The Financial Services Compensation Scheme has declared 13 firms in default in November and December of 2020.

Anyone who dealt with any of the firms the FSCS named, can now make a claim to the scheme.

Included in the list is Optimus Wealth Management, formerly Howard and Co (Mortgages) Ltd and Fiducia Wealth Solutions.

The remaining firms listed are Barnbeck Limited, Dexia PAM Limited, Direct Market Touch Limited, Drew Financial Services, J L Fisher Financial Services Limited, Mentor Financial Limited, Stephen Davies Limited, Wingray Autos Limited, Horbury Bridge Garages Limited, Ober Private Clients Limited and Walker Woodhead Financial Planning Limited.

FSCS chief executive Caroline Rainbird says: “Because these firms are unable to pay back the money they owe their customers, FSCS can step in and pay them compensation. As chief executive, I see first-hand the important role FSCS plays to help people who have lost money through their dealings with financial services firms that have failed or are no longer trading.

“The impact of their financial loss should not be underestimated. People who claim through FSCS are often vulnerable. We treat each person with empathy and understanding as their claim is progressed.”