In this regular column for Financial Planning Today, new columnist Carly Dunningham, chair of the CISI's Financial Planning Forum, looks at the 'calming' role Financial Planners can play in clients' lives amid a seeming sea of chaos. You can read this article and more top content in the latest issue of Financial Planning Today magazine.

In an increasingly uncertain world, I believe as Financial Planners we can play a vital role in keeping clients calm and focused on long-term goals.

With global tensions rising and political shifts creating instability - such as Donald Trump’s influence on international affairs and fears of escalating conflict - many clients feel anxious about their financial security.

Closer to home, the UK government’s recent announcement that pensions may fall under inheritance tax (IHT) from 2027 has sparked concerns, leading some to consider drastic actions like large pension withdrawals to gift money now.

At times like these, our role as planners is more important than ever. Clients look to us for reassurance, guidance, and a steady hand. Rash decisions made in fear can have long-term consequences.

Premature pension withdrawals, for example, could lead to unnecessary tax liabilities, loss of compound growth and reduced retirement income. Making decisions based on short-term headlines rather than strategic Financial Planning can be costly.

Instead of reacting impulsively, clients should be encouraged to take a measured approach. Education is key - helping them understand that policy changes may take years to come into effect and could even be reversed by a future government. 

By maintaining clear, open communication and reinforcing the principles of long-term planning, we can help clients make informed choices rather than emotional ones. Our job is not just about managing money - it’s about managing emotions and providing clarity in a world that often feels chaotic.

Now, more than ever, Financial Planners must be the voice of reason.

Carly Dunningham is a Chartered and Certified Financial Planner. She is the new Chair of the CISI Financial Planning Forum and a voice for the profession.

https://www.cisi.org

• This column first appeared in Financial Planning Today magazine, Mar-Apr 2025 edition. Carly's column appears in each issue of the magazine. You can subscribe to the magazine by registering for this website and then checking package options.

In this regular column for Financial Planning Today, our new columnist Carly Dunningham, chair of the CISI's Financial Planning Forum, shares some personal reflections on how planners can help clients coping with grief.

As Financial Planners, we play a vital role in our clients' lives, helping them navigate complex decisions.

Our profession demands clarity, focus and a deep commitment to addressing each client’s unique needs.

However, life can throw challenges our way too, and bereavement is one of the most profound. Balancing grief with being at your best for your clients can be incredibly challenging.

This is something I experienced first-hand following the loss of my mum this year. It has been a deeply upsetting time for me and my family, bringing a wave of complex emotions that have affected my focus, energy and ability to be present with others.

Grief is not something you can compartmentalise, and learning how to navigate these feelings has been essential for my personal and professional life.

Grief affects everyone differently. It can cloud judgment, sap energy, and disrupt focus - qualities critical to a Financial Planner’s role. Acknowledging and understanding these impacts is the first step to managing them effectively.

Being open with colleagues and management can also foster support.

While the instinct to "push through" might be strong, delegating tasks or adjusting workloads can help you meet client expectations without overwhelming yourself. These adjustments are not a weakness but a practical approach to maintaining professionalism.

Interestingly, personal grief can deepen empathy and strengthen connections with clients, especially those dealing with sensitive issues.

This is certainly something I have found and by navigating my own challenges, I feel I’ve become more compassionate towards others and better equipped to support them.

Carly Dunningham is a Chartered and Certified Financial Planner. She is the new Chair of the CISI Financial Planning Forum.

https://www.cisi.org

• This column first appeared in Financial Planning Today magazine, Jan-Feb 2025 edition. Carly's column appears in each issue of the magazine. You can subscribe to the magazine by registering for this website and then checking package options.