Accredited bodies will:

• ensure that all of the advisers who use their services are subscribing to a code of ethics that is consistent with the Statements of Principle for Approved Persons;
• check that all of the advisers who use their services hold an appropriate qualification, including verifying 100% of their gap-fill where required;
• carry out a random 10% CPD sample check (the body can exceed this requirement if they choose); and
• recognise CPD activity from a range of providers, including firms’ own in-house schemes.

All advisers will need to hold an SPS that is issued by an accredited body. The SPS confirms that advisers:

• have adhered to the ethical standards;

• hold the required qualifications (including gap-fill); and

• have completed appropriate CPD.

Factsheet