Money. It’s not going away, and it’s one of the most essential parts of our lives, and yet, for many, it’s still one of the hardest things to talk about. Whether it’s how much we earn, how much we save, or how we manage debt, money conversations are often avoided due to discomfort, fear of judgment, or simply not knowing where to start.
But here’s the truth: talking about money is powerful. And when we open up about it, especially when it comes to saving, we unlock opportunities for growth, learning, and financial well-being.
I did some research for this blog, and was disappointed, yet oddly not surprised on some of the key facts and figures regarding this subject:
- Despite living in a world of digital banking, investing apps, and financial influencers, only 33% of adults globally are considered financially literate. That means over 3.5 billion people lack the basic knowledge to make informed financial decisions.
- A 2024 Intuit survey found that 55% of women wish they understood more about their finances but don’t know where to start.
- Generation Z (ages 18–24) has the lowest financial literacy rates, with only 36–42% considered financially literate.
Within my 20 years of working within the industry, it seems the only two constants have been A) change and B) increased complexity.
The good thing is that there are more tools to help you navigate the minefield that is personal finances, however in my humble opinion, nothing beats a good old natter with someone!
So why is talking about money matters important?
It breaks the ‘taboo’
Money has long been a taboo topic, especially in families, friendships, and even romantic relationships. But silence can lead to misinformation, poor decisions, and financial stress. Open conversations help normalise financial literacy and empower people to ask questions and seek help.
It encourages better habits
When we talk about savings goals – whether it’s building an emergency fund, saving for a home, or planning for retirement – we’re more likely to stay accountable. Sharing goals with others can motivate us to stick to a budget, avoid unnecessary spending, and celebrate progress.
It promotes financial literacy
Many people were never taught how to manage money. By talking about savings strategies, budgeting tools, or investment options, we create a culture of learning. These conversations can be especially impactful for younger generations who are just starting their financial journeys.
It strengthens relationships
Money is one of the top causes of stress in relationships. Being transparent about finances, income, debt and savings can build trust and help couples or families make informed decisions together. It also reduces the risk of financial surprises down the road.
It helps close the wealth gap
Open dialogue about money can shine a light on systemic inequalities and help people advocate for fair wages, access to financial services, and better financial education. Knowledge is power, and sharing it can lead to more equitable outcomes.
How to start the conversation
With friends: “Have you tried any budgeting apps that actually work?”
With family: “What’s one thing you wish you knew about money when you were younger?”
With a partner: “Can we set a savings goal together for the next 6 months?”
With yourself: “What are my financial priorities right now?”
Final thoughts…
Talking about money doesn’t have to be awkward or intimidating. In fact, the more we talk about it, the more confident and informed we become. Whether you’re just starting to save or you’re well on your way to financial independence, remember: you don’t have to do it alone.
Let’s normalise money conversations, because financial health is just as important as physical and mental health.
As for my dear first car, a new distributor cap and some spark plugs resulted in the car being none the worse for its unaccustomed dip in the river… albeit with a new aroma which could only be described as ‘pungent’.
Jon Sweeting – Product Manager (Savings)
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Industry
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FSCS protection limit increase
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) has increased the protection limit from £85,000 to £120,000 from 1st December 2025. This means if you hold deposits or savings with a building society, bank, credit union, or other UK-authorised financial firm, and they go out of business, FSCS can provide compensation up to £120,000 per eligible person, per authorised firm. Temporary high balance protection also applies for up to six months, covering up to £1.4 million for large one-off deposits from events like property sales, redundancy payments, or inheritances. We will be communicating this change to our members shortly and will revise our materials to reflect the increase in due course. For further information visit www.fscs.org.uk.
Community
OCT 14, 2025
Our latest volunteering
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Community
OCT 13, 2025
A spot of phishing
It's been reported that 28%* of the population were hybrid workers at the end of 2024. There are so many benefits that working from home offers for both employees and companies: more flexible hours, increased productivity, and just a better work-life balance - especially being able to sit in the sun in the garden at lunchtime! However, in looking at all these benefits, it's also important to understand what potential cyber security issues may arise from working from home. Also, as a business, we have taken important steps to improve the education of our colleagues regarding phishing and how it affects everyone both at home and in the office. So… what is phishing? 'Phishing' is when criminals use fake emails, phone calls, texts or websites to trick their victims. Most phishing scams will attempt to trick their victims into thinking they are a legitimate company or website with underhand tactics. Usually, these fake messages will try to make you click a link, visit a website or provide personal information. Opening these links may give your computer a virus or allow the criminal to access your private information. Phishing can come in many forms, whether they're emails pretending to be from companies that you're a customer of, spoof SMS messages pretending to be your bank, or even false communications from your workplace. With the rise of AI, these types of attacks are becoming more sophisticated than ever, and it's getting harder to discern what's real and what's not. We want to outline some methods that criminals use in phishing emails, as well as equip you with the knowledge of what to do if a work communication that you've received just doesn't feel right. Understanding your inbox Your inbox is the main channel that scammers will use to try and trick you into their scam. Below, we've listed some of the common phishing emails that criminals might utilise: Spam emails The most common (and annoying) type of unsolicited email that people receive. They are sent to large mailing lists and typically do not have anything to do with the recipient. They might be trying to sell you something or tell you that you've won a prize for example. While advertisement spam mail can seem harmless, any email from an unknown sender that asks you to click a link go to a website may be attempting to steal your personal data. It is always best to mark these kinds of emails as spam and then delete them. Deceptive emails These phishing emails have a much smaller mailing list, with the criminal pretending to be someone who is familiar to the recipient in some way, whether that be a company they are subscribed to, their bank or their place of work. A deceptive email might pretend to be from your internet provider informing you about a price increase. They might even use your location to pretend to be from a local council. As these emails are more targeted to a smaller group of people, they have a higher success rate for the criminal than spam phishing. Spear Phishing emails These are the most targeted types of phishing emails, and therefore the hardest to spot. They are specifically crafted for a handful of people or sometimes tailored for the individual to try and appear legitimate. Criminals may use things like your social media accounts to craft their attacks further, using names of people you know. Spear phishing emails might pretend to be your manager at work asking for your bank account details for payroll. When criminals target more senior members of a company or those who have IT access, this kind of spear phishing is called 'whaling'. Here's some useful points to look out for If a suspicious-looking email has more than one of these red flags, it's probably a phishing email. 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Links and attachments - Is there an incorrect link when you hover the cursor over it, or an unexpected attachment in the email? These links could take you to phishing websites, and the suspicious attachment might download malware onto your device. Too good to be true - Does what they're offering sound too good to be true? Unfortunately, it's unlikely someone will truly be selling expensive items for very low costs, or that you really are entitled to a large sum of money for no apparent reason. If it's too good to be true, it probably isn't true. Phishing websites Phishing websites are usually what phishing emails will be asking you to visit. These phishing websites 'spoof' legitimate webpages - they pretend to be a website you know and trust to trick you. Even if you are utilising an anti-virus software, these websites can give your devices malware or steal card details or login credentials. Here's some ways that you can identify fake websites: Suspicious domain names - In spoofing established websites, criminals will register their websites with names that are similar to well-known websites. These are usually only different by subtle spelling or letter changes. Some websites linked in emails will have nothing to do with the content of the emails. If the domain is different than the usual site, this is a red flag. Top Level domain - These come at the end of a URL; things like '.com,' '.co.uk' or '.org.uk'. Sometimes, a phishing website will be the same as the real page, with the only different being the top-level domain. Be wary of supposed large websites and companies using the less common top-level domains such as '.biz', '.cn' or '.casa'. http/https - At the beginning of the URLs of webpages that you are inputting sensitive information like card details or a phone number, the domain should be using 'https'. If it is only using 'http,' this is a major red flag. Website content - Official company websites will have sharp webpages, with tight writing and content. If there are low quality images and spelling mistakes on the website, it might be a scam. Fraud websites don't often have an 'About Us' or 'Contact Us' page, so look out for those as well. What should you do if you've been sent a phishing email? Ignore all attachments and links. Don't open any attachments or links from a source that you don't trust. Don't reply. Don't reply to scam emails, even just to say 'No,' as then the scammers will know your email is active and will send you more emails. Double-check before sending any details. If you get an unexpected email from your job, look up their contact information and give them a quick email or call them to check. Stay protected. Make sure that your anti-virus software is updated on your personal devices, and make sure you understand whatever anti-virus measures are in place on your work devices. Report the email. While not engaging with the email is the correct thing to do, reporting the email is also important in helping the scammer stop. Reporting Phishing If you are remote working, report the email to your employers IT services. This is especially important if the email has any sort of detail from your work, as it is more than likely that the criminal will try to target other employees as well. Even if you think you're being paranoid, it's better to be safe than sorry. Forward any suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. As of June 2025, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) states that there have been 43 million scams reported, which has resulted in 225,000 scams being removed across 405,000 URLs. Always report suspicious emails and sites. Whilst you might not have fallen for the scam, their next target might not be so lucky. Reporting these phishing scams not only protects you and your employer but might also help someone else too. If you think you've been a victim of phishing fraud, you should report it to Action Fraud, the UK's national fraud reporting centre. *The Office for National Statistics
Community
OCT 10, 2025
Doorstep scams
Doorstep scams occur when someone comes to your front door to either scam you out of your money, personal information or even to gain access to your home to steal valuable items. Scammers conducting this type of fraud can take many different forms including door-to-door sales, traders, charity collectors, utility officials or even a stranger in need of help. These scams can be challenging for victims to avoid as there is an added pressure when dealing with someone face-to-face. Here we explore the various types of doorstep scams and explain how you or a loved one can stay protected. Common forms of doorstep scams Bogus tradespeople From roofers, gardeners and plumbers, rogue traders can take various appearances. This scam occurs when fake tradespeople turn up at your front door and pretend to notice issues with your home. Often, they will offer to repair it within a very short amount of time and at a lower cost than usual. If you agree for them to complete the work, they will usually ask for upfront payment. After receiving payment, the scammer will usually disappear without completing the work and without trace. Door-to-door sales Another common type of doorstep scam involves fraudsters turning up at your door wanting to sell a product or a service. Often these sellers will be pushy and mention they have significant discounts, or a limited time offer available. A forceful style can often be an indicative sign of a scammer. Door-to-door sales are not illegal, but the seller must comply with consumer protection laws. If selling goods, a Pedlar's Certificate may be required.* Fake police or bank staff Be wary of anyone who knocks on your door claiming to be from the police or from your bank. These individuals will ask for personal bank details like your PIN number or to see your bank cards, which legitimate police or bank workers would never ask for. Utilities 'officials' Utilities 'officials' This type of doorstep scam involves individuals impersonating someone from your gas or electricity provider but without official proof of ID. After they have gained your trust, they will enter your property and pretend to take a reading. Once inside, they may steal valuable items or proceed to gather personal information that can be used to commit further fraud. Your gas or electricity provider should contact you prior to a visit and their workers will always provide official ID. Fake charity workers Playing on emotions is an approach used by scammers to get you to part with your money, especially from those who are pretending to be from a charity. Here, fraudsters will sell an emotive story and persuade you, sometimes intensely, to donate on the spot. Ensure those who say they are working on behalf of a charity can provide a registered charity number. If you would like to donate, you can always mention you would rather donate online instead. Strangers in need Some scammers pose as strangers in desperate need of help. Fake emergencies are crafted, and the individual may ask to enter your home to use your phone to call a family member, friend, a breakdown company or even to use your bathroom. Victims often feel sympathetic and will offer to help where they can. However, fraudsters can take advantage of those who are good natured and once in a property will look to steal valuable items. *A pedlar's certificate is a document authorising the bearer to sell goods or services door-to-door anywhere in the UK for up to 12 months. Common tactics used by doorstep scammers Pressure tactics: Individuals will insist you make a decision on the spot. This may be to purchase a service, donate or to provide personal information. Mention of neighbours: Often scammers will mention they are doing work for your neighbours or have spoken to them to try and gain your trust. Too good to be true offers: Services or products may be offered to you at a very low price which you feel is too good to turn down. Mysterious issues: Rogue traders will pretend there are issues with your home (for example with your roof) that requires urgent attention. Professional appearance: Often individuals will wear clothing to replicate uniforms, carry fake IDs, or use official-looking paperwork to convince you they are genuine. Emotional appeals: This particularly applies to those who are pretending they are working on behalf of a charity. Scammers will aim to exploit your emotions, using stories or urgent need to persuade you into donating money. Unsolicited visits: Normally fraudsters will appear at your door without any prior contact or warning. This is usually done to catch you off guard. Be wary of anyone that turns up at your door without contacting you in advance. Tips to protect yourself from a doorstep scam Don't be afraid to say no: Never feel like you have to say yes. If you feel uncomfortable, unsure or intimidated, trust your instinct. Don't feel embarrassed about turning someone away. Saying no to any offer, charity request, or service provider who knocks on your door is perfectly fine. Additionally, only let someone into your home if you're expecting them or they're a trusted friend, family member or professional. Take your time: Don't feel pressured into making quick decisions. Making a rushed decision may lead you to making an error of judgement. Anyone from a legitimate organisation will give you time to consider your options and won't pressure you into providing any sensitive information or making a payment. It is also worth always getting a second opinion on anything if you are unsure. Verify credentials: Always ask for identification - a genuine person won't mind. Often scammers will carry fake ID so ensure you verify the company they represent by phone or by checking online. Never use contact details the person at your door gives you. Never provide sensitive information: Some scammers may pretend to be from the police or your bank requesting information such as card details. Never disclose your PIN, bank details or give them your card. Legitimate individuals will never ask for this information via house calls. Put up signage: Place a "no cold callers" sign clearly visible on your front door or window. This can deter those who are wanting to show up at your door unexpectedly. Consider a smart doorbell: These allow you to speak to someone on your doorstep without opening the door. These can also be particularly useful if you have a loved one who is vulnerable and lives by themself. You can connect the camera to your own device, so you are notified whenever they have a caller. Be sceptical: If an offer seems too good to be true, it most likely is. Research and compare prices before agreeing to any deal, especially one provided by strangers who knock at your door.
Community
OCT 09, 2025
Our latest grants
Harpenden Hopper HBS Grant £4,000 The Harpenden Hopper is a community minibus service that has become much more than just a means of getting from A to B. The Hopper is a lifeline for many within Harpenden and a vehicle of inclusion and independence. Read more about our grant to Harpenden Hopper South Side Studios HBS Grant £3,000 South Side activate vacant and underused buildings in the centre of Leighton Buzzard, transforming them into accessible, affordable spaces for artists, micro-businesses, and community groups. Read more about our grant to South Side Studios Citizens Advice HBS Grant £4,930 Citizens Advice St Albans District is a local advice charity. The charity provide free advice and practical support that is confidential, impartial and independent to help people deal with a wide variety of problems. Read more about our grant to Citzens Advice
Community
SEP 22, 2025
What is UK Savings Week?
UK Savings Week 2025 UK Savings Week is all about getting people to think about savings, whether they’re frequent savers or first-timers. Even for those who are unable to save at the moment, UK Savings Week encourages us to take a closer look at our finances and understand what we’re seeing. This week, we urge you to join the savings conversation. Even with the cost-of-living crisis, understanding how savings operate is crucial. No matter what your circumstances are or where your finances are at, savings are key. Savings are really important. It doesn’t matter if they’re stored away for a rainy day, or you’re saving for a dream holiday, they have to be looked after. How much you’re saving, for how long and how much will vary from person to person. UK Savings Week is all about helping individuals save what they can, where they can. Even if it is a little bit here and there, once you’ve built the savings habit, they’ll start to grow. UK Savings Week aims to help everyone; they have tips and tricks for first-time savers, as well as advice to current savers to help make the most of their accounts. From understanding the financial jargon to picking the right savings account for your needs, UK Savings Week wants to help make a big financial difference to each saver. Take a look at the UK Savings Week page here.