As Christmas gets closer and Britain looks forward to enjoying some festive cheer, you might be reflecting on what 2022 meant for you. It’s something that the team here at Ardent has been doing too, after an extremely busy year helping clients make the most of their wealth during the various challenges the year presented.
Discover some of 2022’s high points for the Ardent team, and how these could help provide you with financial peace of mind in 2023 and beyond.
1. We were named as a VouchedFor Top Rated firm
In March, VouchedFor named us in its 2022 Top Rated guide, which identifies Britain’s best financial advice firms based on client feedback. We couldn’t be prouder, as we are one of only 53 firms that were included in the guide.
Reviews are based on service, advice given and value for money. Each financial planner within a firm receives a score out of five, which then provides an overall score for the practice. We’re delighted to say that our planners all scored 4.9 each, which means that as a client, you have peace of mind that any advice we provide will be of the highest standard.
2. 100% of clients said we’re helping them achieve their goals
In May, we were delighted to reveal that our client questionnaires revealed that 100% of those we work with said that working with us has, or will, help them reach their financial goals. Furthermore, 100% of our clients said that:
- They would recommend us to friends and family
- They were satisfied with the speed of response from their adviser
- They were satisfied with the speed of response from our support team
- They were satisfied with their annual reviews.
More than 98% of clients said that they believed we understood their needs and objectives and were happy with the level of communication between meetings. Thank you to all our clients who provided such positive feedback, and rest assured we will continue to provide the highest levels of service going forward.
3. We launched our financial educational videos
As part of our commitment to make quality information more accessible, we launched our range of informative videos in 2022. The videos provide important financial information in a bite-sized and easy-to-understand way, so that you’re more able to make good financial choices.
The videos cover a range of subjects including protecting yourself from scams, long-term care, understanding your pensions and providing financial education to your children.
4. We provided a glimpse into the world of investing
In May, Damien Lardoux, head of impact investing at our preferred London-based fund manager, EQ Investors, gave a presentation to our clients and their guests at York’s beautiful Middletons Hotel. He provided a fascinating and entertaining insight into the world of investing, and why investing in Environmental, Sustainable and Governance funds (ESG) can be a force for good.
In October, EQ Investor’s Future Leaders Portfolio won Best Sustainable Portfolio Range at the distinguished 2022 Investment Week Sustainable Investment Awards. It scooped the coveted award for delivering sustainability, value for money and best in class solutions.
Our work with EQ investors demonstrates our commitment to making sure that any solution we provide will always have your best interests at its heart.
5. We were shortlisted for a prestigious business award
In October, we were one of three local companies to be shortlisted for the Employer of the Year section of the York Business Awards 2022. While we didn’t win, we are still extremely proud to have made it to the final stages of this prestigious local award.
6. We scooped a prestigious financial award (again)
In November, we were named as one of the UK’s best financial advice firms when we were included in New Model Adviser’s Top 100 award. We were particularly pleased to have been named again after winning it in 2021.
Companies of every size were judged from across the UK, covering a range of attributes including:
- Industry knowledge and qualifications
- Diligent use of technology
- Commitment to client education
- Use of clear and understandable communication
- Investments recommended.
We couldn’t be prouder to win the award again, as it demonstrates our commitment to helping clients achieve their goals in life while providing them with financial peace of mind.
7. Gary spoke at the Northern Family Law Conference
In November, Ardent’s managing director, Gary O’Brian, spoke at the Northern Family Law Conference in York. As he specialises in financial planning for divorcees, he talked about the importance of helping those going through a divorce understand their financial options, so that they enjoy short-term and long-term financial security.
If you are currently divorcing, or know someone who is, we would be happy to discuss how we could help you get your finances on track during an emotionally challenging time.
8. We scored 91% as a supportive place to work
As a company, we believe an excellent service for our clients starts with a happy and motivated team. That’s why we were delighted with the feedback from our 2022 employee engagement survey, which gave us an overall score of 91%.
It is the second time we have achieved the score, something unheard of. We were particularly proud that the senior management received 100% engagement for its relationship with the team, and as a company, we received 100% for providing a supportive environment.
9. Daniel and Declan passed milestone exams
In August, we were delighted when Declan Coates passed his Financial Adviser Level 4 apprenticeship with us after passing six challenging exams. Then in November, we were just as pleased when client relationship administrator, Dan Sanderson, passed the Chartered Insurance Institute’s Financial Planning Practice (RO6) exam.
This means he is now fully qualified to provide advice. The achievements recognise Declan’s and Daniel’s hard work and commitment to providing the best outcomes for our clients, which is why we’re delighted they are part of our team.
10. We made a £1,000 donation to our local food bank
As we head towards the festive season, we decided to support people in our local community by donating £1,000 to York Foodbank. At a time when so many are struggling with the rising cost of living, we were pleased to help those who are finding it difficult to make ends meet as food prices soar and energy bills skyrocket.
Our pledge to pay £50 to York Against Cancer charity for every referral received from an existing client will also continue.
Get in touch
If you work with us already, you will already know about our commitment to putting our clients at the heart of everything we do. Only then can we continue to deliver an award-winning service and provide excellent advice that is individual to you.
If you would like to discuss how our dedication to excellent advice and service could help you get more from your finances, please contact us on hello@ardentuk.com or call 01904 655 330.
