Over nine in 10 (95%) consumers receiving ongoing financial advice say it helps them reach and stay on track with their goals, according to new research from wealth manager St James’s Place.

Over eight in ten (85%) of those receiving ongoing financial advice surveyed by SJP said they were on track or ahead of their financial targets, in comparison to 64% of those not receiving advice.

Those receiving regular professional advice were more than twice as likely (68%) to have a structured financial plan in place than those who do not (32%), and were more likely to be working towards a specific goal (37% vs 16%).

Those receiving ongoing financial advice were also more prepared for retirement.

Six in ten (58%) of those receiving professional financial advice were saving for retirement, compared to just 35% of those without advice.

Advised clients were also twice as likely to be saving for their own care costs later in life (28% vs 14%).

The SJP research also found that financial advice also fuels more directional and purposeful choices.

Over eight in ten (85%) individuals receiving financial advice said their spending, saving and investing were aligned with their life aspirations, compared to just 60% of those not advised.

Claire Trott, head of advice at St. James’s Place, said: “As we approach the Autumn Budget next week, many clients may be tempted to shift to more of a short-term focus in response to policy announcements.

"This is where the role of advisers will be critical, providing perspective and reassurance to keep clients focused on their long-term objectives, rather than reacting to short-term noise.”

• Opinium surveyed 8,000 UK adults on behalf of SJP between 22 July and 5 August.