Half of young adults find money talk awkward, research finds

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 14:09 · Archive

Half of those aged 18-34 find discussing money awkward, according to research commissioned by The Co-operative Bank.

A survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by The Co-operative Bank, as part of its Money Natters campaign, found that half of those aged 18-34 find discussing finances awkward. Three in 10 young people would rather talk about politics, religion or family drama instead. Thirty-six per cent would not broach the topic of money at the dinner table, considering it 'bad manners'. One in three worry about being judged over their financial situation, whilst 15% admitted they would rather visit the dentist or clean their oven than discuss money.

Savings, salary and debt were the topics young adults found most uncomfortable to discuss. Many avoided talking about debt entirely, while others struggled to admit they could not afford something. Regional analysis showed residents in the East Midlands were least comfortable discussing money, at 14%, followed by those in the Northwest and Yorkshire & the Humber, both at 12%.

Kat Robinson, head of everyday banking at The Co-operative Bank, said: 'Money is still one subject many of us would rather leave off the menu.' Clare Seal, financial coach and Money Natters campaign ambassador, said: 'Many of us grow up believing it's impolite to talk about money, but staying silent can often leave us feeling more anxious and less confident.'

How it is being reported

• Three in 10 young adults brand money talk ‘bad manners’ - losing out on savingsYoung adults would rather talk about politics, religion and family drama instead of money - but experts suggest this could be doing more harm than good.Daily Express · 14 Oct, 13:32
• Half of young adults find money talk 'awkward' - missing chance to boost savingsHalf of young adults find money chats so awkward they’d rather clean the oven, but experts suggest opening up could help grow savings.The Mirror · 14 Oct, 12:00

In this story: The Co-operative Bank · East Midlands · Northwest · Yorkshire & the Humber

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