Retirement in the UK by numbers

  • source: www.houseofcommonslibrary.co.uk – April 2026
  • source: www.ageuk.co.uk – December 2024
  • source: www.pensionbible.co.uk – April 2026
  • source: www.retirementlivingstandards.co.uk – May 2026

“Don’t simply retire from something; have something to retire to”

Harry Emerson Fosdick

Why do people resist retirment?

For many, retirement can feel like a distant dream, but as it approaches and becomes real, moving into the next stage of life can feel daunting. We’ve supported many clients in overcoming these barriers, and the case studies below are designed to bring those experiences to life.

It is too complicated

Retirement can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help. Read what Equilibrium Chartered Financial Planner Paul Farrugia believes are the key things to look for when planning for a confident retirement.

It is too expensive

Understanding how much is enough for retirement can be challenging. This independent guide outlines different retirement lifestyles and the income needed to support them, helping you benchmark your plans and turn aspirations into reality.

I am too young

Retirement isn't about reaching a particular age. Discover how your finances, health and personal goals can shape the right retirement date, and the risks of retiring too early or too late.

My career is my identity

Retirement can be challenging when your career has shaped your identity for decades. Without the structure, purpose and recognition work provides, many people find themselves questioning who they are and what comes next.

Family and friends' opinions

Your partner is ready to embrace retirement, but you're not. Discover why couples often reach this milestone at different times, and how honest conversations can help bridge the gap.

It comes down to two key questions: do I have enough money to live the life I want, and am I emotionally ready for what comes next?

The numbers question

How much will my pension be worth?

This interactive calculator acts as a guide to where you are and where you might be heading.

Calculate here

Am I on track for retirement?

Watch this video to find out why we use Voyant cashflow to give you a clear view of where you are and how to reach your ideal retirement.

What will my retirement look like financially?

In this video, it's explained why Voyant can give you confidence for the future as you draw on your wealth and support loved ones.

The emotions question

1

What are the 6 human needs?

Everyone shares the same six core needs, but we each prioritise and satisfy them differently, shaping beliefs, driving actions, and influencing life direction. Take this quiz to discover your top need.

Take the quiz
2

What if work is my purpose?

Remember, retirement can be viewed as a comma, not a full stop. Before stopping completely, explore reducing your hours or moving into a less demanding role.

Watch here
3

What could make me happy?

There are 5 key elements of wellbeing; physical, career, social, financial, community. They will never be equally shared but by doing well in all of these areas, you will have better days, months and decades.

Learn here

How we can help you

There is no right or wrong time to retire, but by working with your Equilibrium financial planner we can help bring clarity and confidence, so when the time comes you can enjoy it to the fullest.

Join us for one of our regular in-person Masterclasses.

Chartered Financial Planner, Tim Latham, draws on years of experience to guide you through what to consider before and during retirement, helping you gain clarity, confidence and peace of mind.

Book here

Prefer to explore at your own pace? Download a copy of our guide.

Learn how to turn your retirement aspirations into a practical plan, giving you the confidence to enjoy the life you want.

Guide

Retirement built around you

Retirement is about more than money. Watch this video to see how you could create a retirement that reflects your goals, values and aspirations.

Watch here

Speak to a financial planner about your retirement.

Existing client? Get in touch as usual.
New to Equilibrium? Click below or use the “schedule a chat” feature.

Contact here

Events

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Lasting Power of Attorney

Everyone should have a Lasting Power of Attorney in place, regardless of age or health. In this masterclass you'll gain a clear understanding of the terminology, legal requirements, risks of not having an LPA, and have the opportunity to ask questions throughout. Even if your circumstances are more complex, you'll leave better equipped to work with a solicitor.

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12:15 – 14:00
Wilmslow
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The Care Conundrum

Care costs can be significant, but planning ahead can help you stay in control. This thought-provoking masterclass will help you understand your options, challenge assumptions, and take practical steps to prepare for future care needs.

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10:00 – 11:30
Wilmslow
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  • Experience

Investment Safety Briefing

During this exclusive Masterclass, Equilibrium Portfolio Manager Harry Topping will reveal common investment mistakes, share practical ways to avoid them, and explain the strategies Equilibrium uses to help investors stay on track.

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12:15 – 14:00
Wilmslow
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  • Experience

Road to Responsibility

Financial Planners, Ben Harrison and Grace Burgin, will provide a gentle introduction to the world of financial planning and investment by sharing their expertise and insights.

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10:00 – 11:30
Head office
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  • Experience

IHT By Numbers

Inheritance tax planning is becoming increasingly complex, particularly with pensions expected to fall within the scope of inheritance tax from 2027. While these decisions are often influenced by family circumstances and emotions, this experience focuses on the financial impact of the options available, helping you understand the numbers first so you can make more informed decisions alongside your financial planner.

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12:15 – 14:00
Head office
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  • Experience

Right People, Right Money, Right Time

How can your money benefit your loved ones when they need it most? In this compelling masterclass, Financial Planner Ben Rogers will share transformative strategies to create life-changing outcomes for your loved ones, while potentially saving significant amounts of tax in the process.

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10:00 – 11:30
Head office
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  • Experience

Relishing or Resisting Retirement

Go beyond pensions and savings to explore retirement's financial, emotional and practical realities, helping you plan with greater confidence and purpose.

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12:15 – 14:00
Wilmslow
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  • Experience

Cyber Security

In this digital age, we’re all connected more than ever, making it even more crucial to ensure our online experiences are safe and secure. Join us for a masterclass and discover the most effective ways to protect yourself online.

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10:00 – 11:30
Wilmslow
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Investment Insights

Markets move fast. The world moves faster. Join Mike Deverell, Nathan Lingham and Harry Topping at our next Investment Insights as they cut through the noise and tell you exactly what it all means for your money.

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09:45 – 11:15
The Elm at Alderley Park, Cheshire
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15:00 – 16:30
The Shard, London
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principle of responsible investment accreditation logo
cyber essentials creditation logo
money marketing award winner best financial education initiative
pfs accreditation logo
consumer duty alliance award logo
investor in customers gold 2025 award logo
financial vulnerability charter logo
good business charter logo
principle of responsible investment accreditation logo
cyber essentials creditation logo
money marketing award winner best financial education initiative
pfs accreditation logo
consumer duty alliance award logo
investor in customers gold 2025 award logo
financial vulnerability charter logo
good business charter logo
principle of responsible investment accreditation logo
cyber essentials creditation logo
money marketing award winner best financial education initiative
View more awards and accreditations

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Equilibrium is a trading style of Equilibrium Financial Planning LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) and Equilibrium Investment Management LLP. Equilibrium Financial Planning LLP (OC316532) and Equilibrium Investment Management LLP (OC390700) are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and are entered on the financial services register under references 452261 and 776977 respectively. Registered Office: Ascot House, Epsom Avenue, Handforth, Wilmslow SK9 3DF. Both companies are registered in England and Wales.

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