When it comes to seeking professional advice, it seems that most British adults are backward in coming forward, according to new research from Alliance & Leicester Investments & Protection.

Between 10-12 January 2006 YouGov polled 2,207 UK adults over the age of 18.  The results showed that whilst only a very small percentage of Brits (7%) never ask anyone at all for general advice and a significant proportion (40%) don't go to the doctor for medical advice, it's our financial health that we're most coy about with around 71% of people never seeking out professional advice.

Worryingly, when it comes to getting specific advice on health, career and finances, Brits appear to be cautious about approaching professionals, prefering instead to chat informally to those that know them best about these things.  Over 16 million Brits (38%) turn to their partner in times of need and a further eight million (18%) seek guidance from friends.

Health

Alarmingly, almost 18 million (40%) UK adults don’t go to the doctor when they need advice on a health issue, with almost a quarter (23%) asking partners and parents. Not surprisingly, this is worse among the younger generation: just 34% of 18-29 year olds choose to go to the doctor as opposed to 77% of over 50s.

Finances

Less than a third (29%) said that they seek expert advice to discuss their finances – leaving the other two thirds (71%) speaking to their partners, friends or family, or not seeking any advice on their finances whatsoever.

One in six (15%) said the reason they don’t seek professional advice when it comes to their finances, was the cost.  However, as Alliance & Leicester point out, in fact many companies (including Alliance & Leicester) now offer a free financial health check.

Careers

An even smaller proportion of people seek professional advice about their careers - just over one in ten (13%). Once again, Brits turn to their partners to guide and advise them in arguably one of the most important areas of their lives. Even more troubling, more than a quarter (28%) of Brits don’t ask anyone for help at all!

Lindsey Henson, Investment & Protection Product Manager at Alliance & Leicester comments: "It’s natural that people should turn to those closest to them for general advice on life, however it is concerning that they are not turning to the experts for more serious matters such as health and major financial decisions.

"When it comes to our finances, whilst a chat with our partners can help vent any worries and explore our plans, it cannot compare with a structured discussion with a qualified financial adviser."

The research also found an emerging trend of using the internet to seek advice. More than 2 million (5%) people choose this route for general advice, instead of speaking to their nearest and dearest. This is perhaps due to the sense of anonymity that people feel they have in using the internet, as well as the perceived value of having a wealth of free information available at the click of a button. Indeed, a third (33%) said they choose to use the internet for advice as it is less embarrassing than going elsewhere.

Henson comments: "While the internet can be used as a great source of information, it is no substitute for getting advice that is tailored to your individual situation and needs."