Community: Talking about what matters 

On this page you’ll find helpful articles and our personal finance expert Ashley Shepherd’s insights into the topics that matter more with every passing year. From making the most of our retirement years to looking after our health and protecting our loved ones now and in the future. 

Ashley Shepherd
Over 60 railcard guide Image
13th Apr 2020

Over 60 railcard guide

Over 60 railcards save older train users money on their rail fares. In addition to cheaper train tickets, an over 60 railcard also gives you access to further discounts on products and services

How do I go about donating my body to science? Image
25th Nov 2016

How do I go about donating my body to science?

For significant numbers of people, the idea of donating their body after death to medical science has many attractions.

How does the cremation process work in the UK? Image
22nd Oct 2020

How does the cremation process work in the UK?

Little is known about the cremation process. Myths surrounding multiple cremations and recycled coffins are all common place, however the truth about cremation is somewhat different.

What is the nearest crematorium to me? Image
15th May 2021

What is the nearest crematorium to me?

When arranging a funeral you have the flexibility to choose any UK crematorium, regardless of whether it’s privately owned or run by the council.

What to write on a sympathy card Image
09th Nov 2020

What to write on a sympathy card

Writing a sympathy card isn’t easy. Naturally, you worry about saying the wrong thing, and upsetting our friend or relation at an already difficult time. Feeling this way is perfectly normal, but even the briefest message can mean a lot and comfort the bereaved person, so it's always worth making the effort.

How does the cremation process work in the UK? Image
22nd Oct 2020

How does the cremation process work in the UK?

Little is known about the cremation process. Myths surrounding multiple cremations and recycled coffins are all common place, however the truth about cremation is somewhat different.

How to stop nuisance calls with the Telephone Preference Service Image
22nd Apr 2020

How to stop nuisance calls with the Telephone Preference Service

The Telephone Preference Service, also known as the TPS, is the UK’s official ‘do not call’ register. It’s illegal for organisations to make unsolicited calls to Telephone Preference Service registered numbers.

Over 60 railcard guide Image
13th Apr 2020

Over 60 railcard guide

Over 60 railcards save older train users money on their rail fares. In addition to cheaper train tickets, an over 60 railcard also gives you access to further discounts on products and services

Coronavirus UK advice for the elderly Image
16th Mar 2020

Coronavirus UK advice for the elderly

As coronavirus is new there is no treatment for it and antibiotics do not work against virus’. It is therefore extremely important to practice good hygiene and follow the government’s advice.

What happens to my digital accounts when I die? Image
16th Dec 2019

What happens to my digital accounts when I die?

In this digital age of modern technology, much of our lives is spent online. Social media, online banking, gaming or music; the internet and electronic devices all play a crucial part.

Bereavement services in the UK Image
02nd Dec 2019

Bereavement services in the UK

Find out more about bereavement services and the support available near you, including whether you're entitled to any cash allowances.

Jobs for over 50s at all time high Image
30th Jul 2019

Jobs for over 50s at all time high

2019 has been a bumper year for jobs for the over 50s, with employment levels at an all time high and growing numbers becoming self employed; but what is the real story behind the headlines?

Another win in the fight against prostate cancer Image
06th Jun 2018

Another win in the fight against prostate cancer

It was with a happy heart that I read the latest BBC health news report about a new immunotherapy drug trial that appears to have had amazing results in one in 10 men with untreatable prostate cancer.

Expats in Spain living the good life Image
22nd Apr 2018

Expats in Spain living the good life

More than 120,000 (some 40%) of these British expatriates have chosen to retire there since they are aged 65 or over. What kind of life are they living? A very good one by all accounts. The Expat Insider Report for 2017 offers some clues as to why that might be.

How do I cope with grief? Image
15th Mar 2018

How do I cope with grief?

The death of someone close to us typically releases very personal emotions. Coping with grief is likely to vary considerably from one person to another and from one time to another.

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