More than a quarter of UK adults say they would not know how to access trustworthy financial advice if they needed it, according to new research.

The findings, from a nationally representative survey conducted by Opinium, suggest that uncertainty about advice remains widespread despite growing concern about personal finances.

More than one in four people (26%) said they were not confident about how or where they could find trustworthy financial advice. At the same time, almost one in seven (14%) acknowledged they know they need advice but have yet to take any action, rising to 22% among Gen Z.

The research comes as the Chancellor’s Spring Statement included downgraded economic growth forecasts. In that context, a quarter (25%) of UK adults said they are worried about their finances.

However, relatively few have sought professional support. Only 5% said they have accessed independent financial advice since the start of 2026, while a further 5% said they had looked into obtaining advice. One in ten (10%) reported that they were already receiving financial advice.

ADVICE GAP REMAINS

Half of respondents (50%) said they do not believe they need independent financial advice, although that proportion falls to 27% among Gen Z.

Among those who recognise they need advice but have not pursued it, concerns about cost were the most commonly cited barrier, mentioned by a third (33%).

Nearly a quarter (23%) said they were unsure what type of adviser they needed or did not know any financial advisers.

One in five (21%) said they were unsure what questions to ask an adviser or had not had time to explore their options.

The research also examined attitudes towards potential alternatives such as targeted support. A quarter (27%) said that even if targeted support were available free or at low cost, they would still feel the need to access paid independent financial advice. Among Gen Z respondents, that figure rises to 40%.

REVIEWING FINANCES

The study suggests that many people have already begun reviewing their financial position this year.

More than half of respondents (57%) said they reviewed their personal finances at the start of the year. Budgeting for the year ahead was the main reason for doing so, cited by 47%, followed by setting new financial goals (27%), planning for major expenses (25%) and dealing with debt (16%).

For some, this process highlighted the need for professional advice. Around 7% said they had never previously considered seeking financial advice but realised they needed it after reviewing their finances at the start of the year. This rises to 13% among Gen Z.

Matthew Howlett, research manager at Opinium, said: “The start of the year has prompted many people to take stock of their finances, but our findings highlight a notable advice gap.

“While a significant number recognise they need financial advice, many have yet to take the next step, often due to uncertainty around cost, where to start, or who to trust.

“This is particularly pronounced among younger adults, who show both higher levels of concern and greater openness to seeking advice.

“Overall, the data paints a picture of rising financial awareness, but with too many barriers still standing in the way of action.”

Opinium conducted the survey of 2,000 UK adults between 13 and 17 February 2026.