Financial Planning Week, now in its fourth year, runs during 21-27 November and is aimed at highlighting the importance of planning and improving financial ‘fitness’.

Firms, especially IFP Accredited Financial Planning Firms, are being encouraged to promote Financial Planning and its benefits to consumers.

At a launch meeting, hosted by Seven Investment Management, Jeff Prestridge, editor of personal finance at the Mail on Sunday, said firms should not be afraid to sell themselves and their services.

He said: “Journalists are not mind-readers, if you have something to tell then you have to tell those stories to journalists.

“Approach your clients and see if they would like to be featured, it’s up to you to promote the virtues of Financial Planning.”

He spoke about firms providing case studies and said even stories where clients were starting their Financial Planning from scratch, rather than with large portfolios, were interesting to readers.

Mr Prestridge’s comments were supported by IFP staff.

Chief executive Nick Cann said: “Be specific and engaging, think about what do people want to read and think through your message. It’s up to Financial Planners to show consumers there is a difference between Financial Planning and that of other financial services companies.

“Financial Planning Week is the highlight of what we are doing but it should be carried out throughout the whole year.”

Communications director Sue Whitbread said: “A lot of Financial Planners are nervous about the media but a successful Financial Planning case where they have made a real difference to someone’s life is the best news to highlight Financial Planning in the media.”

She said firms could contact her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if they wanted to discuss any ideas or wanted more information.