Code of Ethics

The Personal Finance Society is a member of the Chartered Insurance Institute Group and has adopted the Code of Ethics in its entirety. The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) encourages the highest professional and ethical standards in insurance and financial services worldwide.

The Council and membership of the CII/PFS look to all members, to meet these standards and to maintain the reputation of the CII/PFS by following this Code of Ethics (the Code). It sets down the principles which all members of the CII/PFS should follow in the course of their professional duties.

The CII sets professional and ethical standards for insurance and financial services professionals worldwide.

As a member of the CII Group, the PFS has adopted the Code of Ethics in its entirety.

The Code is a powerful tool for members – it is as much a mark of distinction as the designations on your business card.

The Code is the foundation of trust in your person and in your business. The Code creates confidence in you and in the profession.

Duties of membership

The Code of Ethics gives clear guidance on how to act in relation with the many stakeholder groups in the conduct of your professional business.

Core values

The Code sets down the principles which all members should follow in the course of their professional duties.

You must therefore:

1. Comply with this Code and all relevant laws and regulations.
2. Act with the highest ethical standards and integrity.
3. Act in the best interests of each client.
4. Provide a high standard of service.
5. Treat people fairly regardless of: race or racial group; sex or sexual orientation; religion or belief; age; and disability.

Failure to comply with the Code may result in disciplinary action against you and risk adverse publicity for yourself and your organisation. Members are obliged to comply with this Code. If they do not comply, this may result in the CII/PFS taking disciplinary action against the member.

The new Code of Ethics came into force at the CII's AGM on 15th July 2009. Any offences that took place prior to the introduction of the new Code of Ethics will be charged against the old Code of Ethics and Conduct, whereas all offences which take place after the 15th July 2009 will be charged against the new Code of Ethics.