FAQS
GOT A QUESTION? WE HAVE THE ANSWER
What are the key cities, towns and areas you work with clients in?
We work with clients across the north-east and throughout England. This includes Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, Durham, Gosforth, Morpeth and surrounding areas.
What is your FCA registration number?
What makes your firm different from other financial planners?
We focus on clear, long-term financial planning rather than short-term product sales. We are small by choice, which allows us to offer a more personal service built around your goals and priorities.
Do you have any client reviews or written/video testimonials, and where can I view them?
Yes. Client reviews and testimonials can be viewed on independent review platforms, including Google and VouchedFor.
Does your firm hold Accredited status as awarded by the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI)?
No. Mission Financial Planning does not hold Accredited status as awarded by the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment. Neil Henderson holds Chartered status through the Chartered Insurance Institute instead, which gives you confidence that you are receiving advice from a highly qualified professional focused on helping you make informed decisions about your future.
Does your firm hold Chartered status as awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII)?
No. Mission Financial Planning does not hold Chartered Firm status, but Neil holds Chartered status as awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute and is also a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society. That means you still benefit from working with someone whose qualifications reflect a high level of technical knowledge, professionalism and commitment to delivering good client outcomes.
Are your planners Chartered or Certified?
Yes. Neil is a Chartered financial planner, which means he has met rigorous professional and qualification standards. For you, that means added reassurance that you are working with a highly qualified financial planner who is committed to delivering high-quality advice.
Where are you based, and do you work with clients outside your local area?
We are based in the north-east of England. We work with clients both locally, in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, Durham, Gosforth, and Morpeth, and across England, using secure online meetings and technology.
How long has Mission Financial Planning Limited been providing financial advice?
Mission Financial Planning has been providing financial planning and advice for more than four years. Neil has more than 20 years of experience, supporting clients through different economic conditions and life stages.
Do you have parking at your office?
Parking details can be discussed when booking a meeting. We will always aim to make visiting us as straightforward as possible.
Where are face-to-face meetings held?
Face-to-face meetings are usually held at our office or another mutually convenient location agreed in advance. We will always make arrangements that work well for you. Our office address is: Berwick Workspace, Boarding School Yard, 90 Marygate, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1BN.
Can I choose between meeting in person or on a video call?
Yes. You can choose to meet us face-to-face, by video call, or by phone, depending on what suits you best. For new clients, the initial meeting will be completed via video call.
Does the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulate you?
Yes. Mission Financial Planning Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), which sets standards for advice, professionalism, and client protection.
Do you offer independent financial advice?
Yes. We provide independent financial advice, which means we can recommend products and solutions from across the whole market rather than being tied to specific providers.
Can you advise on protection such as life insurance, critical illness cover, and income replacement?
Yes. We advise on personal and business protection to help safeguard you, your family financially, and your business.
Can you advise on investments such as ISAs (Individual Savings Accounts)?
Yes. ISAs form a core part of many clients’ investment strategies.
Can you help with Inheritance Tax planning or estate planning?
Yes. We provide guidance on Inheritance Tax planning and work alongside solicitors on estate planning.
Do you offer advice on long-term care or later-life planning?
No. We do not offer advice on long-term care or later-life planning, although we do provide advice on retirement planning.
Can you advise on final salary or defined benefit transfers?
No. We do not advise on final salary or defined benefit transfers.
Can you advise on self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs)?
Yes, where a commercial property is required within a pension. In other cases, a personal pension will generally provide sufficient investment options.
Can you help me invest an inheritance I’ve received?
Yes. We help clients invest inherited money in line with their goals, timeframes, and tax position.
Can you help with ethical or sustainable investing?
Yes. We can incorporate ethical, responsible, or sustainable investing preferences into your portfolio so your investments reflect your values.
Can you help me take my pension tax-efficiently?
Yes. We help clients access pensions in a tax-efficient way, taking current legislation and allowances into account.
Can you help me consolidate multiple pensions?
Yes. We can review your pensions and advise on whether consolidation is suitable for you.
Can you advise on occupational pensions?
Yes. We can advise on workplace and occupational pension schemes. However, this does not include defined benefit schemes.
Can you advise on personal pensions?
Yes. We advise on personal pensions, including contributions, investment choices, and retirement options.
Can you advise on equity release?
No. We do not advise on equity release.
Can you advise on mortgages?
No. We do not advise on mortgages.
How can I find your fees?
How do your fees compare to other planners?
Our fees are designed to reflect the level of service, expertise, and ongoing support we provide. We aim to offer clear value through the work we do and the relationships we build with clients.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
How do I know if your fees are competitive?
We are transparent about our costs and encourage clients to compare our fees and service with those of other firms. We believe this helps you make an informed decision.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
Do you charge VAT?
VAT is not chargeable. If this were ever to change, you would be informed.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
Do you get commission?
For investment advice, we are fee-based. Some protection products may pay commission, and this is always disclosed.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
Do you charge fixed fees or a percentage of my investments?
We may use fixed fees, percentage-based fees, or a combination of both, depending on the service provided. We will explain the basis of our charges clearly before you proceed.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
What do you typically charge for a financial plan?
Fees are disclosed on our fees page and will be confirmed at the initial meeting after the complexity of your needs have been understood.
What is your minimum fee?
Minimum fees depend on the type of advice and service required. We will discuss this with you upfront, and initial information is available on the fees page of our website.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
How do you charge for financial advice?
We charge clear, transparent fees that are agreed in advance and explained in writing. Initial information is available on the fees page of our website.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
Yes. The initial consultation is free, without obligation, and lasts around 40 minutes.
To demonstrate our commitment to transparency and help you understand our fees at the earliest opportunity, we have published our fees on our website. Click here to see them.
Are you featured on VouchedFor?
Yes. We are featured on VouchedFor with more than 100 reviews. Our profile can be accessed through our website or directly on the VouchedFor platform.
Have you won any awards or accreditations?
Yes. Neil has been recognised as a VouchedFor Top Rated adviser in 2026, an award based entirely on feedback from his clients.
How do you measure client satisfaction?
We gather feedback through Google and VouchedFor reviews, surveys and ongoing conversations with clients. This helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can continue to improve.
Do you have client stories or case studies I can read?
We have Google and VouchedFor reviews that show how we have helped clients.
How can I check your FCA registration and authorisation?
You can check our details on the Financial Services Register using our firm name or FCA number. There is also a link on our website, and our FCA number is 955889.
Are you insured to give financial advice?
Yes. We hold professional indemnity insurance, as required by the Financial Conduct Authority.
How do you keep my personal data secure?
We follow UK data protection laws and use secure systems to protect your personal information. Keeping your data safe is an important part of how we work.
What happens if something goes wrong or I have a complaint?
We have a formal complaints procedure in place. If you’d like a copy of the complaints procedure, please ask. If a complaint cannot be resolved, it can be referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Are my investments protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)?
Eligible investments may be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, subject to its limits and conditions. The level of protection will depend on the type of product and provider involved.
Is there a minimum amount of investable assets or income I need to become a client?
Initial financial planning and ongoing services do have minimum fees, which are set out in the fees section of our website.
Can you help if I already have existing investments or pensions elsewhere?
Yes. We regularly review and advise on existing pensions and investments.
Do you offer financial advice for expats or non-UK residents?
No. We do not offer financial advice for expats or non-UK residents.
Do you specialise in working with business owners, retirees, or professionals?
We work with a range of clients, but we have significant experience in these groups. This means we understand many of the issues and decisions they commonly face.
Can you help clients manage their finances after a bereavement?
Yes. We provide clear, compassionate support during difficult times.
Can you help clients who have sold, or are in the process of selling, a business?
Yes. We help clients plan before, during, and after a business sale. We would also work alongside tax and legal experts where needed.
Can you help clients who have inherited money?
Yes. We help clients invest and plan wisely after receiving an inheritance.
Do you work with clients approaching retirement or already retired?
Yes. Many of our clients are approaching retirement or are already retired.
Do you work with company directors or self-employed clients?
Yes. We regularly advise company directors and self-employed individuals.
Do you work with younger clients who are still building wealth?
Yes. We help younger clients build strong financial foundations and plan for the future.
What type of clients do you typically work with?
We work with professionals, families, and business owners who are looking for long-term financial clarity. Our approach is built around helping clients plan with confidence.
Can you help me plan my retirement?
Yes. Retirement planning is a core part of what we do. Read our reviews to see how we’ve helped people like you retire successfully.
Can you help me retire early?
Yes. We help clients assess whether early retirement is achievable and what steps may be needed to make it possible.
How often will I meet with my planner?
Typically, you will meet with your planner at least once a year. Additional meetings can be arranged if needed.
Do you provide an online portal for clients to view their investments?
Yes. We use a secure online client portal that allows you to see your investments and documents in one place and share information securely.
Will I be able to see the value of my investments online?
Yes. Most clients can view their investments online through secure platforms and our online client portal.
Can I see an example of a financial plan?
We do not provide generic examples, because each financial plan is tailored to the person it is designed for. Rather than showing you something broad that may not reflect your needs, we focus on building a plan that is shaped around you and what you want to achieve.
What happens if my planner leaves the firm?
I am the sole planner at Mission. We do have continuity plans in place, including a qualified adviser locum who would take over your relationship, with full access to your plan, history, and my support services if I were unable to work.
Can you coordinate with my mortgage adviser if they need information from you?
Yes. With your permission, we are happy to liaise with other professionals involved in your finances.
Can you work alongside my accountant or solicitor?
Yes. We regularly work with accountants and solicitors so that your financial, tax, and legal planning is joined up.
What happens if my circumstances change?
If your circumstances change, we will update your plan and adjust our recommendations accordingly. This helps ensure your planning continues to reflect your life, income, and priorities.
Do you offer cashflow forecasting/planning as part of your service?
Yes. Cashflow planning is a key part of our approach and helps you understand how today’s decisions could affect your future.
How often will I hear from my financial planner?
This depends on the service you choose, but clients typically have regular reviews and can contact us whenever needed. We also produce a monthly newsletter.
What happens if my financial planner is away on holiday?
If your financial planner is away on holiday, another member of the team will still be available to help, so you will continue to have support and continuity of service. If any advice is needed, we will make sure you are looked after as soon as possible.
Do you have a female planner I can work with?
At present, we do not have a female planner in the business. However, we understand that this can be important to some clients, so we will always have an open conversation from the outset to understand your preferences and make sure you feel comfortable and supported.
Do I have to sign up to your services at an initial meeting?
No. There is no pressure to proceed, and you can take time to decide whether you would like to work with us.
How long should I allow for an initial meeting?
Most initial meetings last around 40 minutes. This gives us time to understand your circumstances and answer any early questions you may have.
What happens in the first meeting?
The first meeting is a relaxed conversation about your goals, concerns, and what you want your money to achieve. It is not about giving detailed recommendations at that stage.
What do I need to bring to an initial meeting?
We will let you know in advance what would be helpful to bring. This often includes recent pension or investment statements and a general overview of your finances.
Do I have to pay for an initial meeting?
No. The initial meeting is usually at our cost and without obligation, giving you the opportunity to get to know us, ask any questions and see whether our approach feels right for you.
