Editorial: Financial inclusion policy must add up

Economic wellbeing is, of course, one of the five Every Child Matter outcomes. But it can at times be the one for which professionals working with young people have the least regard. Since it belongs primarily in the realm of the personal, it can feel alien to the collaborative spirit of youth work, while finance is perceived as the dullest of subjects. This needn't be the case.

As we report this week, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) is stepping up its efforts to coach youth workers to act as role models in providing financial advice to young people (see p5). 'Money Mastery' seminars are being provided for free by youth charity Kikass. They build on pilot projects that have also involved the likes of Fairbridge and Citizens Advice. Financial matters can be made accessible if they are tied to activities relevant to young people, such as budgeting for a group trip. Tips on responsible spending, operating a bank account, managing household bills and providing a basic understanding of the tax system can be best delivered in informal group settings.