Last Updated on: 1st November 2025, 04:21 pm
Money Wellness study finds discomfort around money conversations remains common across UK households.
According to new research from Money Wellness, 22% of UK adults earning between £35,000 and £54,999 struggle to discuss financial issues, almost twice the proportion (12%) seen among those earning £17,000 to £34,999.
The results indicate that speaking openly about financial difficulties is still a challenge for households across the income spectrum, despite increasing focus on financial education and wellbeing.
The research also reveals that financial pressure remains significant, with nearly one in five saying they are barely coping financially, and 34% stating they are only just managing.
In terms of seeking help, 62% of respondents said they would choose to talk to family members about money worries, while only 15% would approach a professional such as a bank or adviser. Four percent reported they would not discuss financial problems with anyone.
Sebrina McCullough, Director of External Relations at Money Wellness, said: “Talking about money is awkward – sometimes more awkward than sex, politics, or your feelings. But staying quiet can be costly, emotionally and financially.
“This Talk Money Week, we’re urging everyone to break the silence. Talk to a friend, a family member, or a professional. Don’t let fear or embarrassment cost you your peace of mind.”
Nearly half at 48% would prefer to talk about religion or politics, 30% would be more comfortable discussing their feelings, and 22% said they would even rather talk about their weight or sex life.
A separate ongoing customer survey by Money Wellness found that many adults were not taught financial skills early in life.
Among respondents, 94% said that money management was not covered at school, and 80% believe earlier financial education would have helped them manage money more effectively.
The most common topics people wished they had learned include budgeting (77%), understanding credit and debt (68%), saving (62%), and developing a positive money mindset (51%).
The financial wellbeing provider recommends that individuals begin addressing financial conversations, starting small by discussing everyday budgeting or savings goals with a trusted person, which can make money matters easier to approach.
The organisation also advises choosing calm settings for such discussions, sharing personal experiences, and making conversations about money a regular part of life.
For families, involving children early in simple budgeting activities can help to build confidence and positive attitudes toward money.
Confidential support is available for those experiencing serious financial difficulties. Free advice can be accessed through services such as Money Wellness or bank financial support teams and free tools such as a
budgeting calculator are available.
Acting early, according to the organisation, can help individuals regain control of their finances and reduce stress.
Money Wellness also shared the story of Des, a customer who came to the organisation with £25,000 of debt, including a problematic business loan.
Through support and a debt management plan, he was able to increase his income by £140 per month.
“Looking back, some struggles could have been avoided if I’d known the basics,” Des said. “Mortgages, loans—it should be taught. Money is one of the main things in life.”
Talk Money Week 2025, 3–7 November, aims to encourage people across the UK to open up about their finances and build greater financial confidence.
