Sesame launches RDR 'idea-share' tool

IFA network giant Sesame is set to launch an online RDR forum enabling its member firms to share ideas as they prepare for life after 2012.

The forum, which will be launched next month, will enable advisers to discuss RDR topics, such as qualifications and moving to fee charging.

Sesame, which last year completed the acquisition of Bankhall and PMS to form Sesame Bankhall Group, already offers online TCF support and runs virtual debates which members can watch and take part in from their desks.

"An online forum is ideally suited to the evolving RDR environment as it will quickly and easily enable advisers to share their experiences and raise any issues, which Sesame will try to help them solve," Sesame managing director Nick Kelly says.

"It is another opportunity for us to interact with members on this important topic, and we will also look to address any emerging themes as part of our wider learning and development programme."

The company has also announced plans to take on 20 trainees this year as part of a pilot scheme to attract talented new blood to the industry.

It plans to train the individuals to QCF Level 4 standard within two years but says it does not necessarily consider graduates as ideal candidates.

"Universities are an obvious place to look," Kelly says. "But we are very aware of the importance of life experience, empathy, that sort of thing, that perhaps doesn't say ‘student' but instead a return-to-worker.

"Our intention is to help our members grow and attract new advisers who have got the quality to the industry."