Posts by Marc Dicks-Jones
Musical health: The surprising benefits of putting on your favourite tunes
A musical interlude, such as playing an instrument or listening to tunes, can be great entertainment. But it can also bring a whole host of physical and mental health benefits, boosting your brainpower and improving your wellbeing.
Guide: Everything you need to know about the State Pension
The State Pension often provides a reliable income in retirement that’s an important part of your overall financial plan. Yet, many people don’t understand how the State Pension works or what they’re entitled to. This useful guide covers the essentials you need to know, from when you can claim the State Pension to how the income it provides will increase each year.
What footballer Kevin Keegan tells us about retirement planning
When footballer Kevin Keegan retired, he realised he’d lost his sense of purpose and returned to the UK as a football manager. Without thinking about how to replace what you lose when you step back from work, retirement may not be fulfilling. Find out what you can learn from Keegan and how to focus on wellbeing when creating a retirement plan.
4 ways homeowners could benefit from rising house prices
8 in 10 homes in the UK have increased in value by more than 5% since 2020. As a homeowner, that’s good news, but as the wealth is tied up in your property, it can seem like it won’t affect your budget that much. Discover four ways rising property prices could support your short- and long-term finances.
How pension and Inheritance Tax policy changes could affect your legacy
From April 2027, pensions are expected to fall within your estate. This may mean reviewing your estate plan or that you need to consider Inheritance Tax for the first time. Find out more about the policy change and why it could affect your legacy.
How to improve your wellbeing at work
Having good physical and mental health has been shown to improve productivity in the workplace. Find out how you can improve your wellbeing at work so you can perform at your best.
4 times you might want to review your financial plan
Life is often unexpected, and your financial plan should be updated to reflect changes to your circumstances or goals to ensure it continues to reflect your needs. Read about four reasons why you might want to schedule an extra financial review.
Unsure how to access your pension at retirement? Here’s what you need to know
More than half of pension holders don’t know how they can access their savings when they retire. Find out more about annuities, flexi-access drawdown, and withdrawing lump sums to understand which option could be right for you.
Planning for care: Making later-life support part of your financial plan
While many people live independently later in life, planning for potential care costs could provide you with more options should you need support. Read about some of the ways you might make care part of your long-term financial plan, such as using assets to create a regular income or considering property wealth.
Guide: Planning for a longer life: Wellbeing tips and financial management strategies
Average life expectancies have increased significantly in recent years. While this is good news, it could present challenges for your health and your finances. This practical guide looks at some of the wellbeing steps you might take so you can enjoy your later years and key considerations when you’re creating a long-term financial plan.
Investment market update: June 2025
While the effect of trade uncertainty on investment markets eased in June, tensions in the Middle East worsened and led to volatility. Find out what else may have affected your investment portfolio recently.
Why you don’t need to experience a financial shock to benefit from a safety net
A financial safety net can be incredibly valuable when you face an unexpected event. However, the wellbeing benefits can go beyond that by offering you peace of mind even when you’re plans are on track.