Two in five British women (37%) have never reviewed their pension forecast, according to new research.

This compares to 32% of men, according to the research from Killik & Co.

Low financial engagement also saw less Britons consulting financial advisers when planning for retirement.

Half of those surveyed had never talked to an adviser about retirement - rising to 58% of over-55s. This is especially true for those on lower incomes: 58% of those earning £15,000 or less have never sought advice, compared to just 29% of those on higher incomes of £100,000 or more.

There was also a notable gender split when it came to wills. According to the research, 39% of men have never updated a will, compared to 52% of women.

The results also reveal a stark difference in attitudes between higher earners and lower earners. Over half (56%) of those on £15,000 or less had never updated their will, vs just 30% of those earning £100,000 or more.

William Stevens, head of Financial Planning and partner at Killik & Co, said: “Whether you're just starting in your career or approaching retirement, it's essential to have a clear plan in place and an understanding of roughly what to expect. Everyone should be regularly reviewing things like your pensions, any investments you hold, and cash savings to ensure they are still working for you and fulfilling your needs.”

“Likewise, taking proactive steps and planning toward inheritance and legacy planning to ensure hard-earned assets are preserved and passed on according to your wishes is essential. For those with larger estates who might be concerned about inheritance tax, planning early is even more important.”

• Censuswide surveyed 3,215 UK consumers aged 18 or over, including 2,003 parents, between 28 June and 2 July.