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Useful links

For your information, here are some useful links for independent financial advisers.  Please note that National Savings and Investments does not make any particular recommendation and is not responsible for the content of these sites.

Institute of Financial Planning

The Institute of Financial Planning is the professional body responsible for raising standards in financial planning and holds the licence to market and administer the Certified Financial Planner Licence in the UK.  This is the highest standard in Financial Planning and is now held by over 70,000 individuals around the world.  The Institute welcomes members from all backgrounds and can help individuals and businesses apply financial planning to improve their results.  It can also help with a move to the fee-based arena.  An organisation with the future in mind. If you would like to find out more about becoming a member call 01179 452470 or visit www.financialplanning.org.uk

IFA Promotion Ltd

IFA Promotion's 10,350 member firms (covering over 20,000 registered individuals) have licensed use of the IFA logo, access to branded marketing material and free entry onto the IFAP consumer and corporate databases.  If you would like to find out more about becoming a member please telephone the IFAP hotline on 0117 972 3333 or log onto www.unbiased.co.uk and visit the member section

Association of Independent Financial Advisers

AIFA is the voice of the IFA.  It represents IFAs to Government and the Regulators, and provides an up-to-date news and information service about everything which affects the environment in which an IFA's business operates.  The AIFA also offers a technical help-line to help IFAs with any queries or concerns.  To join, call 020 7628 1287 or visit www.aifa.net to find out more about becoming a member

Fee Based Advice

In the new depolarised world it will be increasingly difficult for consumers to obtain impartial advice. A national association called Fee Based Advice has been formed to help IFAs make the transition to fees, and provide consumers with advice unconnected with the sale of products and free from commission bias. The true independent is provided with national PR/Marketing, support and training. The consumer is able to access impartial advice from experts throughout the UK.
Telephone:   08702 010 111
Facsimile: 08702 010 222

Financial Services Authority

General information about financial services is available from the Financial Services Authority (FSA). The FSA is an independent watchdog set up by the government to regulate services and protect your rights. It provides free and independent information about financial matters on its website at www.fsa.gov.uk