Hands holding a paper family

Have You Forgotten About Your Child Trust Fund? Here’s How to Find It

by Financial Planning

What is a Child Trust Fund?

A Child Trust Fund (CTF) is a special savings account the UK government gave to children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011. The government gave parents a voucher worth £250 or £500 (depending on the family’s income) to open the account, and family members could add more money over time.

The idea was to give every child a little nest egg to help them when they turned 18. But now, many young people don’t even know they have one  and millions of pounds are sitting unclaimed.

Who Can Claim the Money?

If you were born in the UK between 2002 and 2011, you might have a Child Trust Fund in your name  even if your parents never opened the account. In that case, HMRC would have opened one for you.

You can access the money from age 18. If you’re already 18 or older, you can withdraw it. If you’re 16 or 17, you can take control of it and decide what to do with it when you turn 18.

Parents or guardians can also find the account for children under 18.

How Much Money Might Be in There?

The amount in the fund depends on how much was added and how it was invested. Some accounts may have grown to £1,000 or more, especially if family added money or it earned good returns.

Even if it’s just the government’s original payment, it’s still free money!

How to Find Your Child Trust Fund

If you don’t know where your CTF is, don’t worry  the government has made it easy to find out.

You can use the official government tool here:

Find a Child Trust Fund – GOV.UK

To use the service, you’ll need:

  • Your National Insurance number
  • A Government Gateway account (you can create one if you don’t have it)

Once you’ve logged in, HMRC will search for your account and tell you where it’s held  usually with a bank or investment company. From there, you can contact them to access or manage your money.

Don’t Miss Out!

More than one million people haven’t claimed their Child Trust Funds yet  and that could be hundreds or even thousands of pounds sitting unclaimed.

So, if you (or your child) were born between 2002 and 2011, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check. It’s quick, free, and it could give you a nice financial boost!

A mature couple sat on the sofa during a meeting with a financial planner

Why working with a Financial Adviser can be one of the best decisions you make

by Financial Planning

When it comes to managing money, many people rely on instincts, internet research, or well-meaning advice from friends and family.

With life getting more complex and financial decisions having bigger consequences, there’s growing value in having a professional in your corner. That’s where a qualified financial adviser can make a real difference.

Here’s why working with a UK financial adviser isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for anyone who wants to make smarter, more confident financial choices.

1. Clarity and confidence in your finances

Most people have multiple financial goals: saving for retirement, helping children onto the property ladder, protecting loved ones, or even just getting a handle on everyday budgeting. A financial adviser helps you prioritise these goals, understand what’s possible, and build a realistic plan to get there.

You walk away knowing where you stand and what steps to take next. That clarity brings peace of mind.

2. Regulated advice you can trust

UK financial advisers are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)”meaning they’re held to high professional standards.

3. Tax Efficiency and Long-Term Planning

One of the biggest advantages advisers offer is helping you use tax allowances effectively, especially around pensions, ISAs, inheritance, and capital gains. Over time, this can make a big difference to your wealth.

Advisers also ensure that your plans are sustainable. Whether it’s your retirement income, passing on wealth, or managing risk, they stress-test your strategy and adjust it over time.

4. Avoiding Mistakes That Cost You More

Emotions often drive financial decisions such as pulling investments when markets fall or delaying retirement planning until it’s almost too late. An adviser acts as a buffer between you and poor decisions. They bring experience, perspective, and discipline.

In fact, studies by organisations like Vanguard suggest that working with a financial adviser can add real value, not just through better investments, but by helping clients avoid common pitfalls.

5. It’s Not Just About the Numbers

The best financial advisers don’t just focus on spreadsheets. They take time to understand your values, your family, and what really matters to you. That human connection combined with expertise is what makes great financial planning so valuable.

Final Thoughts

Engaging with a financial adviser is not about giving up control of your money, it’s about gaining a trusted partner to help you make better decisions. Whether you’re just starting to build wealth or preparing for retirement, good advice pays off financially and emotionally.

If you’re curious about how advice could benefit you, start with a no obligation conversation.

Risk warning: Please note that estate planning and Inheritance Taxation advice is not covered by the FCA.

 

A man adding up numbers on a calculator next to a piggy bank

The Psychology of Money: How Emotions and Biases Affect Financial Decisions (And How a Financial Adviser Can Help)

by Financial Planning

Money is not just a number—it’s a deeply emotional subject. From the excitement of a payslip to the stress of mounting debt, our financial decisions are influenced by far more than just logic. Understanding the psychology behind money can help us navigate the complex relationship we have with our finances, making better decisions and leading to more financial security.

A mature couple sat on the sofa during a meeting with a financial planner

The Benefits of Placing Life Policies in Trust in the UK

by Financial PlanningInvestment Advice

In the UK, life insurance is a popular financial product that provides security and peace of mind for policyholders and their loved ones. However, many people overlook an essential aspect of life insurance planning: placing their policies in trust. By setting up a life policy in trust, individuals can ensure that their life insurance payout is handled in the most efficient and beneficial way.

Middle aged couple viewing information on a laptop during a meeting

The Importance of Financial Advice: Why It’s Essential for Your Financial Future

by Financial Planning

Financial advice is a critical resource for anyone looking to achieve long-term financial success. By partnering with a professional, you gain expert guidance, personalised planning, and risk management strategies. The cost of not having financial advice can be significant, from missed investment opportunities to financial mistakes that can affect your future