The City-based adviser platform Transact says all its staff have moved to home working and it has asked users for patience as it deals with a high volume of calls.

The company says the Coronavirus outbreak has placed “unprecedented challenges” on operations and some tasks may take longer than expected.

Because of a surge in phone calls it has issued the following advice to users, many of them Financial Planners:

•Use online functionality, where possible.

•Send secure email rather than phone.

•Place deposits electronically using BACs.

•Supply any missing email addresses and phone numbers for your clients.

•Switch off paper and take the strain off the postal systems.

The company said: “We remain here to service you and your clients – some things may just take a little longer than usual. We are continuing to review and implement guidance as it is received from the government. All of our staff are now working from home.”

The company says staff are adapting well to the new working arrangements.

In terms of financial strength the company says that parent Integrafin Holdings is financially sound and the company holds over £40m in liquid capital over and above statutory requirements.

Staff at many platforms and other financial providers have moved temporarily to home working in line with government advice, with some also operating skeleton staff levels in some offices on a rotation basis.