Commsave Credit Union is using National Financial Awareness Day (14th August) to urge people to break the money taboo as new research shows many households still feel years away from recovering financially.

A recent financial resilience report from Royal London suggests that one in four UK adults believe it will take them three years or more to feel back on track after rising living costs. For Commsave, the findings underline why talking openly about money – and accessing practical help – matters now more than ever.

For Commsave, this year’s message goes beyond pounds and pence. Normalising honest conversations about how money affects people’s wellbeing, not just their bank balance, sits at the centre of its approach to Financial Awareness Day.

Matt Goulding, Chief Executive of Commsave Credit Union, said: “Money still feels like a difficult topic for many people, but silence often makes things feel worse, not better. National Financial Awareness Day is a chance to normalise asking for help and to remind people they don’t have to face financial pressure alone.

“Our purpose is to support long-term financial wellbeing through safe savings, responsible credit and financial education – and that starts with an open conversation. Whether that’s with family, a colleague or a trusted adviser, the first step is often the hardest but also the most important.”

Commsave’s own member data points to the impact of that approach. More than 70% of members say their confidence in managing money has improved since joining Commsave, a change the credit union attributes to combining practical products with accessible financial education.

Members and the wider community can access free resources through the Commsave Educates app, alongside workshops, webinars and one-to-one support. The credit union also works with schools across Northamptonshire to help young people build good money habits early.

With more than 43,000 members nationwide, Commsave offers safe savings, affordable credit and financial education, alongside community initiatives such as its Community Fund, which has distributed more than £150,000 to local charities and good causes.

To mark National Financial Awareness Day, Commsave is sharing some practical starting points for building financial resilience, along with where to turn if things feel overwhelming:

• Start the conversation. Staying silent about money worries often makes them feel bigger. Talking to family, friends or a trusted adviser is usually the first step towards feeling more in control, and can uncover options you hadn’t considered.
• Check what’s going out each month. Cancelling unused subscriptions or reviewing direct debits can free up money without any real sacrifice – many people are surprised how much unused subscriptions add up to over a year.
• Build a savings habit, however small. Regular, modest saving creates a buffer for the unexpected and can ease day-to-day pressure over time. Even setting aside a small amount each payday can make a noticeable difference within a few months.
• Know where to turn for free advice. Organisations such as Citizens Advice, StepChange Debt Charity and National Debtline offer free, confidential guidance on budgeting, debt and benefits, and can help people access support they may not realise they’re entitled to. Commsave also funds a partnership with Citizens Advice, giving members access to free, confidential advice on debt, housing, benefits and the cost of living. Speak to our team to find out more.
• Speak to your credit union, bank or lender early. Most providers can offer more flexibility and support before a situation becomes a crisis than after, including payment plans or temporary breathing space.

For more information about Commsave’s financial education resources, visit www.commsave.co.uk/education