When it comes to estate planning, and building trust, Sara Sheppard TEP, the founder of SLS Wills and More places a huge value on this. Sara has been a full member of STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) for years and holds the prestigious TEP (Trust and Estate Practitioner) accreditation. When asked about Sara’s membership with STEP, she shed light on the organisation itself, and explained why TEP accreditation is a coveted achievement for estate planning professionals.
A Glimpse into STEP
Before delving into the merits of TEP accreditation, let’s first understand what STEP is and why it exists. STEP is a global professional association for practitioners who specialise in family inheritance and succession planning. Established in 1991, STEP has since grown to become a leading authority in the field of trusts, estates, and wealth management.
STEP’s primary mission is to promote high professional standards among its members and foster public confidence in the trust and estate planning profession. The organisation accomplishes this by providing education, training, and a global network of like-minded professionals. Membership in STEP signifies a commitment to maintaining the highest ethical and technical standards in the industry.
TEP: The Gold Standard
At the heart of STEP’s mission lies the TEP accreditation, an acronym that signifies Trust and Estate Practitioner. Becoming a TEP is no small feat; it represents the pinnacle of professional achievement in the field of estate planning. TEP status is a testament to an individual’s expertise, experience, and commitment to upholding the highest standards of practice.
TEP accreditation is a comprehensive qualification that covers various aspects of trust and estate planning, including taxation, legal considerations, ethics, and the practical application of knowledge. Holders of this accreditation are recognised worldwide as experts in their field, and they are held to a strict code of professional conduct.
Why TEP Matters
For professionals in the estate planning industry, obtaining TEP accreditation is not just an accolade; it is a validation of their expertise and dedication to serving their clients’ best interests. Here are some compelling reasons why TEP membership matters:
1. Expertise: TEPs have undergone rigorous training and examination to acquire in-depth knowledge of estate planning, trusts, and taxation. This expertise ensures that clients receive the highest quality advice and guidance.
2. Ethical Standards: TEPs adhere to STEP’s stringent Code of Professional Conduct, which emphasises the highest ethical standards and integrity. Clients can trust TEPs to act in their best interests.
3. Global Network: Being part of the STEP community provides TEPs with access to a vast network of fellow professionals worldwide. This network facilitates collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and access to the latest industry developments.
4. Continuous Learning: STEP encourages its members, including TEPs, to engage in ongoing professional development. This commitment to learning ensures that TEPs stay up-to-date with the ever-evolving legal and financial landscape.
5. Client Confidence: TEP status is a mark of excellence that instill confidence in clients. Knowing that their estate planning is in the hands of a TEP can provide clients with peace of mind. For Sara though, this wasn’t enough. She’s also a Fellow (FSWW) of the Society of Will Writers, sits on their Professional Standards Board AND trains estate planning professionals as a tutor at The College of Will Writing.
Sara Sheppard TEP: A Beacon of Excellence
Sara Sheppard’s membership in STEP and her attainment of TEP status (in Oct 2003 – 20 years ago) exemplify her dedication to providing top-notch estate planning services through SLS Wills and More. As the founder of the firm, Sara has set a standard of excellence that is evident in her commitment to lifelong learning, unwavering ethics, and a genuine desire to help clients navigate the complexities of estate planning.
Sara’s TEP accreditation is a testament to her dedication to the craft, and it underscores her mission to provide the highest level of service and expertise to her clients in Kent and beyond. Her affiliation with STEP and her TEP status are not just symbols of professional accomplishment; they are a promise of exceptional service and a commitment to the well-being of her clients.
Tom Stansfield
