About managing your money
Sometimes you may find it really difficult to manage your own money. Your Leaving Care Worker can help prompt, guide and advise you. This may be especially helpful when you are considering moving in to your own home and have to set up all of your new bills, but just getting organised when you are 18 is a really good idea. We will try to help you financially and develop the skills you need to manage your own finances.
We will:
- support you to open your own bank account
- give you information about how to access your Junior ISA or Child Trust Fund
- give you your financial gift at birthdays and Christmas or other celebrations
- support you to get important identification documents, such as a passport and provisional driving licence, before your 18th birthday
- support you to get your National Insurance number
- make sure you get the advice you need to help you learn to manage your money and make sure this is written down into your Pathway Plan
- help you with your budgeting skills
- help you with financial support if you need it in an emergency
- make sure you know where and how to apply for any benefits you might be entitled to
We will also help you
- apply for grants from organisations like the Kings Trust or the Buttle Trust if there are things that you need but can’t afford
- get to know where you can get advice and information about money matters – such as saving ideas, budgeting tips and how to manage debt
Help to manage your money
These links can help you understand your money, plan a budget, and get support if things feel difficult.
- Budget planner helps you plan your money and see what you can afford.
- Step change offers free and confidential advice if you are worried about debt.
- JobCentre Plus gives information about benefits, work, and financial support.
- Nidirect – Advice on money, benefits and budgeting.
- Citizens Advice can help with money problems, debt, and benefits.
- MoneySavingExpert has lots of tips on saving money and managing your budget.
- Mental health and debt – Support if money worries are affecting how you feel.
- Turn2us – more help and information about benefits and financial support
These websites give information about support if you have a learning disability or if someone helps you manage your money:
- DOSH – Support to help you understand and manage your money safely.
- Moneycarer – Information and guidance for people who need help with money.