LIBF launches retirement planning qualification for advisers

The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF) has launched a new retirement planning qualification for financial advisers.

LIBF launches retirement planning qualification for advisers

The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF) has launched a new retirement planning qualification for financial advisers.

The qualification is designed to help advisers navigate increasingly complex retirement needs for their clients.

The new Level 6 Financial Planning in Retirement (FPIR) covers all aspects of retirement planning, from pensions and inheritance tax to long-term care and equity release.

John Somerville, head of financial services and professional education at LIBF, said: “Later-life planning has become increasingly complex and older clients now need a much more sophisticated level of advice.

“We’re living longer, which is great news, but income in retirement has become more uncertain.

“More people have defined contribution pensions, meaning they have to actively manage their pension pots in retirement, and they’re likely to have income from multiple sources – including potentially from property.

“Inheritance tax, gifting, equity release and long-term care are just a few of the other things advisers and their clients need to consider.

“This is an expanding market, but a much more bespoke market, meaning advisers need to have more sophisticated levels of knowledge and expertise to really be able to understand individuals’ needs.

“This new qualification recognises that, and uses case studies and ‘real-life’ evidence to really bring these subjects to life.

“Advisers can also study this as part of an advanced diploma, if they want to take their career to that next level.”