Fee-only financial planning (one-off comprehensive plan, £500-1500) often produces value most do-it-yourself adults miss. Particularly useful at life transitions (marriage, children, divorce, inheritance, approaching retirement).
What to expect
Two to three meetings. Comprehensive review of income, expenses, savings, pensions, investments, tax situation. Specific recommendations for optimisation. Written plan you can implement or take to other advisors.
How to find a good one
Fee-only (no commission on products they recommend). CFP (Chartered Financial Planner) credential. UK directories: Unbiased, Vouched For. Avoid anyone selling specific investment products on commission.
Most adults benefit from one comprehensive plan in their 30s, another in their 50s, another in retirement planning. Each often pays for itself many times over in optimisations identified.