November 8th to 12th 2021 was Talk Money Week, an event organised by the Money & Pensions Service to encourage people to open up and start having conversations about financial matters.
Lots of us find it hard to talk or even think about money, but overcoming that barrier and getting into this subject can be hugely beneficial, not just for your finances but for your mental health as well.
Why it's good to talk about money
The past two years have brought plenty of stress and uncertainty for everyone, but Police Officers and Staff are likely to have felt the strain more than most.
A survey published by the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) in July 2021 highlighted the health impact of policing the pandemic, with more than three-quarters of respondents saying they had experienced mental wellbeing difficulties in the past year.
According to the PFEW's Pay and Morale Survey 2020, nearly four out of ten Officers (37%) worried about their personal finances every day or almost every day.
The idea behind Talk Money Week is that starting even the simplest conversations about financial matters can help you:
- Feel less stressed and anxious
- Make better and less risky financial decisions
- Teach positive habits to your children
- Form stronger personal relationships
Metfriendly took part in the event by hosting a series of free webinars focusing on four key topics:
- Saving to buy your first home
- Police pensions
- Basic budgeting and saving
- Saving for your family
If you missed out on these, don't worry, because we have more webinars lined up in the coming months. You can find the details and book your place here.
We also marked Talk Money Week by creating a series of downloadable factsheets highlighting some of the simple changes you can make right now to start getting your finances in better shape.
Practical steps to improve your finances
The factsheets focus on quick and simple actions that will help you progress towards your financial goals, whether it's buying your first home, planning for retirement or saving for your family.
You can also find out more about the link between money and mental health, as well as some of the free tools available to help you get to grips with your money and plan your financial future.
Just head to this page to learn more about these resources and see how you can get yours.
If you would prefer to talk through your current situation and the financial options available to you, book a one-to-one meeting with us or give us a call on 01689 891454.
