North East financial firm achieves double accreditation

June 12th 2025

Active Chartered Financial Planners has become one of the only firms in the North East, and among just a handful across the UK, to have two financial planners accredited by Resolution for their specialist expertise in divorce and separation.
Chartered financial planner and fellow of the Personal Finance Society (PFS) Emma Cherrington, is the latest member of the team to achieve Resolution-accredited specialist status, following a demanding assessment process designed to test technical ability, practical experience, and a strong understanding of the financial challenges clients face when relationships break down.

Emma joins colleague Asif Sadullah, who also holds the accreditation, making the firm one of the very few firms nationwide, and possibly the only one in the region, to have two Resolution-accredited specialists under one roof.
The accreditation, issued by Resolution, a national organisation of family justice professionals, is recognised as a benchmark of excellence across the legal and financial sectors. Advisers must submit detailed casework, pass rigorous technical assignments, and demonstrate a commitment to Resolution’s code of practice, which promotes a constructive, client-first approach to resolving family matters.

Clients working with an accredited specialist can be confident they are receiving impartial, expert advice in areas such as pension sharing, asset division, tax planning and long-term financial stability, delivered with empathy and support.
Emma Cherrington, chartered financial planner at Active Chartered Financial Planners, said: “The accreditation is something I’ve worked very hard for. It reflects the kind of care and professionalism I bring to every client going through a separation. It’s a tough process, but rightly so, people need to know they’re getting advice that’s not just technically sound, but genuinely in their best interests.”

Asif, who joined the firm in 2024, is a chartered financial planner and PFS fellow with over 15 years’ experience in investment, retirement and tax planning. He is also vice president of the Chartered Insurance Institute in York and has served as its president in the past.
Karl Pemberton, managing director at Active, said: “To have two Resolution-accredited specialists on our team is a rare distinction, and something we’re incredibly proud of. It underlines the depth of expertise here at Active Chartered Financial Planners and, more importantly, means our clients have access to some of the best financial advice available when they need it most.”

“We work alongside some of the best solicitors and barristers in the region that act in the unfortunate event of a relationship breakdown. It is extremely important that not only the client themselves have confidence in us, but the divorce experts themselves when seeking a suitable financial adviser to partner with.”

Based in Thornaby-on-Tees, Active Chartered Financial Planners has been providing independent, holistic financial advice across the North East and Yorkshire for 25 years. The firm has held chartered status since 2013 and boasts 14 chartered team members.