Blog

Liz Dalgetty Mar 2023

Q&A: Why are we waiting?

I recently lost my father after a short battle with cancer. He was my mother’s full time carer, she has very advanced Alzheimer’s. Both my parents' wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney are straight forward, which offered some relief after an emotional few months. However, while some organisations are working seamlessly with us, others are making it much more difficult - like my mother’s bank. So far it has taken us more than six months to get them to recognise my mother’s LPA. Why is it taking so long? The stress is really taking its toll on my family.

Jenna Hopkins Mar 2023

Can I leave my pet in a will?

Q: I am in my late 70s and own a dog. I am worried about what will happen to her if I’m not around to look after her - what can I do?

I’ve had my faithful Labrador for around 8 years now and I got her after my lovely wife died. In the last year or so I’ve noticed my health deteriorating. If I had to go into hospital, how can I make sure she is looked after? Also, if I were to pass away, what will happen to her? In other words, can I include my beloved pet Labrador in my will?

Julian Harvey Mar 2023

Spring budget summary - at a glance

Yesterday (15th March 2023), Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveiled his first Budget in the wake of rising energy bills and a cost of living crisis.

Bryony Palmer Feb 2023

The energy bills that are driving businesses towards insolvency

The rising cost of living is never far from the headlines, but if your livelihood is at stake then you’re probably more worried than most.

Liz Dalgetty Feb 2023

As the temperatures drop and cost of heat increases are you looking after your loved ones?

According to a recent report by the BBC, 10 degrees is the average temperature they will be living in if they cannot afford to heat their homes. Not only does this make for an unpleasant environment, it can also have a dramatic effect on our bodies as we age - worse if you are elderly or vulnerable too.

Liz Dalgetty Feb 2023

Make sure you’re not paying a “pensioner premium”

It occurred to me during a conversation with a client recently that it’s not just elderly or vulnerable people that can struggle to keep up with day to day tasks. With increasing developments in technology it’s easier for some of us to keep pace - but what about those who can’t and why are they being punished?

Bryony Palmer Feb 2023

Do I have to pay my Bounce Back Loan if my business goes bust?

I own a hospitality business and during the Covid 19 pandemic, we lost several large clients which left us struggling to stay afloat. I applied for a Bounce Back Loan, which offered no repayment and no interest for 12 months, with a low APR following that term.