The PFS has called for action to address what it called the “biggest savings gap since records began.”

The organisation stressed the importance of “accessibility to financial advice for all members of society, and the impact of shifting consumer demographics on the sector.”

The professional body revealed key topics for discussion at the its recent Symposium, in London, were regulatory developments and what the future of Financial Planning is likely to look like in 2019 and beyond.

The PFS’s says it took “hundreds of enquiries regarding the various initiatives being implemented for the sector.”

These included European Financial Planning qualifications; pro-bono programmes with the Citizens Advice MoneyPlan; Military charities Forces MoneyPlan; and financial education for our next generation.
 
Keith Richards, PFS chief executive, said: “With the biggest savings gap since records began and unprecedented political uncertainty, the relevance and demand for professional financial advice has never been greater.”
 
He added: “Our members know that the way to facilitate public trust in Financial Planning is through professionalism and 2018 has been a remarkable year for the PFS and our inclusive and growing membership.

“The power of personal finance to change lives will continue to shape how we respond to the challenges in 2019 and beyond.”