With less than a year to go before the RDR changes take effect, the IFP is expecting a very busy year in 2012.

Some IFP members are already submitting their qualifications and gap fill details for verification in order to obtain their Statements of Professional Standing. Nick Cann, IFP chief executive, recommends that members take action now to make sure they are RDR compliant in good time.

Members will not face any additional charge for the issue of SPSs, which will be provided at the member’s annual renewal date. In addition, more accredited CPD for gap fill will be generated and made available to IFP members to support their development needs.

The IFP will also be working hard to raise awareness of the nature and benefits of a comprehensive Financial Planning service to financial advisers as well as to consumers.

A new Financial Planning training programme is planned, helping practitioners to develop as Financial Planners. Financial Planning Week will take place in November, and a new programme of IFP events has been designed specifically for the needs of Financial Planning communities.