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Better budgeting and 'financial literacy'
Many individuals and families living in poverty become adept at making a little money go a long way. They are, however, often excluded from many financial services others take for granted. We have supported programmes of 'financial literacy' and believe this type of education is valuable. We also support the aims of the Credit Union movement in opening up affordable financial services to people otherwise excluded from them. For further information see these external sites -
History of Credit Unions in the UK
Lambeth Savings and Credit Union
Personal Finance Education Group
Money Advice
Money advice - including help with restructuring debt payments - is available to Lambeth residents from a number of sources. See here for details. Additionally, these national may be able to assist -
Gas/electricity by meter - extra costs
Many energy suppliers charge more to people who use a meter, and less to customers able to pay by direct debit. As those in poverty often cannot open bank accounts, they are obliged to use meters and incur higher energy costs. Some energy providers do not charge higher rates for metered supplies. Try the EquiGas/EquiPower link below.
Affordable insurance
Many insurers discriminate against people on the basis of postcode. This can badly affect poorer people. Some landlords, such as housing associations and other social landlords, can sometimes provide 'insurance with rent'.
Help with court appearances on debt matters
Support for people who have been taken to court for non-payment of fines or arrears is available from the Zacchaeus 2000 Trust. Contact the Trust on 020 8376 5455 or email them.
Please contact us with suggestions for additional material, or with your own experiences.
If you find yourself
getting into
unmanageable debt
seek advice without delay
Lambeth sources of advice
for people in debt