Perennial, the charity for people in horticulture, is helping those working in the sector to take control of their finances and combat their money worries in the run-up to Christmas. For those finding it difficult to pay their bills or struggling with debt, Perennial’s friendly team is available on the helpline (0800 093 8543) and ready to support people.
The charity is encouraging everyone, regardless of their financial position, to visit the website (perennial.org.uk/budgetingtool) and use the tools available to help them manage their money for Christmas and beyond. The easy-to-use budgeting tool will help people to find out how they are using their money, check their financial situation and receive useful hints and tips.
Perennial also offers a range of financial support from short-term help towards the cost of food, heating and clothing to those that may go through a period of illness, or families who have experienced a recent bereavement.
Christmas is a time of celebration but for many it brings added financial pressure.
Wendy Tozer, Debt Advice Manager at Perennial, comments: “Most of the people we help require financial help and support of some kind and we know it is a huge contributing factor to stress and other mental health issues. But financial wellbeing is so much more than managing debt and we want everyone working in horticulture to have the confidence to take control of their money.
“Using the budgeting tool is a great first step towards understanding personal finances and achieving a good balance between income and spending. By being money-aware and creating a budget, we hope that those who are struggling financially will then be encouraged to spend wisely this Christmas. The tool also gives lots of tips for increasing income and reducing expenditure, giving people the means to make a change for themselves or find out where to go for further help.”
Perennial’s online budgeting tool is available via the Perennial website and can be used on a desktop computer, tablet or smartphone. It is very easy to use and does not require any technical or financial expertise.
All information provided is completely confidential and will not be shared with anyone else. People can use it anonymously if they wish or they can register to allow them to revisit their budget at any time and see how their planned changes are working.
If you, or someone you know, needs help contact Perennial on 0800 093 8543 or email services@perennial.org.uk.