Our history

PFS formed as a result of the merger of the Society of Financial Advisers (SOFA), which was previously the financial services arm of the CII, and the Life Insurance Association (LIA).

Chartered Financial Planner status launched to help consumers recognise experienced advisers committed to high professional standards.

Corporate Chartered Financial Planners title launched.

Personal Finance Awards launched.

Retail Distribution Review (RDR) implemented by the Financial Services Authority, the predecessor body of the FCA.

Paraplanning panel launched.

PFS Power launched, focused on financial planning skills development.

Mutual recognition agreement signed with European Financial Planning Association

My Personal Finance Skills, our schools’ education initiative, launched.

Consultation of PFS members undertaken to receive feedback on the future relationship between PFS and CII.

Duke of Edinburgh Award affiliation launched, with the inclusion of a PFS financial education module as part of the Bronze Award.

• Consumer Duty resource toolkit launched.

• Sustainable Financial Advice panel launched.