Talk Money Week – Council Supports Financial Wellbeing Campaign

With many households continuing to face financial pressures from rising living costs, unexpected bills and economic uncertainty, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is encouraging residents to take positive steps towards improving their financial wellbeing as part of the Money and Pensions Service’s Talk Money Week, taking place from 2-6 November.

Talk Money Week is a national campaign designed to make conversations about money more open, honest and accessible. Whether it is budgeting for everyday expenses, planning for the future, managing debt, or simply seeking advice, the campaign highlights how even the smallest action can make a meaningful difference.

This year’s theme, ‘It All Counts’, reminds people that improving financial wellbeing doesn’t require a major lifestyle change. Checking if you’re entitled to benefits, putting a few pounds aside in savings, reviewing household bills, speaking to a lender before payments become a concern, or opening up about a money worry with someone you trust can all help build confidence and control over your finances.

As part of the campaign, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is supporting Talk Money Week’s largest online event on Tuesday 3 November, from 10am to 4pm. The free virtual event will bring together experts from across the financial, public and community sectors to provide trusted advice, practical guidance and information on:

• Budgeting and managing household bills
• Energy saving and support schemes
• Scams and fraud prevention
• Debt advice and financial support
• Benefits and entitlements
• Food banks and community support
• Pension planning and preparing for the future

Whether you are looking for ways to stretch your household budget further, understand what support may be available to you, or plan ahead for the future, there is something for everyone.

To join this free and practical event, please click here: https://bit.ly/4xYEBKD

Alongside the online event, participating organisations will promote awareness of key financial topics, including regular saving, responsible use of credit, retirement planning, debt management, and supporting children to develop healthy money habits from an early age.

Talk Money Week is supported by a wide range of organisations, including major banks, government departments, Health Trusts and charities such as Advice NI and Money and Mental Health. Together, they are helping to ensure people can access the information and support they need to make informed financial decisions.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle commented:

“There is lots of support available locally for people who are worrying about money. You are not alone, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about.

We are pleased to fund Community Advice Fermanagh and Omagh Independent Advice Services that offers free, independent and confidential advice to the local community, including support for people living with debt.

As a visible show of support for Talk Money Week and its important message, Council buildings will be illuminated in blue on Monday 2 November, helping to raise awareness of the campaign and encouraging people to start conversations about money and financial wellbeing.

I would encourage everyone to check out the sessions taking place during the online event on Tuesday 3 November. Whether you join for the full day or drop into the sessions that matter most to you, you’ll gain practical tips and advice to help make your money go further. Because when it comes to money, it all counts.

More information is available at www.fermanaghomagh.com/costofliving.”

Oliver Morley, Chief Executive at the Money and Pensions Service, says:

“Actions to improve your finances don’t have to be big or complicated to make a difference. That’s why, as part of our annual Talk Money Week campaign, we’re reminding people that when it comes to money, it all counts.

Whether it’s simply talking through a money worry with a friend, putting a little aside when you can or shopping around to get a better deal on your bills, every step can help.

Small actions matter and however simple they may seem, this is the chance for everyone to feel more confident and in control of their money.”

For more information on Talk Money Week visit www.maps.org.uk/talk-money-week