Speak to your personal adviser for help managing your money. We will support you with:
- making a budget
- money management advice
- opening a bank account and give you advice on savings
- accessing your Junior ISA or Child Trust Fund, if you have one (a fund of money set aside by the government and the council)
- setting up home allowance of up to £3000
- accessing food banks
If you have been in care for 1 year or more, you can access the Stepladder of Achievement programme. This includes money management courses, and the chance to earn up to £750 before you turn 18 years of age.
Free courses to help with managing money
Essex residents aged 19 and over can access maths courses through a scheme called Multiply. This includes free taster sessions, courses and formal qualifications in maths.
Find out more about Multiply courses on the Essex Opportunities website
How to budget
Watch a video on how to budget for beginners from the Money to the Masses YouTube channel:
Money management when you are neurodivergent
Find money management tips for neurodivergent people on the Unmasked website
Further support
You can also get help from:
- The Care Leavers Foundation, who can provide modest grants to care leavers aged 18 to 29
- The Rees Foundation, who can offer financial help in some cases
- Citizens Advice, who provide free confidential advice about personal and consumer issues