A new financial year, a fresh chance to tackle debt and get saving

  • 13 million people claim not to be able to save anything at all
  • Two thirds of us claim we cannot save any more than we do

 

With consumer debt nearing 1 trillion and stark government warnings about our lack of financial provision for the future, the start of a new financial year is an ideal time to reassess your financial priorities.  Recent research from IFA Promotion, the organisation promoting the benefits of independent financial advice, shows that two thirds of UK adults claim they cant afford to save more than they currently do, and 13 million (27%) people claim they cant afford to save anything at all.

 

IFA Promotions research also shows that nearly two thirds (64%) of people view themselves more as savers than as borrowers, yet 55% say they are unable to curb unnecessary spending to save more.  This reality gap suggests that when it comes to budgeting most of us just bury our heads in the sand.  In addition:

 

  • 17% of adults readily admit they would borrow to purchase something they knew they couldnt afford.
  • 15% of those who say they could save more say they intend to in the future.

 

David Elms, Chief Executive of IFA Promotion, says, It seems were unable to deny ourselves purchases even when we know we cant afford them. Less than one in ten people saved up for last years biggest purchase, a quarter happily put it on credit and even more eroded savings that were intended for the long term.

 

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He continued, Debt is no longer a last resort, its become an easy option, while at the same time millions are putting their long-term saving provision on the never never.  But there is plenty of help out there people in serous debt should see a debt counsellor, whilst those who simply need advice on how to budget better should consider seeing an independent financial adviser.

 

To help consumers take control of their spending habits, IFA Promotion has produced a dedicated guide. Join the Savings Revolution looks at why we need to save and how you can budget to save more, along with options where to put any extra money.  You can also obtain details of local independent financial advisers to talk through the most suitable savings options for you. Call 0800 085 3250 or visit www.unbiased.co.uk/getsaving

 

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For further information, please contact:

David Elms, CEO                             Chloe Merriman / Richard Winder

IFA Promotion                                   Lansons Communications

020 7833 3131                                 020 7294 3681

david@ifap.org                                 chloem@lansons.com / richardw@lansons.com

 

For expert comment or case studies from over 200 media-friendly IFAs, journalists should call IFA Promotions Media Services hotline on 020 7294 3682 or search online in Media Services at www.unbiased.co.uk

 

1.  Independent Financial Adviser Promotion

IFA Promotion was established in 1989 to promote the value and accessibility of independent financial advice to the public.  It represents over 10,000 firms of independent financial advisers across the UK and is sponsored by 26 leading financial institutions. In 2003, over 330,000 consumers and businesses used IFA Promotion to find local independent financial advice.

 

IFA Promotion believes Independent financial advice should be:

 

        Affordable.  The option to take independent financial advice should be available, by right, to all - not just the wealthiest in society.

 

        Convenient.  IFAs should be available in the location of the consumers choice, wherever they live in the UK.

 

        Transparent.  It must be clearly transparent to consumers who is able to offer independent financial advice and who is not.

2.      Independent Financial Adviser Promotions sponsors

AXA

National Savings & Investments

Bright Grey

Norwich Union Life

BUPA

Old Mutual Asset Managers

Canada Life

Prudential

Childrens Mutual

Scottish Equitable Plc

Clerical Medical Investment Group

Scottish Life

Eagle Star

Scottish Mutual Assurance Plc

Friends Provident

Scottish Provident

GE Life

Scottish Widows Plc

GMAC Residential Funding

Selestia

INVESCO Fund Managers Ltd

Standard Life Assurance Company

Legal & General

Skandia UK Group

Mortgage Express

Zurich Life Assurance Company

 

 

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