It All Counts
We often discuss the stigma of talking about mental health in construction. The exact same stigma exists for money. Finances can be treated with secrecy. There can be shame about being in debt. There can be embarrassment around salaries. Human nature has us constantly comparing ourselves to other people’s situations.
Talk Money Week is a great opportunity to normalise discussing finances and make these interactions feel less awkward.
The theme this year is “It All Counts” because when it comes to money, it’s often the small things that make the biggest difference.
Whether it’s putting a little aside each week, Christmas, checking your budget, reviewing your spending, or having an honest conversation about money, it all counts.
For many people in construction, the end of the year brings added financial pressure. Christmas, family celebrations, time off work, and rising everyday costs all put a strain on finances. Our workforce is struggling now more than ever, and things may well get harder heading into winter.
Small, realistic steps like budgeting can help you feel more in control and avoid unnecessary stress later on.
It All Counts.
What you can do:
- Set a weekly spending limit.
- Regularly check your bank balance/make use of functions in your banking app to manage your money.
- If you can, put a little aside each week for events/emergencies.
- Make a meal plan before food shopping so you aren’t wasting/spending money on what you don’t need.
- Talk to your family members and agree on spending limits for Christmas within what you’re comfortable paying to take the pressure off.
What we can do:
- Offer advice on budgeting.
- Support with accessing financial support.
- Deliver emergency food shops if you’re struggling financially.
- Support with mortgage and rent payments if you are struggling to pay them.
Making Tax Digital: Are You Ready?
We couldn’t do Talk Money Week without mentioning one of the biggest changes facing finances in construction – Making Tax Digital.
For many self-employed construction workers and subcontractors, Making Tax Digital will change the way tax records are kept and submitted now and in the years ahead.
While the changes may seem daunting, getting prepared now can help make the transition much easier. Keeping digital records, understanding what information you’ll need, and becoming familiar with approved software can all help reduce stress and avoid last-minute surprises.
We’ve created a simple guide explaining what Making Tax Digital means, who it affects, and what steps you can take to prepare.
Change Can Start Today
We’re sorry for talking about Christmas already! But, for most, THIS is the most expensive time of the year. A recent survey by StepChange Debt Charity found that one in four people (28%) expect to struggle to afford Christmas, while 8%, around four million people, plan to rely on credit to get through the season. But planning ahead can make a real difference.
It can be tempting to leave everything until the last minute, but starting now gives you more time to spread costs, set realistic expectations, and make decisions you’re comfortable with.
That could mean:
- Setting a budget and sticking to it.
- Putting aside a small amount each week .
- Planning for any time off work.
- Making a list before you start shopping (and sticking to it!)
- Talking openly with family about spending limits.
- Avoiding borrowing more than you can comfortably repay.
Remember, Christmas isn’t about how much you spend. The best celebrations are the ones that don’t leave you worrying about money well into the New Year.
Every penny counts. Every conversation counts. Every small step counts.
It All Counts.
How we can help
We provide free and confidential wellbeing support to everyone working in construction and their families across the UK and Ireland.
No matter the challenge, no matter who you are, support is here when you need it.
Click through the slides below to find out more about the free, confidential support services available to you.
