About 80 Paraplanners are attending the fourth national Paraplanners' Powwow 'unconference' today despite suggestions it could be the last.

Among the guest speakers at the event is the FCA’s Rory Percival, who announced recently he was leaving the regulator to become a consultant.

Paraplanners are again wearing warpaint - a tradition of the event - and having topical debates and presentations inside teepees in the Northamptonshire countryside. The aim of the Powwows is to allow planners to gather in a fun, unconventional space to share learning, debate Paraplanning issues and hear from leading experts.

The event’s long term future is in doubt, however, with founder and organiser Richard Allum planning to step down but Paraplanners will be able to debate this year whether it will continue.

You can follow the event and see pictures and updates by viewing the Twitter timelines below. Also check back regularly at Financial Planning Today for updates on the event and follow ups.

Delegates have expressed some disappointment that the event could be the last.

Leading Paraplanner Joanna Hague, who is also a Financial Planning Today columnist, said today: "I think the Paraplanner Powwow has probably been pivotal for Paraplanning but it's not only useful and good fun, it has given you a mindset that learning from your peers doesn't have to be done in front of a speaker. You don't just have to sit and listen to what's being said, you can have an opinion and ask questions."

She said the way she interacts and approaches conferences had been totally changed by the positive Powwow experience.

She added: "It has changed my view of professional events. I think paraplanners now have more of a reputation for speaking out for themselves in financial services circles and they didn't do that before. They now say that we've got a voice and we can join in. I think it will be a big shame if they don't continue but at the same time I don't underestimate how much time goes into organising it and I don't envy that job."

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