Leeds City Council launches host of events for financial wellbeing week

Leeds City Council is hosting a week of free online sessions this month offering guidance and support to help with the current cost of living crisis.

Leeds Financial Wellbeing Week, which begins on Monday 12 June, is aimed at anyone who works in the city with helpful ways of improving their financial wellbeing.

The council is working with the Money and Pensions Service and other partners to run the online webinars, which workers can sign up and attend for free to hear guidance on subjects including mortgage options, keeping energy costs down, tackling gambling issues and handling financial difficulties.

Key sessions on offer during the week include:

Monday 12 June – 1-1.45pm – how to become money fit
During this session Jenny Wright, of the Money and Pensions Service, will be present to take the audience through the four main stages of achieving financial wellbeing.

Wednesday 14 June – 10.00-10.45am – all about mortgages
This 45-minute session will be look at different mortgage types. This session will also cover both the pros and cons of renting and buying, to help those unsure reach an informed decision of what is the best option for them.

Wednesday 14 June – 2.30-3.30pm – reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint
High energy bills are a real concern for many in the city, keeping homes warm at an affordable price has been a real challenge over winter which has often resulted in difficult choices having to be made by households and families to make ends meet.

Simon Kilshaw, from the organisation Green Doctor, will run the session with tips that can reduce your energy usage and reduce bills.

Friday 16 June – 10.00-11.30am – financial impacts on mental health
This webinar session will include – how money impacts our mental health, ways to manage any stress and anxiety we feel, practical methods of making money management easier and managing therapeutic and impulsive spending.

To see the list of all the events being held during the week and to sign up to attend, please visit the website.

Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council executive member for communities, said: “With all of us being impacted by the rising cost of living, it’s more important than ever that we are providing people with constructive information on how they can improve their financial wellbeing. From guidance on mortgages to reducing energy costs, we hope that the week’s free webinar sessions will be helpful for all those attending.

“For anyone who might be struggling, also visit the council’s Cost of Living webpage for information on the range of support available in Leeds.”

Jenny Wright, regional partnership manager for Yorkshire and the Humber at the Money and Pensions Service, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Leeds City Council and other partners to help those living and working here improve their financial wellbeing. Feeling in control of your finances can take a huge weight off your mind by helping you make more informed choices and feel less anxious or stressed, so we hope that the week’s free sessions will be helpful.

“If you find you need more help and guidance, our free MoneyHelper service can help you find your way forward so get in touch with us today at moneyhelper.org.uk.”