The UK financial advice gap persists, with 88% of clients over 40 and 73% of clients over 50, according to new research from intelliflo.
Drawing on 2.8 million advised client records held within intelliflo office, the data shows that engagement with financial advice varies considerably across age, relationship status, gender, and geographical location. The advice gaps highlighted in the data show older generations, men, and married individuals are significantly more inclined to seek financial advice, whereas younger people, women, single people, and certain regions remain largely underserved.
The age gap: Nearly nine out of ten people receiving advice are 40 and over
Financial advice remains dominated by older generations, with those over 40 making up a staggering 88% of advised clients. Younger people, despite facing increasingly complex financial decisions, remain significantly underrepresented, with just 5% of advice-seekers under the age of 30. Even among those in their 40s, demand is low at 13%, reinforcing a persistent generational divide in financial planning.
The gender gap: men are more likely to receive advice than women
intelliflo’s data shows that men are more likely to seek financial advice, with 51% of men compared to only 43% of women accessing professional advice. This disparity is especially concerning as women tend to outlive men and are set to manage a larger share of UK wealth in the near future.
Northern Ireland sees the greatest divide, with 56% of men receiving financial advice, versus just 44% of women. The North East follows closely behind with a 11% gap.
The relationship gap: Married couples are far more likely to take advice
Married couples are far more likely to take advice, with 66% of advised clients being married. In contrast, only 17% of single people and 11% of widowers seek financial guidance, illustrating that financial advice tends to be prioritised once in a marriage.
The regional gap: Londoners and those in the South East most likely to take advice
While London (10%) and the South East (16%) see the highest uptake of financial advice, areas like North East (3%), Wales (4%) and Yorkshire (7%) show much lower levels. Northern Ireland, in particular, stands out as the least advised region, with just 2% of the population receiving advice.
Nick Eatock, CEO of intelliflo, said: “Our 2025 Advice Map really highlights how urgent it is to address the growing advice gap. Right now, financial advice is mostly reaching older generations, but we need to be more innovative and find ways to connect with younger people, women, and individuals across the whole country. Technology is key to making advice more affordable and accessible to everyone, no matter where they are or what their background is.
“By embracing technology, including artificial intelligence, to streamline processes, advisers can serve more clients and grow their businesses. The future of financial advice will depend on how we use technology to both drive growth and ensure everyone has access to the support they need.”
