Rob Smith shares his views on the importance of good communication and using less jargon.

As an early adapter of the Education Champion scheme and having recently connected with a local school to take part in the initiative, I believe that this type of programme can have far-reaching positive effects not just on those individuals who take part, but on the society they enter armed with the proper tools to elevate their standing in the wider financial world. 

With the ISA allowance now at £20,000, when an investment matures or you receive an inheritance, a lump sum from a pension, or a generous redundancy payment over and this allowance, you may need to consider investing into funds or other investments on a direct basis.

Government income from inheritance tax has been steadily rising. If you don't want the Exchequer to be a major – or even the largest – beneficiary of your estate, then the sooner you begin planning, the better.