Which?

Mel Kenny, a Chartered Financial Planner at Radcliffe and Newlands Wealth, shares her expertise on later life financial planning. She discusses the alarming rise in care costs and the lack of a cap, highlighting the financial strain on families. The conversation explores regional cost variations, especially between the Northeast and London, and how property values influence funding options. Kenny also emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, discussing strategies like annuities and equity release to ensure financial stability during transitions to care.

The podcast delves into the growing trend of oversized smartphones, exposing consumer frustration over the lack of smaller options. Insights from surveys reveal concerns about portability and ease of use. Listeners also get tips on how to shop for compact devices, including an exclusive recommendation for a small smartphone worth considering. Additionally, there are enticing offers for joining a consumer organization that provides valuable product reviews and personalized advice.

Dr. Justine Kluk, a London-based consultant dermatologist specializing in acne, teams up with Neal Rimmer, a senior scientific advisor on sunscreens. Together, they unravel the secrets to healthy summer skin. They discuss essential versus non-essential skincare products, emphasizing the importance of foundational skincare. The duo clarifies sunscreen complexities, detailing SPF ratings and UVA/UVB protection. They also provide tips for choosing the right sunscreen, including transparency in labels and techniques for effective application to ensure optimal sun safety.

Tony Herbert, a Senior Policy Advisor, and Chiara Cavalieri, a Senior Researcher, dive into the game-changing 'Pay by Bank' payment method. They discuss how this innovation allows direct payments from bank accounts and its potential to replace bank cards. Concerns about payment security and digital scams are raised, emphasizing the need for robust consumer protections. The duo also highlights the evolution of digital payments and the growing role of open banking, suggesting a shift in how we manage our finances.

Discover essential maintenance tips for your garden power tools, from lawn mowers to pressure washers. Learn how regular care can boost performance and extend their lifespan. Key practices include cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage for optimal functioning. Also, find out about membership offers for accessing exclusive reviews and personalized gardening advice. Don't miss the chance to enhance your gardening toolkit!

Join legendary fitness coach Mr. Motivator, aka Derek Evans, and fitness tracker expert Amy Axworthy as they dive into the essentials of exercising as we age. They discuss accessible fitness tips for older adults, emphasizing the importance of balance and strength to prevent falls. The duo also breaks down how fitness trackers can bolster health awareness while comparing smartwatches' features. With practical advice and a focus on positivity, they inspire listeners to embrace movement and keep active at any age.

Tom Selby, Director of Public Policy at AJ Bell, and Paul Davies, Which? Money's pension expert, delve into the world of self-invested personal pensions (SIPs). They break down the advantages of SIPs, including greater control and flexibility over retirement savings. The discussion highlights the importance of strategic planning and the benefits of consolidating multiple pension pots. Listeners learn how to select the best SIP providers and why SIPs are gaining popularity, especially among self-employed individuals.

In this week's episode of Which? Shorts, we tell you about the results of our most recent car survey, and reveal the models that stopped rolling off the production line many years ago that still offer amazing levels of reliability. Read more about the cars with great reliability & sign up for our free Cars newsletter Become a Which? member for 50% off the usual price

Doctor and broadcaster Oscar Duke shares insights on the surge of private healthcare options since the Covid-19 pandemic. He discusses the appeal of skipping NHS queues and the financial implications of private GP appointments. Duke analyzes the care standards between private services and the NHS, emphasizing the importance of understanding hidden costs. He also advises consulting a local GP before making a switch and highlights the dynamics between private providers and NHS availability. It's a timely discussion for anyone considering their healthcare options.

Matthew Jenkin from Which? Money and Amy Knight, Lead Writer at NerdWallet UK, dive into the effects of the falling Bank of England base rate amid rising inflation. They discuss how banks are adjusting savings rates and the importance of finding accounts that preserve purchasing power. The conversation highlights various savings options, including fixed and instant access accounts, and offers strategies to maximize returns in today’s economic landscape. Tune in for expert insights that empower your financial decisions!