Look after your money this Christmas

The council's Energy and Homeowner Support Team is launching a new campaign that aims to gives advice, hints and tips to help residents plan for Christmas, manage their money better, spread the cost and not fall into a debt trap.

To coincide with National Talk Money Week (9 – 13 November), the ‘Countdown to Christmas’ campaign offers comprehensive money and debt advice available to all Wakefield district residents who are struggling, have worries or just have questions about how to make their money work better for them.

The Money and Pensions Service report that research shows that people who talk about money make better and less risky decisions about money, have stronger personal relationships, help their children form good money habits and feel less stressed or anxious and more in control.

Coun Darren Byford, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Regeneration, said: “This is already such a difficult time of year financially for many residents and the Covid-19 crisis is continuing to have a huge impact, especially with many businesses closing their doors again this week. But still 9 out of 10 adults don’t talk about money and that needs to change.

“Christmas is fast approaching at a time when many residents are feeling even more financial pressure as a result of furlough, redundancy and the latest national lockdown.

“We want to offer our residents someone to talk to who isn’t a friend or relative, with who they might feel more comfortable to talk about money.

“Please don’t struggle and end up in an even worse situation, we are here to help. Contact us to get advice and support now.”

More information can be found at http://www.wakefield.gov.uk/housing/energy/money-smart or www.facebook.com/WakefieldSupport