Tuesday 13 June 2017

Domestic Cleaning Services Tonbridge and Kent

Most affordable and Professional Cleaning services in KENT and  TONBRIDGE
It can be hard to keep on top of your household chores when you lead a busy life. JK Cleaning offer a professional domestic cleaning service in which we can provide both contractual and one off cleaning services in Kent. We will arrange your domestic cleaning to suit your schedule and can even get it done whilst you’re at work, allowing you to come home to a fresh and sparkling home.  Visit for most affordable and quality Cleaning Company Kent

DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICES TONBRIDGE

A RANGE OF DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICES KENT

  • Carpet cleaning
  • Deep cleaning
  • Kitchen and oven cleaning
  • End of tenancy cleaning
  • External cleans
  • Window cleaning
  • Gutter and drain cleaning
  • Full property cleans
  • Spring cleaning
  • Builders’ cleans
  • And much more

Highy Professional Domestic Cleaners Kent

END OF TENANCY CLEANING

As well as our standard home cleaning service, we also offer end of tenancy cleaning, so that landlords can ensure their property is fresh and clean for new tenants. Our cleaning involves everything from vacuuming and polishing right through to carpet cleaning and oven cleaning.
In addition to end of tenancy cleaning, we also offer builders’ cleans, getting your home back in order when you’ve had building work done. Get in touch with us today to learn more. Domestic Cleaning Services Tonbridge

Domestic-cleaning-service-page-image-01-445x250

Are you looking for domestic cleaners that you can trust? Choose JK Cleaning in Kent.

Call: 01732 353 742
Visit website here:  jk-cleaning.co.uk

Saturday 6 May 2017

Understanding Inheritance Tax Rules

Importance of individuals understanding what is and what is not exempt from inheritance tax highlighted.

Those that are dealing with an estate after a spouse has died or who are planning their own affairs must take note of the nil rate band (N.R.B.). Any amount of money that falls within the limit of the N.R.B. will not incur tax after death. Until at least the 5th of April 2021 people will deal with a N.R.B. of £325,000. Money that over the N.R.B. is taxed at a considerable rate of 40%.

What Will Incur Inheritance Tax?

The value of assets in an estate are valued as a whole, for most people the single largest asset they will pass on will be property. The N.R.B. has historically closely tracked the average house price in the U.K. through successive governments. Any value over this amount will be subject to inheritance tax unless it qualifies for one or more of a number of exemptions.

What Is Exempt From Inheritance Tax?

The first important exemption is when an estate is transferred to a spouse. As long as the spouse is a resident of the U.K. the rule is simple, if they live overseas it is not always as cut and dry.

If the person who has died did so as a result of action whilst in the Armed Forces their estate does not qualify for inheritance tax. This also applies when it can be proven that death was hastened due to their participation in Armed Forces activity.

Gifts can also qualify as inheritance tax exemptions. A gift to a child under the age of 18 and that is for the purpose of that child’s maintenance is exempt. Gifts to charities and even political parties that hold at least one seat in the House of Commons also qualify.

Debbie Day.

Mobile : 07704 311021 Felixstowe Office : 01394 775711

deb.day@hoskinfinancial.co.uk www.debbiedayifa.co.uk

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL

Friday 28 April 2017

A Million Plus Pensioners Totally Reliant On Government Support

Private funds failing to cover pensioner’s expenses.

People are being warned to plan ahead and seek Financial Advice Suffolk as to how to make the most out of any savings they accrue during their working life. Group communications director at Just, a specialist retirement services provider Stephen Lowe explains that “the State will never provide a retirement income that allows for many comforts, so for those who do have some savings, good guidance about what to do with those savings is vital.”

Of those already in retirement, roughly 1.1 million pensioners live alone and are totally reliant on income from the state. This number shows a trend of increasing state reliance, up 26% for individuals between the ends of 2011 and 2016. April last year saw a 12 month increase of 15%, adding to fears the problem is continuing to accelerate.

When including couples, 330,000 more people depend on some form of state benefit completely. This figure includes those that are in receipt of disability benefits as well as state pensions and income related benefits.

How Much Does The State Provide For Pensioners?

For single pensioners, the average amount of money they receive is just £188 per week in the year 2015 to 2016. Being aware of how much the government deems sufficient to live on in retirement should encourage those that have not yet reached retirement age to do the best they can to build up personal savings and private pensions.

Pre-retirees should also be aware that this amount is not guaranteed as political decisions may change the state pension landscape. Currently, taxpayers are paying £850 million a week to cover the 4.6 million single pensioners currently in the U.K..

All of those not yet in retirement could benefit from saving as much as possible. As Mr Lowe states, the amount given to state pension recipients is only designed to cover basic needs, anything else is up to the individual to provide for themselves whilst they still can.

Paul Hoskin MD at Hoskin Financial

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL

Wednesday 26 April 2017

JK Cleaning: Excellent Domestic & Commercial Cleaners in Kent

Normally people with busy life schedule do not get time for cleaning activities. JK Cleaning Company is a Highly Professional Domestic Cleaners in Kent that offers both commercial & domestic Cleaning Services in Kent.

Like if you are too busy in your life that you don’t get time to look after your house cleaning, you don’t even get time to do the basic cleaning activities. JK cleaning reliable Domestic Cleaners in Kent offers quality cleaning services. Keeping your home clean is very important, particularly if you have small kids at home or someone in your family who catches diseases easily or allergic to dust. JK cleaners take care of everything and take all the cleaning responsibilities completely on their shoulders.

Same way, commercial cleaning services can prove to be a great help if you own a business or a firm. These services can help you in saving a considerable amount of time and effort while, and gives you piece of mind. It doesn't matter what the size of your commercial property, JK cleaning have great commercial cleaning services to make sure that your property remains in top condition. They also offer contractual cleaning service or a one off deep clean to offices, shops, hotels and more. They also offer a kitchen cleaning service for commercial kitchens that need some extra special care.

Get in touch with & discuss your cleaning requirements with them.

Saturday 15 April 2017

Promotion Team UK: A True Search Engine Optimisation Expert in Essex

Search engine optimization is the yardstick to measure various things about your website, through this you can know whether your website is doing well on search engines or not. In today’s world internet is the most important platform to promote your services, today almost everything is promoted through internet. So you can make out the idea that there are number of sites available on the web. If you want a good web presence then you need to do the good promotion of your website. For that the best thing you can do is go for search engine optimization.

Essex is the beautiful place in England, where now days the trend of promoting business, services or any other activity through internet marketing is increasing day by day.  Promotion or marketing or making a good presence on web can be done by a highly professional and experienced Search engine optimization expert.  Promotion Team UK is one of the highly experienced team of   Search Engine Optimisation in Essex they offer best SEO services at best possible prices. Although they are based in Essex, they have clients all over the United Kingdom and have an aim to have overseas clients within the next year.

Promotions Team UK Search Engine Optimisation Plan: 
  • The services they offer for Organic SEO in Essex are not based on fake long-term contracts, hidden fees, or shenanigans. They do fully honest business with clients.
  • They believe in Just affordable, reasonable pricing plans for all types of businesses.
  • You will start to see Google listing on the first page within 3 Months, although this normally happens quicker.
  • They don’t like the idea that their clients feeling as though they are in a contract so they are stuck in it. The paperwork is rolling monthly contract, which includes a 30 day “get out” clause. But they work so good that client never leaves them in between.
  • They do SEO primarily for Google and quite popular for doing the Google Safe SEO in Essex, mostly people uses Google as their main search engine. There are in fact thousands of search engines. They submit your website through their programs, which will automatically and steadily input your website to those not-so-popular search engines out there giving you a better chance of being found.

Contact them today & give your business good presence on the web.

Saturday 1 April 2017

Customers Missing Out On Larger Returns By Sticking With Cash I.S.A.s

I.S.A. customers encouraged to move their savings out of cash.

The majority of people with I.S.A.s are actively looking for the best option as The Share Centre’s investment manager Sheridan Admans reports “a 36% increase in the number of trades, as well as a considerable 72% increase in inflows year on year”.

Stocks And Shares I.S.A.s Out Perform Other Options

Just over a quarter of those whose actions were recorded have chosen to keep their investments in cash. Experts including True Potential are however warning that higher inflation could diminish their returns. They highlight the vast disparity between someone placing £20,000 in two I.S.A.s in 2017-18. The cash option would return around £200 in interest whereas a stocks and shares option could return around £2,400.

Ms Admans describes the most appealing stocks and shares investments as “high-yield defensive, large blue chip stocks with a recovery story”.

Looking at those who have not yet invested in stocks and shares I.S.A.s senior partner at True Potential, Mark Henderson points to what he calls “widespread inertia that means many savers remain overly exposed to cash. Everyone needs a rainy day fund but inflation is higher than most cash I.S.A. rates. He goes further to describe cash as “no longer a risk-free return but more like a return-free risk.”

The end of this tax year is viewed as a particularly good time to invest in an I.S.A. with the government’s Lifetime I.S.A. coming into force. Divisional director for development and technical consultancy at St James’s Place, Tony Müdd highlights the virtues of I.S.A.s pointing out “everyone has their own allowance – £15,240 in the current tax year – which means that couples can shelter £30,480 between them.”Financial Advice Suffolk

Senior analyst at AJ Bell, Tom Selby calls on the government to continue raising the personal allowance saying “the last thing we want is for it to be frozen at £20,000 for the next 10 years as many other allowances have been.”

Paul Hoskin MD at Hoskin Financial

Visit Financial Advice Suffolk and Mortgage Protection Ipswich

Sunday 26 March 2017

“Back Door Taxation” To Be Placed On Probate Process

Those dealing with a deceased’s estate to face higher fees.

It was announced via government websites that the fees charged for those going through the process of probate will change in May 2017.

Tiered System

The flat rate fee of £215 which could be reduced to just £155 by employing a solicitor will be replaced by a tiered system that is based on the value of the estate.

Although many are focusing on the increasing cost of those with valuable enough assets, those with lower value estates will have to pay nothing. Only those managing estates worth more than £50,000 will have to pay more. Those dealing with estates in excess of £1m will be charged between £8,000 and £20,000.

“Back Door Taxation”

Chief executive of Step, a company of professional family inheritance and estate planners George Hodgson described the change as “back door taxation.” He also points out that this is a charge that is imposed on families in the moment of grieving. Mortgage Protection Ipswich

Mr Hodgson is among those warning that many people will face higher charges. Financial planning expert at Old Mutual Wealth, Gordon Andrews says that the rise in house prices will push the value of many estates over the thresholds of higher fees. Since all those dealing with estates over £50,000 will be paying, a lot of people will have to face higher charges.

Mr Andrews says that “it is disappointing the government plans to press ahead with the new fee structure for grants of probates despite wide-scale concern from the industry.” The opposition comes partly from the fact that it is unclear that the value of somebodies estate directly determines the time and work it takes the courts to go through the probate process. Mr Andrews also argues that “these proposed changes will add further complexity to estate planning.”

Debbie Day.

Mobile : 07704 311021 Felixstowe Office : 01394 775711

deb.day@hoskinfinancial.co.uk www.debbiedayifa.co.uk

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL

Read Mortgage Protection IpswichFinancial Services Ipswich

Sunday 19 March 2017

Domestic Cleaning Services Tonbridge and Kent

Most affordable and Professional Cleaning services in KENT and  TONBRIDGE

It can be hard to keep on top of your household chores when you lead a busy life. JK Cleaning offer a professional domestic cleaning service in which we can provide both contractual and one off cleaning services in Kent. We will arrange your domestic cleaning to suit your schedule and can even get it done whilst you’re at work, allowing you to come home to a fresh and sparkling home.  Visit for most affordable and quality Cleaning Company Kent

DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICES TONBRIDGE

A RANGE OF DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICES KENT


  • Carpet cleaning
  • Deep cleaning
  • Kitchen and oven cleaning
  • End of tenancy cleaning
  • External cleans
  • Window cleaning
  • Gutter and drain cleaning
  • Full property cleans
  • Spring cleaning
  • Builders’ cleans
  • And much more
  • Highy Professional Domestic Cleaners Kent


END OF TENANCY CLEANING

As well as our standard home cleaning service, we also offer end of tenancy cleaning, so that landlords can ensure their property is fresh and clean for new tenants. Our cleaning involves everything from vacuuming and polishing right through to carpet cleaning and oven cleaning.

In addition to end of tenancy cleaning, we also offer builders’ cleans, getting your home back in order when you’ve had building work done. Get in touch with us today to learn more. Domestic Cleaning Services Tonbridge

Domestic-cleaning-service-page-image-01-445x250

Are you looking for domestic cleaners that you can trust? Choose JK Cleaning in Kent.

Call: 01732 353 742

Visit website here:  jk-cleaning.co.uk

Saturday 18 March 2017

Worrying Evidence Of People Accessing Their Pensions Without Financial Advice

Early signs that people are responding to their new pension freedoms rashly.

According to the Financial Conduct Authority, most of the people that accessed their pension pots in 2016 withdrew the whole amount in one go. 55% of 145,000 pension pot withdrawals in the third quarter of 2016 cashed their entire savings. Group communications director at the financial services advisers Just, Stephen Lowe highlights this as evidence of “a failing system”.

Most worrying to him and others is that the majority of those taking out their pensions are not seeking professional advice. 47% of those withdrawing all their pot used financial advisers. One promising sign is that this is up from the 37% in the last quarter of 2015. The fact that in some areas people seeking advice is trending upwards could be viewed as people starting to get to grips with their new freedoms. However, just 33% of annuity conversions involved professional advisers down from 42% from the last quarter of 2015.

Mr Lowe states that “We don’t know whether customers who have withdrawn their savings are receiving good value from the subsequent investments they have been making as a consequence of this one-time decision.”

What The Solution Will Look Like

The most important change that is needed is that individuals are informed before making decisions that will impact the rest of their life.

Head of policy at L.V., Philip Brown points to “the worryingly low number of people taking advice and exercising choice at retirement”. He calls for the industry to “support consumers and signpost them to advice so they can make informed decisions at such an important time in their lives”.

Mr Lowe added that “behavioural economics shows that defaults work, seeing these figures it is getting harder to justify why Pension Wise is not the default option for all those looking to access their pensions benefits.

Paul Hoskin MD at Hoskin Financial

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL

Friday 10 March 2017

Citizens Advice Highlight Lack Of Pension Provision For Multiple Job Holders

More than 100,000 British workers are not earning enough to qualify for auto enrolment pensions.

Workers in the U.K. qualify for auto enrolment pensions once they achieve earnings of £10,000 from a single job. It is the fact that multiple sources are needed to reach this trigger point that prevents many from benefiting from the law.

Citizens Advice found that almost 106,000 people fell into the category of earning too little from a single employer. The charity came to this conclusion after analysing figures from the Office of National Statistics’ Labour Force Survey.

Women Disproportionately Affected

72,000 of those affected are women. The reasons given for this include the idea that women disproportionately have to find jobs that fit around family commitments. Chief executive at Citizens Advice, Gillian Guy states that “many people – particularly women – work several part-time jobs, which helps them manage commitments like childcare or study.”

Auto enrolment into pension schemes began in 2012 in order to prevent a looming crisis of private under funding of old age expenses and on the whole are viewed as successful. Around 90% of those eligible have decided not to opt out meaning by 2018, 10 million people are projected to be saving in to a pension fund directly because of the measure.

Multiple job holders and the self-employed have not been provided for as of yet. The Government is aware of this and have announced a review of the scheme which will look into any perceived shortcomings.

Ms Guy calls on the Government to “seize the opportunity of this year’s auto-enrolment review and use it to pave the way for helping more people get on track with pension savings.”

Citizens Advice have also recently surveyed managers finding that of the over 1,100 questioned, only 18% cited auto enrolment responsibilities as a key concern going forward. Far more, 44% are most worried about hiring the right staff and 36% about retaining them.

Paul Hoskin MD at Hoskin Financial

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL

Wednesday 8 March 2017

YOUR WHOLE WORLD IN YOUR OWN HANDS


If I knew then what I know now, I’m pretty sure that there would have been an easier journey to the place that is now my reality.

Having said that, it is never too late to begin to adjust our perspective and mindset as a positive shift at any age is a shift in a brighter direction.

Life is precious and for those of you who are unsure why a raised awareness is a positive move, let me encourage you to view yourself as a tiny creation within your own hands. Strange, you may say. I see that. However, it is okay to nurture yourself and build yourself up one step at a time to be the person you want to be deep down. It’s nobody else’s business but yours. Your true “self” is for you to create from where you are now to where you want to be. The journey is infinite and with a purpose, vision and goal, you are in charge of your own destiny.

As the wonderful James Allen concluded in the chapter named “Serenity”.

“Tempest-tossed souls, wherever ye may be, under whatsoever conditions ye may live, know this: In the ocean of life the isles of Blessedness are smiling, and the sunny shore of your ideal awaits your coming. Keep your hand firmly upon the helm of thought. In the bark of your soul reclines the commanding Master; He does but sleep: wake Him. Self-control is strength; Right Thought is mastery; Calmness is power. Say unto your heart, “Peace, be still!”

On reading this through a few times, it is possible to understand that we are in charge of our own path and by keeping our sights firmly on the goal, whether it be who or what you want to be, you will create your own future because your future is already within you awaiting your awareness to be raised and to create the best version of you possible.

Never look back in disappointment. This will not serve you as it will only manifest negative thoughts to dwell upon. Your journey to where you are now has blessed you with wisdom, knowledge and experience that will benefit and support others. It has given you familiar emotions that are to be encouraged or eliminated relevant to their content. It is your choice to decipher these and to move forward with the most productive path.

Energy is all around us – we have the ability to become acquainted with it and intuitively discover the rewards that it can offer. Ask yourself “does this feeling serve me well?”

Create your new world.

http://absolutelifesystem.com/

Sunday 5 March 2017

Top Tips to Spot a Second Charge Customer

1. Interest only mortgage customers.
For some consumers, staying on their existing interest – only mortgage is the best option for them. However many believe that the only way to obtain further credit is if their current mortgage arrangement is switched to a repayment option. For many this will make their monthly repayments rise dramatically, making it unaffordable. A second charge mortgage will allow the customer to borrow additional money without interfering with their existing mortgage.

2. Lifetime tracker customers.
With interest rates at a historical low of 0.5% and speculation about a rate rise now common, some customers will want to move to a fixed rate. However, a fixed rate mortgage will almost always carry early redemption charges that can cost customers thousands of pounds in fees if they choose to opt out before the initial product term has ended. Plus some may find it difficult to remortgage to equivalent or lower rates. For these customers a second charge loan should be considered as it will sit behind the customers existing first charge mortgage, with minimal exit fees or changes to terms and conditions.

3. Customers who want to consolidate credit.
Many customers will owe money on more than one credit card or have several different credit agreements or loans in place.
This can make keeping track of them all very difficult and could lead to serious consequences if missed.
Consolidating debts can take the difficulty out of managing a client’s money. It has become increasingly difficult to source consolidation loans, particularly if over £30,000.00 on the high street, as these lenders prefer simpler cases.
Second charge loans not only allow the customer to consolidate debts over a longer term than an unsecured loan, but also give then the flexibility to have a shorter term than their first charge mortgage whilst reducing their monthly outgoings.

4. Self-certification mortgage customers
Self-certification mortgages, known for being popular with those who had irregular earnings, were banned in 2014 following the mortgage market review. However , nearly half of all mortgages taken out between 2007 and the beginning of 2010 were advanced on this basis , leaving many consumers as ‘mortgage prisoners’ trapped on very high interest rates and unable to borrow as lenders continue to tighten their lending criteria . These customers won’t be able to get any more funding on a self-certification based.

5. Self-employed customers
If a customer has become self-employed in the last couple of years, he or she is likely to have a mortgage application rejected due to lenders needing extensive proof of income. They may however be eligible for a second charge loan as lenders will take into account all income, including buy to let rental yield and foster care along with many other benefits.

6. Adverse Credit
Customers who have experienced difficulties with their finance and who may have historical credit problems.

For more help and advice please do noy hesitate to contact me.

Ian Chambers Hoskin Home Loans

Mobile: 07962 152776 Office: 01621 876030

Friday 3 March 2017

TRUSTING THE UNKNOWN

Many thoughts had preceded this surgery – Would I wake up? Would I be able to walk again? How would the children and my family deal with the changes? Would it hurt? How long would I be off work for? Could we afford to do this? Was there a right time?

So many questions – no answer could possibly be the right one because we literally had no idea whatsoever as we entered into the unknown.

It was a relief to fall into an induced sleep to be honest – the conscious mind finally stopped turning.

As time ticked by and Tony sat waiting for however long was required to straighten the curvature in my spine and reconstruct my right ribcage, Mr Shaw and his team worked intensely.

In a bizarre way, I had drawn the long straw as I was asleep and the time passed in an instant for me. However, Tony sat and sat and sat some more – almost eight hours passed before he was informed that I was being transferred to Intensive Care (ICU). Two hours longer than expected – I was blissfully unaware yet Tony was feeling every minute. I wonder what really went through his mind in those hours – I had been warned of the risk of not waking or not walking as the spinal column was worked on.

Waking up was gradual – I understand that it took around three hours to gain any sort of true sense from me and throughout it all there was Tony – he was just there doing what he does best. Making sure I was okay.

I don’t remember much but just relief that I had woken up and I daren’t move incase it hurt! I lay with the morphine pump in my hand and recall Tony saying, “I’m not going until I know you can press the button yourself”. That was hard work – I do know that much.

As I drifted in and out of consciousness everything seemed like a complete blur – I knew I was to have my own room and that was about it – this unknown business was so daunting but I was still coming back to reality that I really didn’t care about anything.

Apparently I was in ICU for overnight and into the following day – it was time to leave and I recall telling every member of staff who came my way just how much I loved my children and how great they are!

By pure chance, at the point of wheeling the bed from the ward, Tony had brought Lou and Fynn to visit – They still joke now about how highly medicated (ok – so maybe not so politely put!) I was and how embarrassing I was as in my drowsy state I had to let everyone know that THESE were my children – sorry kids!

You know what though – the only snippets of memories from waking up to being transferred to the ward room were just Tony and the children. That is all – What does that tell me now?

My little world means the WHOLE world to me.

http://absolutelifesystem.com

Sunday 26 February 2017

LETTING GO FOR ONCE


Thankfully, I had built up a quiet trust in Mr Shaw, my surgeon. He was a decade younger than me which to some may have been unnerving considering I was only forty-two and he literally was to have my life in his hands. However, his primary concern throughout the numerous consultations was to alter not only the physicality of my spine but also the misplaced perception that I had held of myself for thirty years. He really did comprehend the view that I held in my mind actually outweighed the disfigurement and pain that the Scoliosis held over me. He saw me as a whole person.

The day of the surgery loomed – Monday 23 January 2012 – my children were fourteen and ten and my step-son was just eleven – that unsettled me as this period in my life was going to effect them in many ways. Tony, my partner had been given absence of leave from his job for three months to be carer. Something that we still are truly grateful for.

I had never been one to let go and trust that a situation would work out – this time in our lives was not only about to hopefully improve my long-term health but unknowingly at that point would bring us untold lessons that would remain with us all. Everything happens for a reason, as they say.

Saying goodbye to Lou and Fynn was difficult. We had always been together apart from their time they had with their Dad – until that point I had always been available to them no matter what. I felt that I was abandoning them. Of course, that wasn’t the case but this had to happen. I cried many silent tears hoping that they would get through this, doubting that our bond would be enough. I irrationally questioned my capabilities as their Mum. It hurt so much it still brings tears to my eyes.

So, after a restless night and many a last phone call to family and friends wishing me well I was administered the pre-med to calm me. I wanted to scream and run away and get back to my babies. Scared is an understatement but to know life in a wheelchair was my destiny as the curvature increased the pressure on my lung. That was a good deterrent and a reason to stay.

The staff were amazing as I was wheeled in the bed down to theatre – Tony was by my side throughout. He really has never been a worrier but even now I could see and sense that he was. For once, I had to give in to this situation and allow these skilled and gentle souls do what they are trained to do. I felt like a lamb to the slaughter. I didn’t want to know what the operation entailed and it was the right move in hindsight – I just wanted to be okay and get home.

The theatre doors loomed in front of me and I felt myself drifting into a peaceful and relaxed sleep. It was a relief to know that after all these years someone was finally understanding and knew how to make it better and for once, there wasn’t any fight in me. It was time to let go of everything and trust.

Estate Planning Sorely Lacking For Many British People

An annual survey conducted by Canada Life has found many Brits poorly positioned to pass their wealth on.

There is worrying evidence that many people that own substantial estates are not getting the expert advice they need to manage money. Some are wilfully ignoring estate management and paying more tax than they necessarily have to. Currently only 27% of those with assets over £325,000 and who are aged over 45 have sought professional advice for planning ahead.

Passing money on after death is an area people in general have not prepared for. 27% of wealthy individuals have not even written a will. Just 1 in 5 people have thought ahead enough to gift money whilst still alive. The inheritance tax that will be imposed on those who receive the money will be far higher than if they had prepared and sought proper advice.

There is concern over the lack of awareness of the importance of professional financial advice when it comes to estate planning. Worrying responses were received in the survey such as 46% of those questioned saying they would never take out life insurance.

Misconceptions Preventing People From Seeking Advice

After life insurance the second most popular method of passing on money was to set up a fund. However, 40% said they did not intend to utilise them themselves. A significant number (19%) gave the reason that doing so seemed too time consuming and difficult. In fact the process is simple and highly worthwhile and with so many unaware of this there have been those that question the financial literacy of the population.

The survey indicates that seeking professional advice would save a great number of people from unnecessary payments of inheritance tax. Although it is an individual’s right to decide what they do with their finances the current situation is set to see the beneficiaries pay unneeded charges.

Debbie Day.

Mobile : 07704 311021 Felixstowe Office : 01394 775711

deb.day@hoskinfinancial.co.uk www.debbiedayifa.co.uk

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL

Sunday 19 February 2017

TRUSTING THE UNKNOWN

Many thoughts had preceded this surgery – Would I wake up? Would I be able to walk again? How would the children and my family deal with the changes? Would it hurt? How long would I be off work for? Could we afford to do this? Was there a right time?

So many questions – no answer could possibly be the right one because we literally had no idea whatsoever as we entered into the unknown.

It was a relief to fall into an induced sleep to be honest – the conscious mind finally stopped turning.

As time ticked by and Tony sat waiting for however long was required to straighten the curvature in my spine and reconstruct my right ribcage, Mr Shaw and his team worked intensely.

In a bizarre way, I had drawn the long straw as I was asleep and the time passed in an instant for me. However, Tony sat and sat and sat some more – almost eight hours passed before he was informed that I was being transferred to Intensive Care (ICU). Two hours longer than expected – I was blissfully unaware yet Tony was feeling every minute. I wonder what really went through his mind in those hours – I had been warned of the risk of not waking or not walking as the spinal column was worked on.

Waking up was gradual – I understand that it took around three hours to gain any sort of true sense from me and throughout it all there was Tony – he was just there doing what he does best. Making sure I was okay.

I don’t remember much but just relief that I had woken up and I daren’t move incase it hurt! I lay with the morphine pump in my hand and recall Tony saying, “I’m not going until I know you can press the button yourself”. That was hard work – I do know that much.

As I drifted in and out of consciousness everything seemed like a complete blur – I knew I was to have my own room and that was about it – this unknown business was so daunting but I was still coming back to reality that I really didn’t care about anything.

Apparently I was in ICU for overnight and into the following day – it was time to leave and I recall telling every member of staff who came my way just how much I loved my children and how great they are!

By pure chance, at the point of wheeling the bed from the ward, Tony had brought Lou and Fynn to visit – They still joke now about how highly medicated (ok – so maybe not so politely put!) I was and how embarrassing I was as in my drowsy state I had to let everyone know that THESE were my children – sorry kids!

You know what though – the only snippets of memories from waking up to being transferred to the ward room were just Tony and the children. That is all – What does that tell me now?

My little world means the WHOLE world to me.

Top Tips to Spot a Second Charge Customer

Top Tips to Spot a Second Charge Customer.

1. Interest only mortgage customers.

For some consumers, staying on their existing interest – only mortgage is the best option for them. However many believe that the only way to obtain further credit is if their current mortgage arrangement is switched to a repayment option. For many this will make their monthly repayments rise dramatically, making it unaffordable. A second charge mortgage will allow the customer to borrow additional money without interfering with their existing mortgage.

2. Lifetime tracker customers.

With interest rates at a historical low of 0.5% and speculation about a rate rise now common, some customers will want to move to a fixed rate. However, a fixed rate mortgage will almost always carry early redemption charges that can cost customers thousands of pounds in fees if they choose to opt out before the initial product term has ended. Plus some may find it difficult to remortgage to equivalent or lower rates. For these customers a second charge loan should be considered as it will sit behind the customers existing first charge mortgage, with minimal exit fees or changes to terms and conditions.

3. Customers who want to consolidate credit.

Many customers will owe money on more than one credit card or have several different credit agreements or loans in place.

This can make keeping track of them all very difficult and could lead to serious consequences if missed.

Consolidating debts can take the difficulty out of managing a client’s money. It has become increasingly difficult to source consolidation loans, particularly if over £30,000.00 on the high street, as these lenders prefer simpler cases.

Second charge loans not only allow the customer to consolidate debts over a longer term than an unsecured loan, but also give then the flexibility to have a shorter term than their first charge mortgage whilst reducing their monthly outgoings.

4. Self-certification mortgage customers

Self-certification mortgages, known for being popular with those who had irregular earnings, were banned in 2014 following the mortgage market review. However , nearly half of all mortgages taken out between 2007 and the beginning of 2010 were advanced on this basis , leaving many consumers as ‘mortgage prisoners’ trapped on very high interest rates and unable to borrow as lenders continue to tighten their lending criteria . These customers won’t be able to get any more funding on a self-certification based.

5. Self-employed customers

If a customer has become self-employed in the last couple of years, he or she is likely to have a mortgage application rejected due to lenders needing extensive proof of income. They may however be eligible for a second charge loan as lenders will take into account all income, including buy to let rental yield and foster care along with many other benefits.

6. Adverse Credit

Customers who have experienced difficulties with their finance and who may have historical credit problems.

For more help and advice please do noy hesitate to contact me.

Ian Chambers Hoskin Home Loans
Mobile: 07962 152776 Office: 01621 876030

Saturday 11 February 2017

Inflation Starting To Devalue Cash Savings

Inflation Starting To Devalue Cash Savings

As prices rise globally, the value of cash is starting to fall.

Those who hold cash savings are being warned that relative to the goods they can buy, their money is becoming worth less.

Customers are starting to feel the effects of global inflation through what they buy on the high street. At present, the U.K.’s inflation rate stands at 1.2% but it is predicted to rise to 2.4% next year.

Savers have already been hit hard by the tough environment of extremely low interest rates. Based off 3-month sterling Libor rates, £100,000 deposited into a bank in 2007 would have seen an extra £6,000 generated. The same scenario in 2015 would see just £575 generated. This figure has not yet even accounted for inflation lowering the real return value.

Those With Cash Urged To Invest In Equities

In an environment of inflation, equities bring about the best returns. Share prices as well as corporate revenues and earnings grow with inflation rather than being damaged by it.

This becomes clear when we look at inflation-adjusted figures showing the return on investment. Over the last 118 years, £1 saved in the form of cash would have brought in £3. £1 invested in Gilts would have earned twice this amount, £6. However, if the money had been placed in equities, namely the F.T.S.E. 100, the return would be a far greater £340.

The option advised for the highest possible returns is clearly equities. The obvious caveat is the increased risk. Many people are put off by the fact that they could actually lose money but the data suggests the risks of volatility are more short term. History has shown that over longer periods of time, investing in stocks has provided far and away the best returns.

Debbie Day.

Mobile : 07704 311021   Felixstowe Office : 01394 775711

deb.day@hoskinfinancial.co.uk  www.debbiedayifa.co.uk

THIS BLOG PROVIDES INFORMATION, IT IS NOT ADVICE. ANY OPINIONS ARE GIVEN IN GOOD FAITH AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. OPINIONS AND INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN THIS EMAIL DO NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE. (IF YOU REQUIRE PERSONAL ADVICE BASED ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT HOSKIN FINANCIAL


LISTEN TO YOUR HEART


Listen to your heart.

With every beat of your heart, life is being pumped through you.

If we truly think about that for a moment, how incredible is it that that pure beat and rhythm is the on/off switch to us being here or not.

So, with that in mind I would like to share with you how I came to be the person that I am now. I have had many experiences over the years that, in hindsight, I wish I had had the knowledge, confidence and ability to deal with them differently however it is what it is.

It wasn’t a case of reinventing myself just like that. It was a decision from a huge life change that caused an opportunity to re-evaluate my wants in life.

What was my purpose? Traditionally, we are all programmed to study, gain our grades, perhaps go to college and then off we go to work. I wanted to break my own mould. I had done so prior to this realisation by becoming self-employed and owning a Driving School coaching pupils to become qualified drivers. I gained total satisfaction from this role but the most beneficial aspect was that it was clear, during the eleven years, how it became instinctive to sense what the pupil was feeling.

My original tutor, Fred, often commented about being “at one” with the car and the pupil. Over time, through experience I understood what that meant. The new me chooses to see this as intuitively sensing the energy shifts within the confined space of the vehicle. It’s fascinating and created an ability to avoid several dangerous situations and sense the pupil’s reactions before they even realised the energy that was being released.

It was suggested on a number of occasions by various people that I should become a Coach of a certain description, yet to be found, that would resonate with me – I had no understanding whatsoever of that concept. It scared me. How could I possibly guide others on their life choices when mine could have been more carefully plotted? It was hard to think that the testing and unsettled waters that was my past could actually benefit others – little did I know it was the moving forward that would serve others.

The crunch came after life-changing surgery. Having lived with Idiopathic Scoliosis since the age of twelve and many years of despising my physical being. Unnecessary throw away comments had struck me to the core regarding the abnormal shape of my back and ribcage and the pain had become unbearable. After much research and fear filled appointments, I chose to opt for Spinal Fusion and Costoplasty despite being told several years before that I was too old – I was only forty-two. Time had been wasted and I wasn’t prepared to lose any more. If this procedure did not take place, I would be guaranteed a future in a wheelchair as the curvature continued to worsen and effect normal breathing as it added pressure to a lung at a steady rate.

My main concern was how my family would cope. My partner was so supportive despite the risks as metal rods were to be screwed and tweaked to straighten the spine plus ribcage reconstruction to bring a balance to a twisted torso. This procedure is on a par with open-heart surgery.

Signing the permission form was the most unnerving action I have ever taken. To know I may not walk again or even wake up was unnerving. I had to follow my heart on this one. My life was now in the hands of the Surgeon…
http://absolutelifesystem.com