We’re asking you to encourage the people you employ, support or serve to do one thing that could make a positive difference to their financial wellbeing. It could be as simple as checking their credit score, talking to a child about pocket money or using one of the free tools or calculators on the MoneyHelper website.
MoneyHelper https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en/everyday-money/credit/struggling-to-pay-your-gas-or-electricity-bill
(It gives suggestions of who to turn to and how to speak to your fuel supplier if you need help).
There is also the Priority Service register that anyone who has special circumstances can discuss with their supplier. https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households/getting-extra-help-priority-services-register
Please get in touch for more information on how we can support you with getting your organisation involved in Talk Money Week this year by emailing talkmoneyweek@maps.org.uk.
Money Saving Expert – Free Ways to Learn Skills at home
Why not check these affordable ways to learn:
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/deals-hunter/2020/03/free-ways-to-learn-new-skills-at-home/
HSBC Financial Wellbeing – Always on Webinars
Daily free webinars that provide you with the knowledge and tools to achieve your financial goals, no matter who you bank with.
Every Monday 12.30-1.15pm – Starting to Save – click here to book
Every Tuesday 11-11.45am – A Beginners Guide to investing – click here to book
Every Wed 9.30am-10.30am – Making the Most of Your Money – click here to book
Every Thur 9.30-10-.30am -Pension Essentials – Preparing for a comfortable retirement – click here to book
Every Fri 10am-10.45am – Creating a Budget – click here to book
Helping Clients in debt – Recognising Early signs and supporting them before crisis – Citizens Advice free training
I’m getting in touch to invite you to a free training session that may be useful for you and your team: Helping People in Problem Debt: Recognising Early Signs and Supporting Them Before Crisis.
Many people experience financial pressure long before they recognise they are in problem debt. This free, 90 minute session is designed to give frontline staff, support workers, housing teams, carers, community groups, and partner organisations the skills and confidence to spot the signs early and help clients access the right support.
The session will cover:
- What financial difficulty and problem debt look like in everyday life
- The difference between priority and non-priority debts
- Behavioural and financial red flags to look out for
- How the debt spiral develops and its impact on wellbeing
- How to have sensitive, non-judgemental conversations
- Effective signposting and safe referral pathways
- Tools and resources to help clients stabilise their situation
- Real examples and case studies based on local experience
You will leave with practical strategies you can apply immediately, a clearer understanding of client vulnerabilities, and increased confidence in supporting people before their situation reaches crisis point.
Who is this for?
Anyone who works with clients or service users, including housing teams, carers, charity staff, community organisations, volunteers, support agencies, and health professionals.
If you would like to join us, you can book your place here:
Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues or partner organisations who may find the session helpful.
Foodbanks
Food banks play a vital role in supporting local residents by providing reliable access to nutritious food during times of financial hardship. They help reduce food insecurity, ensuring that individuals and families do not have to choose between essential needs like housing, healthcare, and meals. Beyond immediate relief, food banks strengthen community resilience by offering support services, partnering with local organisations, and fostering a sense of solidarity among neighbours. Here is a list of Food Banks available across Essex
Where Are The Essex Food Banks? – Essex Portal
Free food and food banks | Disability charity Scope UK
Gift/Food Donations
Donating gifts at Christmas is a meaningful way to share kindness and ensure that everyone can feel included during the festive season. It can help bring joy to individuals and families who may be facing difficult times, reminding them that others care. Giving also strengthens communities by encouraging empathy, generosity, and a spirit of togetherness. In many ways, these small acts of kindness can make the season brighter for everyone. If you or your organisation would like to make donations here are some Appeals:
The Kids Inspire Christmas Appeal is for children and families in need — Kids Inspire
Braintree Tesco launches Christmas toy donation scheme | Braintree and Witham Times
Christmas Present Appeal | The Salvation Army
How you can donate gifts and toys to children this Christmas | Brentwood Live
Published: 30 November 2025
