Bump in the road: the value of advice when life doesn’t go to plan

We all like to think we’ve got life under control. A stable job, a roof over our head, savings for the future — or at least a plan to get there.

But then something happens. A job loss. A health diagnosis. A bereavement. A family change. A decision you didn’t expect to make.

These “bumps in the road” can throw your thinking off course. And when they do, your finances often become harder to manage because everything suddenly feels more complicated, more urgent, or more uncertain.

That’s where financial advice can make all the difference.

When life doesn’t go to plan, you need a steady, trusted hand. Someone who can help you understand your options, make calm decisions, and feel in control again.

Support when you need it most

There’s a common myth that financial advice is only for the wealthy, or only for “big” decisions like investing or buying a home. But the truth is, advice is most valuable whenever you feel vulnerable.

The FCA defines vulnerability as anything that makes someone more susceptible to harm when making financial decisions. That includes:

·        Health changes — physical or mental

·        Life events — like a new baby, divorce, bereavement, or redundancy

·        Financial resilience — low savings, irregular income, or debt pressure

·        Capability challenges — low confidence, digital exclusion, or cognitive decline

You might not use the word “vulnerable” to describe yourself, but if you’ve ever felt out of your depth with money, overwhelmed by communications and paperwork, or anxious about what to do next, then you’ve been there.

A good adviser will:

·        Meet you where you are — not where they expect you to be

·        Help you process financial choices at your own pace

·        Offer reassurance when you feel unsure or overwhelmed

·        Support you without judgement, jargon, or pressure

They’ll make sure you don’t have to navigate financial decisions alone. When the outcomes you want feel out of reach – they'll shorten the gap.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership 25/06/2025