This week was Talk Money Week, which aims to get people talking more openly about finances and seeking advice and support if necessary. The week is also an opportunity to encourage tenants and staff alike to save money. Here’s some of the highlights from the week:
Hey Good Cooking
With the rising cost of living hitting us all hard just now, here are some budget-busting meal ideas:
Energy Advice
Even with an increase in cost of living-related news, we know it can be hard to talk about money. Latest research shows that over half of UK adults don’t feel confident in making decisions about financial products and services. People find it difficult to open up about money worries, and don’t access the expert help available to them to find their way forward.
But the Hillcrest Energy Advice Team (HEAT) are here to help, we along with our colleagues in the L&D Team have put together the below guide to give you more information about different energy discounts, schemes, and other top tips.
Read here: https://sway.office.com/RlVFiJaDfOR2U31b?ref=Link&loc=play
Money Management
We all have money worries and research shows one in three of us say that thinking about our financial situation makes us worried. Unsurprisingly, those of us who lost income due to the pandemic or the current cost of living crisis are more likely to have lost confidence in our ability to manage money. There are simple steps you can take to address uncertainties and improve your financial wellbeing. Talking about money with friends, family, children — or experts if necessary — can help you feel more confident in managing your money and give you greater financial resilience to deal with future income changes or life events that affect your finances. Research has shown that almost a third of parents and carers don’t talk to their kids openly about money, missing out on an opportunity to help with children’s vital early understanding. Here are some sites with good information and tools to help you look after your money:
Income maximisation
You may know that Hillcrest has a Tenancy Sustainment Service to help tenants maximise their income and manage their money, but did you know this free confidential service is also available for staff? The team can check to see if you are entitled to any benefits or financial support. If you would like to have a chat with one of the advisers about your situation please email tss@hillcrest.org.uk with your contact details, or call 0300 123 2640.