A new National Consumer Agency (NCA ) money skills for life programme providing free independent personal finance education to employees in their workplace was launched this week by Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton.
The programme consists of accredited volunteer financial experts delivering a one-hour presentation to employees in workplaces across the country on how better to manage their personal finances. Employees are also provided with an easy-to-use financial education guide, containing useful information and tools to help them make informed personal financial decisions. The programme is described as being “suitable for those in employment but who may be trying to manage on less money and possibly have some debts and financial worries about the future.”
The launch comes following a successful pilot of the programme, which saw it delivered in 53 workplaces across Ireland.
Launching the programme, Minister Bruton said: “In these difficult times, it is crucial for consumers to have access to good information and make good choices about their personal finances. The NCA has developed an excellent programme which will be delivered directly to consumers for free. By delivering this programme in the workplace, financial education will be made available to a broad group of people. The experience of employees and employers has been highly positive to date, and many people have made real financial savings as a result of the programme. I urge people to get involved.”
Topics covered include: Sorting out your money; saving and investing; protecting your family and your belongings; borrowing money; dealing with debt; planning for later life; and making a complaint. The information provided in the presentations is supported by the NCA’s consumer website, www.nca.ie and consumer help-line. Employers can log on to www.financialeducation.ie for more information and to book a presentation.
