4 Responses

1. A few thoughts
   Off the top of my head:

   1. The importance of developing some interest/activity NOW which will give their lives structure when they no longer have the “get-up-go-to-work-go-home-go-to-bed” routine to cling to

   2. Dealing with government bureaucracy, especially: What benefits are they entitled to? How do they find out about changes in their entitlements? What happens to their State pension if they want to do part-time or voluntary work, etc?
   (There are lots of explanatory booklets no one talks about, but most gov’t offices are pretty responsive, in my experience, if you ask for help.)

   3. Do they have private pension plans? If so, what’s the best way to go about buying an annuity? Does it make sense to take any part of the pension sum in cash?
   Can you recommend an effective and reliable independent financial advisor?
   (You may be able to negotiate some kind of discount if a single advisor deals with all retirees.)

   4. What can they do to help themselves if they get into financial difficulties? Like how good a deal is it to sign away part of the value of your property to some assurance company in return for a lump sum now?

   5. Unpleasant for some, but VERY important – how to make out a will that anticipates all contingencies and ensures that your property goes where you meant it to go.

   6. Even more unpleasant, but also important for those left behind – making funeral arrangements, including making adequate financial provisions.

   Andy B.

2. Pre retirement
   I agree with Andrew.I would reinforce his first suggestion by signposting the vast range of projects and organisations the individuals can engage with.I run active citizenship weekends for senior citizens every month in London,Liverpool,Leeds and Manchester. The oranisations you can signpost include
   The Experience Corps
   Reach
   Better Govt for Older People
   as well as Help the Aged and AgeConcern

   I would also focus on a new module linked to equality and diversity.Focus on the NEW AGE for senior citizens brought about by demographic timebomb and skills shortages. Use B and Q as models.there are others. Stress flexibility about people moving OUT and then back INTO the labour market. Focus on Euro Directive for 2006 on age discrimination etc. With Andrew’s ideas all this should make for a well rounded package

   William

3. Choice literature
   Hi

   We’re currently reviewing material from a company called Choice. They provide a folder full of all the information mentioned below, and from what i’ve seen so far it looks really user friendly.
   I would be interested to hear from anyone that has used this company and their information, and how successful this has been.
   Kirsten

4. Retirement preparation seminars
   I have run these course for several years for NHS staff. It lasts 3 days and covers preparing for change; advice on a range of financial matters; the use of time; maintaining relationships; keeping healthy. I cover budgeting in retirement but for the other financial aspects I invite external speakers who have the specialist qualifications, knowledge and experience required. These include: financial advisors (tied and independent); Pensions Services (State & Company); Inland Revenue; and a solicitor (for Wills, enduring power of attorney; discretionary trusts et cetera).

   They are always evaluated very positively. Typical feedback is: “No-one should retire without attending a course like this.”