Whether you have accumulated savings or inherited cash from the sale of a business or an elderly relative, it is important to seek advice to discuss the options on how best to invest it.

Many wealthy people are happy to stay in cash with a Bank or Building Society rather than risk losing some of the capital through an investment that performs poorly. Investing is not for everyone as there is a risk attached to virtually all investments. Even cash can lose out to inflation over time.

So before investing you need to decide what level of risk you are prepared to take. Additionally, decide what time scale you have in mind and be realistic. Investment returns are best judged over the long term and you should be prepared to wait for as long as 10 years. However, it would be reasonable to see some significant returns after 5 years depending on the state of markets. You should always keep sufficient cash to cover any contingencies that may arise in the short term leaving the investments to grow.

It is also important to know what you want from your investments. Do you want a regular income now or in the future? What level of growth would you be happy with and how would you react to a sudden fall in the value of your investments?

Taylor Patterson Wealth Management helps you manage your risk and expectations by identifying what level of risk you are prepared to take and then matching that risk with an appropriate asset allocation. The position is regularly reviewed and there is always the opportunity to alter your profile or investment objectives.

We generally invest in 'collective investments' or funds that pool investors' cash together and invest in different markets around the world. Funds can invest in cash, commercial property and fixed interest as well as equities. They also enable investment into commodities and other more speculative assets.

We transact most of our fund business on a 'fund platform' that centralises the administration, making it more cost effective and lowering costs of dealing. The fund platform also offers online facilities to view portfolios.