Key Highlights from the 2024 Autumn Budget

Chancellor Rachel Reeves presenting the 2024 Autumn Budget with key financial changes impacting income tax, pensions, and inheritance tax

The Chancellor’s first Autumn Budget under the new Labour government introduced significant updates that could impact your financial plans. From adjustments to stamp duty land tax and pensions to changes in inheritance tax and capital gains, these new measures reflect the government’s goals to stabilise finances while funding essential public services. You can read the…

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Understanding Stroke: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Financial Protection

World Stroke Day awareness graphic highlighting October 29th as a day to raise awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, and support

By Samuel Mather-Holgate Every year, millions of people around the world experience a stroke. I know, personally, several people who have (and are) going through the ordeal who each have individual symptoms varying in severity. World Stroke Day, observed on October 29th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about stroke prevention, symptoms, treatment, and…

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Lending Options for Older Clients: Finding the Right Solution for Your Financial Needs

Older couple practising yoga, representing financial flexibility and a healthy lifestyle in retirement

By Samuel Mather-Holgate As people are living longer and healthier lives, many older clients are exploring financial options that allow them to maintain their lifestyle, supplement their pension income, or help family members. For older homeowners, there are a variety of lending solutions available, including traditional mortgages, retirement interest-only mortgages (RIO), and lifetime mortgages. Each…

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How Money Affects Mental Health: Financial Wellbeing on World Mental Health Day

Cartoon of a woman looking stressed and anxious about money, symbolising financial stress and its impact on mental health

As we recognise World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that mental health doesn’t exist in isolation. One of the most significant and often overlooked factors affecting our mental wellbeing is money. Whether it’s the stress of debt, the anxiety of managing expenses, or the emotional toll of financial instability, the relationship between money…

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UK Autumn Statement: How Labour Might Tackle the Fiscal Deficit Without Raising Income Tax, National Insurance, or VAT

Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, walking down Downing Street, preparing for the Autumn StatementRachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, walking down Downing Street, preparing for the Autumn Statement

Introduction With Labour’s recent election win, attention is now focused on their upcoming Autumn Statement, which will reveal their plans to address the so-called “fiscal black hole.” Labour has already ruled out increasing income tax rates, National Insurance, or VAT, narrowing the options available to raise the necessary revenue. This blog explores the potential tax…

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Accessing Personal Insurance for People with HIV

Collage of diverse faces forming a single face, symbolising that HIV can affect anyone, regardless of background

Accessing Life Insurance and Income Protection for People with HIV: Myths Dispelled and the Importance of Expert Advice Living with HIV has seen significant advancements in recent years, particularly in terms of medical care and access to insurance. At Mather & Murray Financial, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that these changes present. Recent…

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Big Changes Ahead for Childcare Funding!

Happy toddler playing with educational toys at a playgroup, benefiting from expanded childcare funding

By Helen Quayle Attention, working families with preschoolers—exciting changes are coming your way! Did you know that childcare funding is about to change significantly? Here’s what you need to know about the expanded offer. The Expanded Offer Starting in April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds can access 15 hours of childcare support per week.…

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Navigating Financial Planning During Divorce: Essential Considerations

Happy older couple driving together in a car post-divorce, symbolizing new beginnings and financial independence

Introduction Divorce can be a profoundly challenging time, affecting individuals not only emotionally but also financially. Understanding how to manage and protect your finances during this significant life transition is crucial for long-term stability. In this blog post, we’ll look into the essential financial aspects you need to consider when going through a divorce, including…

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Celebrating Armed Forces Day: The Importance of Financial Advice for Our Heroes

Colourful military parade celebrating Armed Forces Day, showcasing uniformed personnel marching in formation

Introduction As we approach Armed Forces Day on 29th June, it’s a time not only to honour our service members, veterans, and their families but also to acknowledge the unique financial challenges they face. The demands of military life, including frequent relocations and deployments, can make financial planning especially complex. The Value of Specialised Financial…

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