Moneyactive Volunteers Celebrated

Citizens Advice and Nationwide Building Society have hosted a celebration lunch to acknowledge the contribution of volunteers to their Moneyactive project. Moneyactive is a joint project between the two organisations aimed at improving financial education.

Derek Alcorn, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice said:

“Citizens Advice in Northern Ireland has been delighted to be part of this project aimed at helping people make better use of their money. Household incomes are getting squeezed, especially as benefits are being hit, bills are rising fast and unemployment is a stark reality for many. Aimed at financially marginalised citizens, the project has reached a wide range including young people, ex-offenders, social housing tenants, women’s groups, schools and mental health groups.

In Northern Ireland alone, support from Nationwide has enabled this project to reach over 2, 000 people. The number of people who were confident dealing with banks, bills and savings doubled to 69%. A welcome 40% of participants decided to open a savings account after participating. In Northern Ireland the training was led by a dedicated team of 87 volunteers whose efforts we commend.”

“Citizens Advice is particularly delighted that one in three of our volunteer trainers went on to employment, training or education after leaving the project. An impressive 28% of volunteers secured work, no doubt in part due to the skills they developed on the project.”