SJP helps 39 advisers launch businesses during lockdown

The financial advice giant has supported businesses launched by recent academy graduates across the UK, including in Aberdeen and Kent. The graduates received support through the SJP Academy throughout the pandemic and ranged from ages 24 to 59 years old.

More than a third (38%) were female, including three who have returned to the workplace after taking a career break. Others came from backgrounds in sport, teaching, hospitality and the military.

Those taking part in the two-year Academy training programme have the choice to either start their own business or to be an adviser at an existing partner practice. Since its creation in 2012, the SJP Academy has helped create 557 SMEs across the UK.

SJP Academy member and former footballer Robbie Simpson (pictured) said: "I've had to adapt to new ways of working, in terms of using technology, and as with any new start-up there are always teething problems.

"But with the training and support from SJP and the Academy, coupled with potential clients seeming to have more time on their hands to think about their finances, I really feel there couldn't have been a better time to launch my new business."

Academy member and former business manager Naomi Haynes said she had not let lockdown negatively impact her career.

"The pandemic has caused a lot of worry about people's financial wellbeing, and lockdown has actually given me the opportunity to connect with people via video calls, as well as via telephone, to provide advice on their financial journey during a difficult time," she added. 

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