Business Details
20 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Financial Planning Solutions
Acumen Financial is dedicated to redefining financial planning through integrity-driven, client-centric services. Founded in 2006 by Managing Director Angela Maher, we have grown into a respected firm with 21 staff managing over 350 million in assets. Our team of 10 highly experienced financial planners combines 184 years of collective expertise to deliver tailored solutions across pensions, investments, and wealth management. We operate with a fee-only model, ensuring unbiased advice free from product-based commissions. Our open-door policy guarantees clients access to guidance via phone, email, or face-to-face consultations.We prioritise transparency in all dealings, with clear fee structures and investment strategies tailored to individual needs. Our advisers adhere to a rigorous ethical standard, only recommending products they would offer to their own families. We collaborate with top-tier investment houses to separate financial planning from asset management, optimising client outcomes. Our commitment to simplifying complex financial matters through plain English communication has earned us trust across Lancashire and beyond. With offices in Burscough and Nateby, we serve clients throughout the North West and further afield.
Services
Financial Planning
Retirement Planning
Equity Release Advice
Investment Management
Life Insurance Advice
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We operate a fee-only model with transparent pricing structures
- Our team combines 184 years of collective financial advisory experience
- We collaborate exclusively with top-tier investment management firms
- All advisers adhere to a strict ethical code requiring family-like recommendations
- We provide consolidated investment reporting through our Wrap account services
Associations and certifications
- Financial Conduct Authority
Services
Financial Planning
Our comprehensive financial planning service creates tailored strategies for long-term wealth management. We assess individual circumstances to develop holistic plans covering pensions, investments, and estate planning. With a focus on tax efficiency and wealth preservation, our advisers help clients achieve financial security while maintaining flexibility for life's changes.
Retirement Planning
Specialist retirement planning guidance ensures optimal pension utilisation and sustainable income streams. We evaluate current provisions and recommend solutions for both defined contribution and final salary schemes. Our strategies incorporate tax-efficient withdrawals and longevity planning to support comfortable retirement lifestyles aligned with personal aspirations.
Equity Release Advice
Expert equity release guidance helps homeowners access property wealth while maintaining financial security. We explain lifetime mortgage options and home reversion plans, assessing suitability against individual circumstances. Our advice considers inheritance implications and alternative funding sources to ensure responsible decision-making.
Investment Management
Through selected partner platforms, we provide diversified investment solutions tailored to risk profiles and objectives. Our Wrap accounts consolidate holdings for simplified reporting while maintaining investment choice. We monitor performance against benchmarks and adjust strategies to respond to market changes and evolving client needs.
Life Insurance Advice
We offer impartial life insurance guidance to protect dependants and business interests. Our analysis covers term assurance, critical illness cover, and income protection policies. We ensure appropriate coverage levels while considering existing provisions and affordability requirements to create balanced protection strategies.
People
Angela Maher
Managing Director
Founder of Acumen Financial with over 25 years' experience in financial services. Holds BA DipPFS qualifications and established the firm's ethical framework. Leads strategic direction while maintaining client relationships.
Jon Landy
Director
Joined Acumen in 2008, became Director in 2012. Brings extensive investment expertise and operational leadership. Focuses on client acquisition and service delivery standards across the advisory team.
Questions
What financial planning services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive services including retirement planning, investment management, equity release advice, life insurance, and estate planning tailored to individual needs.
How are your fees structured?
We operate a transparent fee-only model with no product commissions. Charges are based on time spent and complexity, with clear agreements before service commencement.
Do you work with clients outside Lancashire?
While based in Lancashire, we serve clients across the UK through remote consultations and digital communication tools while maintaining personal service standards.
How do you select investment providers?
We collaborate with top-tier investment houses after rigorous due diligence to ensure quality service and competitive pricing for client portfolios.
What qualifications do your advisers hold?
Our team holds professional qualifications including DipPFS and maintains ongoing training to meet regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
How often do you review financial plans?
We recommend annual reviews but provide ongoing monitoring, with adjustments made in response to market changes or personal circumstances as needed.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Graeme Nuttall
Oct 28, 2020
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As a first time buyer, but not just first time buyer but also found myself navigating through a shared ownership deal as well. I found Acumen to thoroughly professional, patient and knowledgable helping me to decide on the best mortgage deal for my own personal circumstances. Kenny was attentive and patient as I grew in confidence helping and advising me through a subject I had no prior knowledge. A great service, I would recommend Acumens service.
Ian Webster
Dec 17, 2019
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Angela and the team have grown steadily over the years and have continued to provide excellent service and advice. There is no pressure just pure guidance and assistance wherever needed. Very well trusted and respected, professional organisation. Highly recommended.
Rachel Birch
May 09, 2019
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Really appreciated the up-to-date and expert advice from Acumen. Financial planning is now something I don't try an avoid! When I approached Acumen, I had no idea about pensions and after going through the process with Jon, I feel so much better about my choices and what my pension can deliver. Thanks to the team!
Dean Atkinson
Jul 30, 2015
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Great Financial discussion, from an excellent company, which offers very clear and honest advice. Highly recommend, especially for Pensions & investments.
