Experian partners with local citizens advice to tackle financial stress... with a little help from our four legged friends

23/05/2023 01:00 (UTC)

London, 23 May, 2023: New data from Experian finds that the average Briton will wait until they have debt totalling 7,835 before seeking help, with one fifth of the nation (20%) saying they wouldnt look for any support at all if they owed money.

To support people who are finding money conversations difficult, Experian is partnering with Citizens Advice Nottingham & District to launch The Credit Paws Caf. As new research shows that most of the nation (68%) find dogs comforting and 65% say that pets make them feel less stressed, stress-busting canines will be on hand to help create a more relaxing atmosphere for visitors who would like to seek expert financial support.

When asked why support wasnt sought out, a fifth (20%) admitted talking about finances makes them feel stressed and almost the same proportion (19%) said that money conversations make them feel anxious.

Over one third (36%) of people worry about their personal finances every day, and over the past year 37% of people have had to use their savings. A further 29% have been worried by the fact they didnt have any savings to fall back on at all, highlighting the importance of support intervention for so many people across the UK before they go into debt.

Attendees at Nottinghams pup-up caf on May 23rd will be able to talk in private with experts from Experian and Citizens Advice Nottingham & District, in the comfort of furry company. The caf is the latest initiative from Experians financial education programme, which aims to break the money taboo and help people have helpful, positive conversations about their finances at every stage of life.

James Jones, Head of Consumer Affairs at Experian, says: The economic landscape means that more people are finding themselves in increasingly challenging financial situations. Whilst money is often a taboo subject, being in over 7,000 worth of debt could be a significant burden, so its more important than ever that people feel they can have honest conversations about it and get the support they need. This can be daunting, so were launching The Credit Paws Caf to provide a helping paw for those taking that first step in speaking about their money concerns and regaining control over their finances.

Donna Cumberlidge, Chief Officer, Citizens Advice Nottingham & District, says: Its vital that people seek help with their finances if they have challenges they cant solve alone, so its great to see The Credit Paws Caf helping people feel comfortable enough to start those conversations.

While it can seem daunting, Id urge anyone who is worried about money to open up to an expert so they can take the first step toward feeling more in control of their finances. If youre looking to make more informed financial decisions reach out to your local Citizens Advice for free, confidential services all year round.

The rising cost of living has increased most peoples worries about money (69%). People admitted they would only seek help with their finances if they were unable to pay for essential household goods (40%), while 40% would only reach out for help if they couldnt pay their bills for the month. Just 9% said they would look for money tips if they were rejected from a mortgage loan application, and the same number again if a credit card or loan was unavailable to them.

When asked why support wasnt sought out when they were worrying about finances, nearly one in four (24%) said they were embarrassed about being in debt or seen to be struggling and 21% have a fear of being judged.

Worryingly, 15% of Brits said that they were always taught that matters of money should be kept to themselves, and one in ten dont have anyone in their life that they feel comfortable talking to on the subject. Almost the same proportion (9%) said that they dont believe theres a way to resolve their financial concerns.

For those unable to attend the event but keen to seek advice, more information about how to contact Citizens Advice for free, independent advice can be found at www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Notes to editors:

Nationally representative research carried out by Opinium of 2,000 UK adults between 21st April 25th April 2023.

Media contact:

Brands2Life for Experian

Tel: 0207 592 1200 / Email:[email protected]

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