Almost half of consumers are more concerned about their finances now than they were six months ago.

The research by advice website unbiased.co.uk, ahead of the IFP’s Financial Planning Week from 21 to 27 November, found that savings and pension were of most concern to people.

Over 2,000 people were questioned for the survey.

Some 39 per cent of consumers were worried about their savings while 29 per cent were worried about pensions.

Worries varied by age, those aged 18-34 years old were most concerned about mortgages while those over-55 were concerned about paying for long-term care.

Financial Planning affects all age-groups and Financial Planning Week aims to encourage everyone to take account of their financial fitness.

Retirement planning was a consistent worry for consumers. Unbiased.co.uk says that most searches for a financial adviser on their site are about help with personal retirement planning.

To help consumers, the unbiased.co.uk website has put together a checklist of questions to think about when choosing a financial adviser.

These include what type of adviser, what to ask the adviser, qualifications and cost options.

Karen Barrett, chief executive at unbiased.co.uk said: “Given the economic climate over the last few years, Financial Planning should be at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Careful planning could make a real difference to both your current financial situation and also securing your future.

“Mortgages, pensions and savings for children are just a few of the pressures and considerations facing consumers right now and it is therefore imperative for people to get as much information and help as possible to get on track.”