Code of Ethics

Blackwood Financial Planning Ltd

Effective Date: 21/01/2026
Last Reviewed: 21/01/2026

 

1. Introduction

Blackwood Financial Planning Ltd (“the Firm”, “we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in all aspects of our business.

This Code of Ethics sets out the principles and standards that guide our behaviour and decision-making. It reflects our obligations as an FCA-authorised firm and our commitment to acting in the best interests of our clients at all times.

This Code applies to all directors, employees, advisers, consultants, contractors, and anyone acting on behalf of the Firm.

 

2. Regulatory and Professional Standards

We operate in accordance with:

• The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Principles for Businesses
• The FCA Consumer Duty
• The Senior Managers & Certification Regime (SM&CR)
• All applicable laws and regulations, including those relating to financial crime and data protection

 

We expect all individuals associated with the Firm to understand and comply with these requirements.

 

3. Acting in Clients’ Best Interests

We place our clients at the heart of everything we do. We commit to:

• Acting honestly, fairly, and professionally
• Providing suitable, evidence-based financial advice
• Taking reasonable steps to understand clients’ needs, objectives, and circumstances
• Ensuring clients are treated fairly and receive clear, fair, and not misleading communications
• Supporting good client outcomes in line with the FCA Consumer Duty

 

4. Independence and Objectivity

As an independent financial adviser firm, we:

• Provide advice based on a comprehensive and fair analysis of the relevant market
• Are not restricted to particular providers or products
• Ensure recommendations are driven solely by client needs and suitability
• Avoid undue influence from providers, third parties, or commercial considerations

 

5. Conflicts of Interest

We seek to identify, manage, and where possible avoid conflicts of interest.

Where a conflict cannot be avoided, we will:

• Manage it fairly and transparently
• Disclose it clearly to affected clients
• Take appropriate steps to ensure clients are not disadvantaged

 

We maintain a Conflicts of Interest Policy and register in line with FCA requirements.

 

6. Remuneration and Fees

We are committed to transparent and fair remuneration practices. We:

• Clearly explain our fees and charges before providing services
• Avoid remuneration structures that could impair our duty to act in clients’ best interests
• Ensure any commission or third-party payments are disclosed where applicable

 

Our fee structures are set out in our Terms of Business and Client Fee Agreement.

 

7. Competence and Professional Development

We maintain high standards of professional competence. We:

• Ensure advisers and relevant staff are appropriately qualified and competent
• Comply with FCA training and competence requirements
• Undertake ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Regularly review skills and knowledge to maintain professional standards

 

8. Confidentiality and Data Protection

We respect the confidentiality of client information and handle personal data responsibly. We:

• Comply with UK GDPR and data protection legislation
• Use client information only for legitimate business and regulatory purposes
• Implement appropriate technical and organisational security measures

 

Further details are set out in our Privacy Policy.

 

9. Financial Crime Prevention

We have zero tolerance for financial crime. We:

• Comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations
• Conduct appropriate client due diligence and ongoing monitoring
• Report suspicious activity in accordance with legal requirements

 

10. Fair Treatment and Professional Conduct

We are committed to maintaining a professional, respectful, and inclusive working environment. We:

• Treat clients, colleagues, and third parties with dignity and respect
• Do not tolerate discrimination, harassment, or bullying
• Act responsibly and ethically in all business relationships

 

11. Complaints Handling

We take complaints seriously and view them as an opportunity to improve our services. We:

• Handle complaints promptly, fairly, and transparently
• Provide information about our complaints process
• Cooperate fully with the Financial Ombudsman Service where applicable

 

12. Whistleblowing and Speaking Up

We encourage individuals to raise concerns about unethical behaviour, misconduct, or regulatory breaches.

Concerns can be raised confidentially and without fear of retaliation, in line with our Whistleblowing Policy and FCA requirements.

 

13. Accountability and Responsibility

All individuals associated with the Firm are responsible for:

• Upholding this Code of Ethics
• Acting with integrity and professionalism
• Reporting actual or suspected breaches of this Code

 

Breaches of this Code may result in disciplinary action and, where appropriate, regulatory notification.

 

14. Review of This Code

This Code of Ethics is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains appropriate, effective, and compliant with regulatory requirements.

Blackwood Financial Planning Ltd