FINANCES

KEY offers advice and help for any kind of financial problems, such as debts, arrears, council tax, rent and much more.

The Independent Living Workshops also provide a good grounding in how to handle household finances.

Some good general advice is to keep a budget of how much money you have coming in and how much you have going out (on things like rent, food and bills), so that you can easily keep track of your money. Once you have your budget, try to stick to it.

If you think you might be entitled to any benefits, then it is important to get your claim in as soon as possible, so that you can take advantage of your full entitlement. If you don't, you could lose out.

It is also a good idea to keep all your records (bills, receipts, letters, payment books, etc) in one place, such as a file or folder. That way they are easily to hand should you need them.

Finally always open your post as soon as it arrives, try not to leave it until later. It is very easy to forget to pay bills, but its harder to pay any charges which companies may apply for late payment.

For more detailed information try the external links below:

DirectGov - Is a national government site which has detailed information on benefits, tax and money issues.

Advice Guide - A site run by the Citizens Advice Bureau provides detailed information on Money for young people and consumer rights.

Connexions Direct - A national advice site for young people, also has a detailed section on money matters.

Connexions Cumbria - A general site for 13 to 19 year olds based in Cumbria and has some good information about handling your money.

DfES Young Persons Gateway - Is a general government information site for students and young people.