How we work

Phase 1 - Getting to Know Each Other

First, we like to take the opportunity to get to you know you, and to allow you to get to know us. Whether it’s why we do what we do, how we started, or what motivates our staff - this is the chance to ask!

Phase 2 - Your Motivations

Secondly, we like to understand what issues motivate you. What makes you cross? When we started, ethical investment was driven by avoidance - if a company was doing no harm, it was deemed acceptable (the opportunity to invest for positive outcomes in 1989 was limited). Now, there are a range of sustainability areas into which capital can be directed. But what matters most to you?

Phase 3 - Sustainable Choices vs Risk

Sometimes, there is a tension between investment aspirations and risk. Some of the most appealing and exciting investment opportunities in the positive sphere (whether they be social, environmental, or relating to any issue you care about) can come with higher risk profiles. Our role is to make sure that implications of such investments are clear, to avoid any disappointment.

Phase 4 - Your Goals

Next, we need to understand your goals. What do you want to achieve with your money? Most clients have a specific financial objective in mind, whether that be “I want someone to look at my pensions” or “I have inherited a portfolio of shares and want to invest in line with my principles.” We collect all the information we need to address the financial issues that our clients may have identified from the outset, but we also highlight areas that may require further attention.

Phase 5 - Working Together

This stage is simple, but crucial. We need to work together, and trust each other, to ensure any partnership is going to flourish.

Phase 6 - Your Finances

Finally, once you have got to know us, and we have understood you, your views, and your goals, it is time to discuss money. How much do you have? How much do you want to invest? How much do we charge?

Money is always the last thing we discuss in detail - your views and values come first.