Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Financial Services in Cheadle
Established in 1826, Shepherds Friendly has built a legacy of trust and fairness in financial services. As a member-owned mutual society, we prioritise our clients' financial security through transparent, accessible products. Our expertise spans investment solutions, life insurance, and income protection, supported by a team with decades of industry experience. We hold authorisation from the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority, ensuring compliance with the highest standards. Our commitment to responsible investing and customer-centric service has earned us a 4.61 average rating across independent platforms. With over 200 years of market knowledge, we deliver tailored financial solutions while maintaining a focus on long-term member benefits. Our innovative approach combines traditional values with modern digital tools, including mobile app management and automated online applications. Recognised with a 5-star Defaqto rating, we continuously enhance our offerings through partnerships like Nuffield Health's wellness services. As an FSCS-protected provider, we guarantee security for investments up to 125,000 in fixed-rate bonds. Our member-driven structure ensures profits are reinvested or returned directly to policyholders.
Services
Investment ISA
Junior ISA
Over 50s Life Insurance
Income Protection Insurance
Fixed Rate Bonds
Child Savings Plans
Tax-Free Investments
Funeral Expense Cover
Financial Planning
Mutual Society Benefits
Highlights and features
- 200 years of financial services expertise since 1826
- Member-owned structure returning profits directly to policyholders
- 5-star Defaqto rated insurance products
- FSCS protection for investments up to 125,000
- No medical questions for Over 50s Life Insurance applications
Associations and certifications
- Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA)
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
- Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)
What people say
Quick setup process
Very good service
Easy and quick
Great app functionality
Happy with service
Services
Investment ISA
Our Investment ISA offers medium to low-risk growth through a diversified portfolio managed by Royal London Asset Management. Quarterly bonuses aim to smooth market fluctuations while maintaining 1.5% annual management charges. Designed for minimum 5-year commitments, it provides tax-free returns with capital at risk. The fund combines equities, bonds, and property investments to balance growth potential with stability.
Over 50s Life Insurance
This guaranteed acceptance policy provides fixed lump sums from age 50-80 without medical questions. Premiums start at 10/month with optional funeral benefit partnerships. Coverage continues until age 90 with guaranteed rates. The plan includes National Bereavement Service access and potential 250 funeral discounts through Co-op Funeralcare partnerships.
Income Protection
Replacing up to 70% of income during work incapacity, this policy offers 1-2 year benefit periods with 1-week minimum waiting periods. Enhanced benefits include 24/7 virtual GP access and 20% gym discounts. Claims processed within 48 hours with 96% 2024 approval rate. Premiums start at 5/month with guaranteed rates unaffected by health changes.
Junior ISA
Tax-free savings plans for children up to 9,000/year, maturing at age 18. Investments in With-Profits funds aim for quarterly bonuses since 2011. Parents control until 16, with children managing from 16. Funds guarantee minimum returns at maturity, with market value adjustments applying for early withdrawals.
Fixed Rate Bonds
Five-year fixed-term deposits from 1,000 to 125,000 with 3.41% AER. FSCS-protected, these bonds guarantee returns regardless of market conditions. Minimum age 18 applies with penalties for early withdrawal except in exceptional circumstances. Ideal for risk-averse savers seeking predictable growth.
Questions
What investment options does Shepherds Friendly offer?
We provide Investment ISAs, Junior ISAs, and Fixed Rate Bonds with risk profiles ranging from medium to low. All investments are professionally managed with quarterly performance reviews.
How do income protection claims work?
Submit claims online with medical documentation. Our specialist team processes 96% of claims within five working days, with payments typically starting within 48 hours of approval.
Can I access my savings before maturity?
Fixed Rate Bonds have no early withdrawals except in exceptional circumstances. Investment ISAs allow withdrawals but may affect long-term growth potential.
What makes you different from other providers?
As a member-owned mutual, we return 100% of profits to policyholders. Our 200-year history, 5-star Defaqto ratings, and FSCS protection distinguish our service quality.
How are investment returns calculated?
Returns combine quarterly bonuses with market performance. While not guaranteed, our With-Profits funds have paid consistent bonuses since 2008 through diversified asset management.
What insurance coverage options exist?
We offer life insurance for ages 50-80, income protection up to age 70, and child savings plans. All policies include additional benefits like funeral discounts or health partnerships.
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Reviews (3)
Karl Capewell
Mar 06, 2024
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I recently had a conversation with a team member who was incredibly helpful. With an upcoming back operation, I was extremely anxious, especially considering I'm self-employed and facing potential loss of income during recovery. Thankfully, they initiated the process over the phone, which made it much more accessible for me to begin. I'm highly satisfied with the staff and their support throughout the entire process.
I'll definitely recommend them to anyone considering income protection insurance. Their assistance has alleviated a significant amount of stress and pressure, so many thanks to everyone at Shepherds Friendly.
I'll definitely recommend them to anyone considering income protection insurance. Their assistance has alleviated a significant amount of stress and pressure, so many thanks to everyone at Shepherds Friendly.
John George
Feb 22, 2017
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Very simple to set up, no complicated questions or unnecessary hassle. Easy to understand. Good communication from Shepherds Friendly. Quick responses. Would recommend.
Victoria Jane
Feb 22, 2017
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Shepherd's staff very pleasant and helpful. Online application for Shepherds Young Saver Plan streamlined and straightforward.