Money talk doesn’t need to be awkward. This Talk Money Week, we’re breaking the silence around spending, saving, and everything in between, because the more we talk, the easier it gets to find help and make confident choices.
Quiz: How Money-Minded Are You?
We all think about money in different ways. This short quiz will help you find out what type of “money person” you are and share a few simple ideas to keep your finances on track.
Results
You’re steady, organised and like to know where you stand. You’ve probably already got a few financial routines that keep things running smoothly.
Keep it up:
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Review your budget every few months, even planners can find new ways to save.
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Build a small ‘fun fund’ so you can enjoy guilt-free spending.
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Keep your eye on long-term goals like pensions or emergency savings.
Where to start:
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Use MoneyHelper’s Budget Planner to check how your money habits stack up.
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Explore the Lighthouse Charity’s financial wellbeing resources for tools and support.
You’re flexible and resourceful, you find a way to make things work, even when plans change. A little structure could help you feel even more in control.
Try this:
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Set up a small automatic transfer to savings, even £10 a week adds up fast.
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Review your direct debits and cancel anything you’re not using.
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Keep a short list of go-to money resources so you know where to turn when things get tight.
Where to start:
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MoneyHelper’s Savings Calculator helps you see how long it will take to reach your goals.
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Visit our financial wellbeing pages for simple, step-by-step guidance.
You’ve got a big heart and love looking after the people around you. Just make sure you’re looking after yourself too.
Balance it out:
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Set a monthly ‘giving pot’ so generosity doesn’t leave you short.
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Before spending, ask: ‘Does this fit my budget this week?’
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Reward yourself with non-spending treats, time off, a walk, or a meal at home with friends.
Where to start:
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Try MoneyHelper’s Budget Planner to see where your money goes.
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Visit our support page for free financial advice if money starts to feel tight.
Money talk makes you uncomfortable, and that’s okay, lots of people feel the same. The hardest part is starting, but once you do, it gets easier.
Start small:
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Check your balance once a week, that’s all.
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Pick one bill or expense to review and see if you can make it cheaper.
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Talk to someone you trust about one money worry, breaking the silence helps.
Where to start:
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The MoneyHelper website has a treasure trove of guidance and tools on debt, savings and everyday spending.
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You can also reach out to us for free and confidential support if money worries are affecting your wellbeing.
#1. How often do you check your bank balance or budgeting app?
#2. Which best describes your spending style?
#3. You’ve got a bit of extra cash at the end of the month. What do you do?
#4. When it comes to saving…
#5. You get an unexpected bill. What’s your first move?
#6. Which statement sounds most like you?
#7. How do you feel about talking openly about pay, debt or savings?
#8. A friend mentions their debt worries. How do you react?
Cutting Corners (and Spending)
Small changes can make a big difference.
You don’t have to overhaul your lifestyle to save money; sometimes it’s the small switches that really add up.
Here are a few quick wins to help your pay go further without feeling the pinch:
- Two fewer pints a week could save around £48 a month, or £576 a year.
- Bringing lunch from home twice a week: Save roughly £15 a week, or £780 a year.
- Cancel unused subscriptions: One forgotten £10 a month adds up to £120 a year.
- Shop around at renewal: Compare deals on insurance, broadband or mobile contracts. Quick checks can save you £100 or more a year.
- Check your balance regularly: Knowing what’s coming in and going out helps you stay in control.
- Use cashback apps or loyalty points, a simple way to get a little back on what you already spend.
These tips aren’t about cutting out enjoyment, just being a bit smarter with the everyday choices. Then, the savings you make can go towards what matters most to you.
Get Support
If you’re looking for practical tools and guidance, there’s plenty of free support out there:
- MoneyHelper: budgeting tools, savings tips, and debt advice
- Visit our Financial Support page and explore help for managing finances and finding professional support
Need To Talk?
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is never far away. We offer free and confidential support to anyone in the construction community. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, financial worries or just need someone to talk to, there’s a way for you to reach us.
Click through the slides below to find out more about the free, confidential support services available to you.
Download our ‘Talk Money Week’ assets, including graphics and social media copy.
