Talk Money Week: 6th - 10th November 2023

Talk Money Week: 6th - 10th November 2023

Every year in November moneyhelper.org.uk runs Talk Money Week which encourages us to be open with family, friends and children about money and financial wellbeing. Conversations about money is too often seen as a taboo subject, and are found awkward to broach, but this week is an ideal time to think and talk about everything from pensions to pocket money - and stop the awkwardness. 

It is estimated that 1 in 3 of us say that thinking about our own finances makes us feel worried. Here are some steps to address uncertainty and improve your financial situation.

• Talk to family, friends and children to encourage openness, and make them and yourself, feel more confident in managing money
• Seek out expert help if needed, they may be able to help by offering you a route to greater financial resilience to deal with any future income changes or life events that affect your finance.

Almost a third of parents and carers don’t talk to their children about money, missing out on opportunities to help them understand from a young age. 

Why don’t people like to talk about money?

“Everyone will know I’m hopeless with money..”
People change over time. Just because you used to be bad with budgeting and spending, doesn’t mean you can’t learn to adapt. 

“I have no one to talk to...”
moneyhelper.org.uk is a great place to start in finding someone to talk to. They’re free and impartial and can pass you onto someone else if needs be.

“I’ll look stupid..”
Dealing with mistakes early will mean they’re easier to resolve. 

“My partner is better with money than me, I’ll let them deal with it...”
Being good with money comes with practice, allowing someone else to deal with things will mean you won’t know if you are suddenly on your own. 

“I don’t want to worry my family...”
Sometimes letting your family in can be a huge help to sort out any issues and find solutions together.

Get Support 
If you do need help to manage your money, these organisations are ready to offer expert, impartial advice and resources.

• MoneyHelper - Free and impartial money and pensions guidance. Explore their cost of living guides here. 
• National Debtline - Get free expert advice and support you need on 0808 808 4000
• Step Change - Expert debt advice and fee-free debt management 0800 138 1111