Two years of planning, investment and consultation have culminated in the launch of the Fidelity FundsNetwork Adviser Foundation. Already in use by over 300 advisors, the foundation is a bespoke training and development solution for advisors and their firms, the first in the platform industry to provide help and support for the recruitment and development of young advisors. Research and discussion revealed that while several providers across the financial services industry offer training services, many have gone to market with only one part of a complete solution, for example an online resource or a programme of workshops. David Dalton-Brown, head of Fidelity FundsNetwork, said: “The foundation will not be just another online library of documents for advisors. In fact, what we will offer is much broader, while specialising in face to face, bespoke training and advice, designed to help advisor firms raise industry standards. It has been designed with advisors, for advisors. Its ultimate aim is to support firms in growing their business and to become more profitable and effective.” The foundation claims to be different in offering a comprehensive and complete solution; while it does offer online resources, it also aims to help firms bring new advisors into the industry through apprenticeships and internships and help develop them into chartered or certified financial planners while developing good business practices. The foundation is led by Sara Powell, who has over 20 years experience as an IFA and developing industry standard training at the Financial Services Skills Council. Over time, more services will be made available, Fidelity says. Currently, the aspects in use include job role design using National Occupational Standards and competency frameworks; the application of technical knowledge course for taxation and trusts; CII Diploma qualification training; SII Introduction to Investment qualification training for back office staff; support to develop apprenticeships; and summer internships. The next phase will be to offer a number of face to face training events that advisors can use to support their business, including asset allocation tools, holistic financial planning, business structure, compliance and marketing and communication. An online technical library will also be made available. Further developments also include a business strategy planning event, followed by one-to-one business coaching and a range of soft skills courses.