Living with debt can be draining and often emotionally exhausting, but worrying about our finances is the everyday reality for too many. So, why don’t we talk about it more?

Our understanding of debt is often influenced by our upbringing and it can be said that in our society debt is ‘encouraged’; many are readily given access to credit, whether it is affordable or not and we are exposed daily to marketing messages that tie our happiness to what we own – encouraging many of us to buy more, perhaps when we don’t really need to.

At the same time, not everyone knows how to manage their personal finances, or were ever taught how or why to save, what a credit card, loan or a mortgage is – or how they work. But being in debt is more common than we might realise: in 2017 it was established that 3.3 million of us are in the red.

The link between debt, money worries and stress, lower productivity and absence is also now increasingly being recognised by employers and we feel it is important that we support your financial wellbeing.

To do this, in partnership with the city’s Financial Inclusion Team, November will see the launch of a series of financial wellbeing events, tailored for NHS staff with impartial advice about:

• Debt management and loan sharks
• Saving money and credit unions
• Utilities and fuel advice
• Payroll-deducted financial products
• Birmingham City Council contractors such as Wates
• Charities and other organisations that can support you

One in five workers said they would value broader financial guidance, debt management and counselling if they were in financial hardship – that is potentially 4,000 of you.

With Christmas on the way, we know that worries and anxiety about money increases, but even if you’re not worried but would like some broader advice or guidance, book onto one of the Talk Money – financial wellbeing sessions today, or visit the partner stalls on the day.

Talks and stalls are open to all NHS or local authority staff. Stalls will be available between 10:00 – 15:00 and you are not required to book to access these.

For more information on the sessions available across UHB, please see the 'Links' section.

If you have any questions or queries, please email Communications.

Email: Communications@uhb.nhs.uk