Why Choose Us?

When you choose Financial Care Solutions you work directly with me, Catriona Lumiste, a fully independent Financial Adviser with over 14 years’ experience supporting individuals and families through life’s key transitions.  I own my business, and am not tied to any bank, investment company or large national firm, which means all recommendations are made solely in your best interests. 

I understand that financial decisions can feel overwhelming, especially during times of change or vulnerability.  That’s why I take the time to listen, and offer advice that is not only technically robust, but also thoughtful, clear, and tailored to you.

I have completed the Certificate in Consumer Vulnerability in Later Life and The STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Vulnerable Clients and regularly work with clients who are navigating difficult or sensitive circumstances.  I am also committed to the Financial Vulnerability Taskforce Charter, an independent initiative that promotes greater awareness, good practice and ethical standards when supporting those in vulnerable situations.

As a fully accredited member of the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA), audited and endorsed by the Government-backed Financial Skills Partnership, I specialise in retirement planning, care funding and estate preservation.   I also collaborate with legal and care professionals to ensure clients receive well-rounded, joined up advice when it matters most.

I’m proud to be a member of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investments I and follow strict codes of conduct to ensure high standards of integrity and professionalism. 

Qualifications, Accreditations & Training

  • STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Vulnerable Clients
  • SOLLA Accredited Later Life Adviser Accreditation
  • SOLLA Retirement Advice Standard
  • SOLLA Care Standard
  • SOLLA Later Life Lending Standard
  • STEP Certificate for Financial Services, Trusts and Estate Planning
  • Mental Health First Aider (Mental Health First Aid England)
  • AF1 Personal Tax and Trust Planning (CII)
  • AF6 Senior Management and Supervision (CII)
  • Diploma in Financial Planning (CII)
  • ER1 Equity Release (CII)
  • CF8 Care Fees Planning (CII)
  • R08 Pensions Update (CII)
  • Certificate in Consumer Vulnerability in Later Life
  • Advanced Certificate in Compliance (ICA)
  • Certificate in Financial Planning (CII)
  • CeMAP Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (IFS)
  • CeRGI Certificate in Regulated General Insurance (IFS)
  • Diploma in Insurance (CII)

Whether you choose to act on one part of my advice, or all of it, I’ll be by your side, offering long-term support and helping you move forward with clarity, confidence and reassurance.

Outside of work, I serve as a Volunteer Board Member at my local Community Hub, raising funds and improving services for older people in my community.   I’m married with two daughters, and value the simple joys of family, friends, fresh air, running and being part of a supportive local neighbourhood.

Book an Appointment

For clients that do not require formal advice but need some time to discuss a situation or receive some guidance I offer my time via a 30-minute call for £75 or a 60-minute call for £175.

The cost of the call is payable at the time of booking.  Many clients have said these calls are useful to have time to discuss their situations and be guided to other services or other professionals for legal advice or care provision because not all clients need formal financial advice but they appreciate a professional to discuss their situation with.

I really love my work and I am passionate about individuals receiving good quality financial planning advice and appreciate that it can be daunting going through the maze of options for retirement, later life considerations or planning for long term care needs particularly when so much emotion and decision making is involved.

I have a strong commitment to charity and community work.  

I am married with two girls and in my spare time I like to run.

Gemma

Gemma has worked in financial services since 1998, across a wide range of roles including PA, Paraplanning, Office Management and Administration. She has wide experience supporting advice firms with tasks such as data gathering, liaising with providers, processing letters of authority, and keeping systems and processes running smoothly.

She is methodical, organised and always open to learning new things.  Gemma holds Financial
Planning Certificates 1 & 2.

Outside of work she enjoys taking part in showjumping competitions around the UK and spending time with her husband and their two spaniels.