16.01.25
Key Trends and Headlines Trustees Should Watch for in 2025
As 2025 begins, Trustees overseeing Trusts and estates for disabled beneficiaries face new challenges and opportunities.
From economic shifts to advancements in technology, these developments require Trustees to stay informed and adaptable to continue fulfilling their responsibilities effectively.
Here, we highlight key headlines and trends Trustees should consider to plan ahead and deliver meaningful support.
Economic and Financial Challenges
Economic uncertainty persists, inevitably impacting financial planning. Trustees must reassess investment strategies and budgeting priorities on a regular basis.
Key Considerations for Trustees:
- Review investment portfolios: Adjust for market volatility and consider ethical or impact investments aligned with beneficiaries’ long-term needs.
- Budget adjustments: Account for rising costs when managing Trusts to ensure sufficient funds remain for essential support.
- Cash flow planning: Maintain liquidity to meet immediate and unexpected needs of beneficiaries.
Actionable Insight: Work with financial advisors to review investment strategies and create contingency plans for economic fluctuations.
Legal and Regulatory Updates
The headlines: New regulations on estate planning, tax implications, or trustee responsibilities may come into effect in 2025.
Key Considerations for Trustees:
- Compliance awareness: Stay updated on changes in trust law and estate management regulations.
- Risk management: Review terms of the Deed(s) and policies to minimise legal risks and protect beneficiaries’ interests.
- Training: Ensure Trustees understand their fiduciary responsibilities under evolving legal frameworks.
Actionable Insight: Schedule regular check-ins with co-Trustees and professionals to ensure compliance and prepare for regulatory updates.
Technology and Accessibility
The Headlines: Digital tools and assistive technologies are creating more opportunities for improved service delivery and accessibility for disabled beneficiaries.
Key Considerations for Trustees:
- Explore technology: Technological advancements like communication devices, mobility aids, and even AI-driven solutions tailored for beneficiaries.
- Digital recordkeeping: Use secure platforms to manage Trust documents, ensuring efficient administration and transparency.
- Cybersecurity: Protect sensitive beneficiary information from increasing cyber threats.
Actionable Insight: Allocate funds for adopting technologies that directly enhance the quality of life for beneficiaries while ensuring robust cybersecurity practices.
Safeguarding and Wellbeing
The Headlines: Trustees are expected to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable beneficiaries amidst evolving social and legal expectations.
Key Considerations for Trustees:
- Regular Reviews: Assess safeguarding measures to ensure policies reflect best practices and legal requirements.
- Wellbeing-Focused Support: Invest in mental health resources and services for beneficiaries.
- Clear Reporting Mechanisms: Maintain accessible channels for beneficiaries to raise concerns safely.
Actionable Insight: Assign a trustee to oversee safeguarding policies and ensure regular training for all involved parties.
How can we help?
2025 presents both challenges and opportunities for Trustees managing Trusts and estates for disabled beneficiaries. By staying informed about key trends and adapting governance practices proactively, Trustees can ensure they continue to meet their responsibilities with integrity and foresight. If you would like support, or to talk to us about your role, please contact us for an informal discussion with a member of our specialist team.
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