During the Coronavirus pandemic there has been much talk of the social consequences of lockdown, from dealing with the practical issues through to how best to maintain mental health. For many the economic and financial consequences are equally impactful.
In light of the above, members of the professional body The Personal Finance Society (PFS) continue to support forces personnel and veterans via Forces MoneyPlan, a free, one-off, confidential service offering a 45- minute money guidance consultation by phone or online from a qualified financial adviser and member of the PFS who are fully compliant with its code of ethics.
This service does not involve the sale of any financial products or services. This service is part of the PFS’s pro bono offering, all about supporting service personnel and veterans to better understand their financial position, needs and options so they can go on to make better informed decisions about their finances in general or in respect of a specific financial issue (for example, buying a house or reviewing retirement options)
Currently we take referrals from members of the On Course Foundation, Blesma, The Forces Pension Society and via the Veterans Gateway, but are always keen to engage with other organisations affiliated to Cobseo so their members can take advantage of this service too. If your organisation would like to find out how Forces MoneyPlan might support your members, please contact our scheme administrator Lyn New at lyn.new@thepfs.org or telephone her on 07900 226151 where you can leave a message. If you just want more information, whether you are a forces charity or an individual who thinks you may benefit from financial guidance, please click on the following link: https://www.thepfs.org/about-us/initiatives/forces-moneyplan
In the meantime, please be aware that a major event like Coronavirus can initiate new types of scam activity. When it comes to financial services, scammers are often quite sophisticated and opportunistic and the industry regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority has created an area on its website to help you find out about such scams, how they could affect you and how to protect yourself and family members. Please take a look: www.fca.org.uk/news/news-stories/avoid-coronavirus-scams
