IHGS Achievements
Family history research that uncovers the rich tapestry of your ancestry.
Work with Achievements, the research arm of IHGS, and benefit from more than 60 years of expertise in professional genealogy, family history, DNA-informed research advice, and heraldry.
Since 1961
Professional genealogy, family history, and heraldry research.
From first steps to complex brick walls, our researchers help turn records, places, and family stories into a clear research pathway.
60+ years of expertise
Achievements brings decades of specialist experience in genealogy, family history, heraldry, and historical research.
Worldwide reach
Although much work focuses on England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, research can extend across Europe, North America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and Oceania.
Clear reporting
Completed research includes a detailed report, copies of original documents, and a pedigree diagram showing your family tree where appropriate.
Researching Your Family Tree
Expert support whether you are beginning, stuck at a brick wall, or managing complex research needs.
Provide as much or as little information as you know. Whether you can share only your name and date of birth or already have extensive ancestral details, Achievements can work with what you have. If you have started your research and need help completing it, send the material over and the team can take it from there.
Getting started
New to genealogy? The team can help establish a practical research direction and identify the records most likely to move your family tree forward.
Tailored projects
Research options are flexible and can be shaped around different budgets. Tell Achievements what you need and they will provide a competitive rate.
Detailed reports
Research findings are presented in a written report with source material, copies of original documents, and a family tree diagram where appropriate.
Before making payment
Achievements encourages you to make contact first to discuss the available packages. To find out more, email enquiries@achievements.co.uk.
DNA Advisory Service
Make better sense of DNA results by combining genetic genealogy with historical research.
You may have taken a DNA test to connect with the past, learn more about your family history, or discover where to test next. DNA results can be difficult to interpret without expert knowledge. Through a network of DNA and family history specialists, IHGS can help you understand your results and use them alongside records and research resources.
IHGS does not undertake DNA testing itself, but can advise on where to test and what tests to take. If you already have DNA test results, include that information when you make your initial enquiry.
Signposting
The team will address your basic enquiries, assess what tests are needed, and explain what can be done.
Y-DNA Location Insight
Make new sense of your Y-DNA results and link them to more specific locations in England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.
USD prices are approximate, based on an exchange rate of £1 = $1.35 USD on April 26, 2026. Final charges may vary with exchange rates, payment processing, and card issuer fees.
Genealogical Advice Consultation
One-on-one advice to help you move forward with confidence.
Consultations are designed to give you the tools and insights you need, whether you are navigating records, rethinking a difficult problem, or planning next steps.
- Expert guidance: genealogists review your research and suggest practical next steps.
- Record navigation: advice on using online and offline resources effectively.
- Breaking brick walls: support for rethinking your strategy when an ancestor is missing.
- Tailored research plans: a focused approach for your unique family story.
After payment, please send a separate email to elizabeth@achievements.co.uk quoting your name and customer reference number to arrange a meeting time by Zoom or an alternative platform.
Genealogy Research Packages
Choose a research package that fits the depth and complexity of your family history question.
Please contact Achievements before making payment so the team can confirm which package is the best fit for your research goals.
Genealogy Research Essentials Package
An essential package to get started on your family tree. It makes a thoughtful gift, with the aim of going back 3-4 generations in a single line, records permitting.
Genealogy Research Foundations Package
Usually focused on a single surname over 4-6 generations, unless you have specific requirements such as dividing research time between two lines.
Genealogy Research Extended Package
For complex needs requiring access to more difficult and time-consuming resources, especially for remoter ancestry, medieval research, or work across different countries.
Genealogy Research Premium Package
For requirements likely to need a considerable amount of research, allowing work to proceed without interruption once the scope is agreed.
Heraldic Research
Specialist heraldic research for arms identification and more complex family-linked enquiries.
Heraldic Research Simple Query
This standard fee covers identification of a coat of arms from a known country. Where practicable, the team will try to attach the arms to a named individual.
Some arms have no published record. If the country of origin is unknown, the fee may need to be higher.
Heraldic Research Package
The starter package for more complex heraldic queries that also require genealogical research. It covers the work needed for the great majority of enquiries received.
Start Your Enquiry