Chris & Angela’s story
Chris is 65 and retired five years ago. He was previously an HR Director, working at a number of Universities, Utility companies and Central Government. Angela was a Science teacher, and retired at the same time as Chris. They have three grown-up children, two of whom live abroad, and three grandchildren.
Why did Chris and Angela choose to work with Blue Ocean?
Chris and Angela’s impending retirement was actually what prompted them to take financial advice. As they both have final salary pensions, they each received lump sums of money at retirement, along with a guaranteed income for the rest of their lives.
They live in a modest house without a mortgage, so whilst they don’t need to secure any further income, they still want to make sure that their investments and savings will continue to grow and be available for one-off purchases, such as replacing the windows in their home.
How has Blue Ocean helped?
Blue Ocean has advised Chris and Angela on how to invest their money in ways which are tax efficient and most likely to grow (in line with the amount of risk they are willing to take). They are kept up-to-date with an annual meeting, but also have 24-hour access to their investments, so they can see how they are performing.
Angela’s mother is also a client of Blue Ocean. As the Power of Attorney for her mother, the meetings are also an opportunity for Angela to review her mother’s finances.
How have Chris and Angela benefited?
Chris and Angela are now much more relaxed about where their money is. They are also more confident about investing; previously, they had relied on low-risk investments such as bonds which meant that they couldn’t always access their money when they needed it.
They can now access their money when necessary, for example, to contribute to their children’s weddings. It’s important to Chris and Angela that they can pass on their wealth now, so that they can see their children and grandchildren benefit from it.
They enjoy travelling and will soon be going on a cruise to New York. For them, they believe that the best time to travel is as soon as you retire, as you never know if or when your health will fail.
They are concerned about the cost of care as they approach later life, so it is really important to them that their investments are protected, in case they are needed to pay for their care in the future.
Chris says: “The best thing about Blue Ocean is that it’s a small team of fully qualified financial advisers who provide a really personal service. Whenever we call the office, we always speak to a person and always get a call back from John. We like the fact that John is realistic; he’ll challenge us if he thinks we’re taking too much of a risk and only ever gives us advice that he himself would take.”
Testimonials
Working with Blue Ocean has enabled myself and my wife to invest our pension savings with the confidence that they are being managed by a professional team of qualified financial advisers. They have been very supportive and responsive when we've requested a detailed analysis of our investment performance and the outcome has been positive in terms of the expected returns. I have recommended family and friends to Blue Ocean and they have been equally very satisfied with the service.
Glen Ridout
Kent
A client since 2011
We would have no problem whatsoever in recommending the services of Blue Ocean for sound financial appreciation and advice, all handled in a friendly, convivial and concerned manner. Blue Ocean are always looking at how they can go that extra mile for their clients. This is a rare positive commodity in any business environment in today's world. The financial advice is always considered and simply explained in terms of what if and if you invested here etc. There is no pressure put on me to invest in high-risk return possibilities and at all stages the advice given is tailored to the perceived situation of their clients.
Barry William Ednie
Tonbridge, Kent
A client since 2013
Over the past 18 years, I have received very reassuring advice on my investments and always been treated in a friendly but professional manner.
Jacqueline Prosser
Surrey
A client since 2001
I have known John for over 20 years and have always been satisfied with his integrity, knowledge and reliability. I recommend him to business and family contacts without reserve.
Paul Richardson
Surrey
A client since 2002
Bespoke service... friendly, helpful staff.
Jane Stevens
Dartford, Kent
A client since 2017
Blue Ocean resolved a difficult situation in a very satisfactory way. The whole staff are extremely friendly and helpful and it was very cost-effective.
Richard Mersh
Kent
A client since 2017
Since we have used John and the team over the years our investments have gone from strength to strength. We’re very happy with the work they have done for us. I am now in a position to retire with no money worries.
Keith Yeates
Kent
A client since 2008
Honest, well versed, ‘personal touch’ business out to make sure everyone has satisfaction.
John Townsend
Hearn Bay, Kent
A client since 2017
I have received honest advice in a relaxed, friendly environment with my personal circumstances paramount.
Janice Hill
Kent
A client since 2009
I love Blue Ocean Hartley! So very helpful and fantastic staff.
Christine Bryant
Dartford, Kent
A client since 2009
Blue Ocean has always given me the help and advice that I feel protects my family’s investments. Not only have we used Blue Ocean for more than 20 years, but the team have always made us feel welcome. Always at the end of the phone for any advice we may need. Many thanks!
Russell Paul David
Rochester, Kent
A client since 2001
I have been advised by Blue Ocean for the past 21 years, and have always found their service sound, helpful and supportive.
Louise Bober
Kent
A client since 1999
Having the benefits of sound financial advice from Blue Ocean for over 20 years, I would recommend them without hesitation.
Andrew Martin
Medway, Kent
A client since 1999
We have used John Doyle and Blue Ocean for over 20 years as our financial adviser for everything from mortgages, pensions, income protection, trusts and investments. His advice has always been realistic, reliable and no-nonsense. He has always understood our requirements and has advised accordingly.
Michaela Franklin
Kent
A client since 1999
I find them very easy to deal with. Extremely knowledgeable and with no pressure.
George Howell
Bexleyheath
A client since 2016
I moved my investments to Blue Ocean in 2014. The advice I have received has been more professional and my investments have performed better. The staff are polite and always quick to respond to queries.
Lee Menzies
East Sussex
A client since 2014
Having been a client of Blue Ocean for the past 3-4 years, I can honestly say there is nobody I trust more with regards to my financial future than John and the team. Too good to be true? Not with Blue Ocean!
Liam Ryan
Essex
A client since 2016
Very good, friendly advice from a good team.
Stephen Williams
Kent
A client since 2010
Knowledgeable, approachable and always happy to discuss my issues.
Michael Southall
London
A client since 2018
Professional and reactive to any questions regarding your investment.
Michael Gould
Kent
A client since 2011
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