smith Financial Planning team
6. Refer a friend to Jane Smith and you’ll be helping our chosen charity
While we’re on the subject of charity fundraising, did you know that Jane Smith offers a client referral incentive that helps us support local charities?
Well… we do!
We make a £50 charitable donation for each person you recommend to us who books an initial meeting. Better still, that initial meeting is completely free and there’s no requirement for them to become a client.
If you have friends, family or colleagues who are approaching retirement, already enjoying retirement or are looking to create a legacy, put them in touch with us now.
By doing so, you’ll be helping them and supporting a local charity.
7. Our next charity partner has already been chosen
After a recent client poll, our next charity partner has been chosen – Harry’s Rainbow.
This amazing charity looks to support bereaved children, offering trips and activities, therapeutic mentoring, and ongoing school support, helping to give them a brighter tomorrow.
Find out more about our chosen charity and referral incentive scheme here. And stay tuned for more charity news in the coming months.
8. We’re a Chartered and accredited firm
We’ve already mentioned that there are around 5,000 financial advice firms in the UK. Of those, around 700 (14%) hold Chartered status, while fewer than 60 are accredited.
Just a handful of UK firms hold both and (you’ve guessed it) Jane Smith FP is one such firm.
Read more about What our Accredited and Chartered status means for you here.
9. Jane Smith Financial Planning celebrated its 30th birthday this year
Can it really be five years since our 25th-anniversary celebrations at Saxby’s Cider?
A lot has happened in the intervening five years, not least a global pandemic and incredible political upheaval at home and globally.
All of which is to say, we’re not quite ready to unveil our plans for this milestone celebration yet. So keep your eyes peeled and watch this space!
10. We’re also celebrating an engagement…
Roxanne Hill, Jane Smith’s Client Services Administrator received a proposal from Ryan, her boyfriend, in Philadelphia recently, where they were attending a wrestling convention.
Roxanne was very shocked but of course said yes!
11. …And an upcoming wedding
Client Services Administrator and Quality Manager Amy Nechat is marrying her fiancé, Ray, in Staffordshire on 28 May 2024.
A huge congratulations to the future Mrs Brown and all the best to Amy and Ray, and Roxanne and Ryan.
12. Guess who’s featured in the 9 June edition of the Mail on Sunday?
Finally, did you know that Jane Smith will be featured in the Mail on Sunday on 9 June 2024?
The feature will celebrate Nicola and the whole Jane Smith Financial Planning team’s position in VouchedFor Top Rated Firms, so be sure to grab your copy on 9 June!
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