News

Financial strain on young Britons: Citizens Advice steps in

Published

2 years ago

February 13, 2024

IN an attempt to confront the growing financial pressures facing young people across the UK, Citizens Advice has unveiled alarming statistics that shed light on the scale of the issue. The charity, dedicated to offering support and advice, has reported a significant increase in the number of young individuals seeking financial guidance. Alarmingly, the figures have doubled since 2019, with the charity aiding 66,000 individuals under the age of 25 in the past year alone. This surge highlights the acute challenges posed by the current economic climate, including the cost-of-living crisis that continues to exacerbate the financial burdens on younger demographics.

A concerning aspect of the findings is that one in five young adults reaching out to Citizens Advice are seeking help with debt, a testament to the mounting financial pressures they face. This is compounded by a broader reluctance among this age group to discuss financial matters, with new research indicating that 90% of those under 25 feel uncomfortable broaching the subject. This discomfort outstrips their willingness to discuss other sensitive topics such as health issues, politics, or religion, underscoring a deep-rooted stigma around money conversations among young Britons.

In a creative and thought-provoking initiative, Citizens Advice has positioned a 6-metre-tall inflatable elephant in Manchester city centre. Scheduled for display on Saturday, 17 February, this installation symbolises the ‘elephant in the room’ – the widespread reluctance to talk about financial issues. Crafted by India Buxton, a Fine Art student from the University of Salford, the elephant’s design was chosen through a competition organised by Citizens Advice. Buxton’s colourful, money-themed artwork seeks to encourage open discussions about money matters, aiming to alleviate the stigma and promote financial literacy among young people.

This initiative comes at a time when young adults are particularly vulnerable to the economic downturn, grappling with soaring living costs, escalating private rents, and high inflation rates. The charity’s efforts to engage with the public and offer direct support in Manchester are part of a broader mission to provide practical advice and emotional support to those struggling with financial issues.

Personal stories, like that of Jack from Derby, illustrate the tangible impact of these financial struggles. Jack’s narrative of living “pay cheque to pay cheque” and his reluctance to discuss his financial situation highlight the broader challenges faced by many young adults in similar positions. The testimony underscores the urgent need for accessible financial advice and support systems to help young people navigate their financial challenges more effectively.

Citizens Advice remains committed to breaking down barriers to financial discussions, providing a wealth of resources and support to those in need. Their message is clear: talking about money, while daunting, is a crucial first step towards managing financial challenges. The charity’s efforts to demystify financial conversations and offer practical support aim to empower young Britons to take control of their financial wellbeing.

For those seeking guidance, Citizens Advice offers an expert guide on starting conversations about money, available on their website. This resource is part of the charity’s broader initiative to support young people in navigating their financial journeys with confidence and clarity.

News

Reform reveals west Wales candidates for Senedd battle

Published

6 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Monkton councillor tops Pembrokeshire list as party confirms Carmarthenshire names and includes Haverfordwest councillor in unwinnable Swansea spot

REFORM UK has unveiled its full list of candidates for the 2026 Senedd election, setting out its challenge across west Wales including Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

The party has named Susan Claire Archibald, a sitting councillor for Monkton on Pembroke Town Council, as its lead candidate for the Ceredigion Preseli, Mid and South Pembrokeshire regional list.

Speaking to The Herald, Archibald said: “I am honoured to represent Reform UK and Wales.” She added that a fuller statement outlining her priorities would be released in due course.

The remaining candidates on the Pembrokeshire regional list are Paul Marr, a former prison officer, Michael Allen, Elisa Randall, Peter John and Bernard Holton.

Carmarthenshire candidates named

Reform has also confirmed its list for the Caerfyrddin and Llanelli region, with Gareth Beer placed first, followed by Carmelo Colasanto, Sarah Edwards, Christopher Brooke, Alan Cole and Michelle Beer.

The announcement forms part of a nationwide rollout of candidates as the party seeks to establish itself as a credible electoral force ahead of the 2026 vote.

Thorley listed in Swansea region

Among the names included elsewhere is Scott Thorley, a Haverfordwest-based councillor and the first Reform representative elected to Pembrokeshire County Council.

Thorley appears on the party’s list for the Gower and Swansea West region, where he is placed sixth.

Under the Senedd’s proportional representation system, candidates placed lower on regional lists are significantly less likely to be elected, meaning his position is widely viewed as a paper candidacy to complete the slate.

Election framing

Reform Wales leader Dan Thomas said the party was offering voters a stark political choice.

He said: “After a hundred years of failure, Labour are finished in Wales. The choice at this election is what comes next — common sense and a fresh start with Reform, or independence by stealth with Plaid Cymru.”

The Herald understands that further announcements, including candidate profiles and policy details, are expected in the coming weeks as the campaign begins to take shape.

Crime

Man bailed after serious assault in Fishguard town centre

Published

7 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in Fishguard that has left a man in hospital.

The incident happened on Main Street at around 11:00pm on Saturday (Mar 21), when the victim was reportedly punched, sustaining head injuries. He remains in hospital receiving treatment.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) and has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Dyfed-Powys Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have information that could assist the investigation, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting reference: 26*227686.

Information can be provided online via the Dyfed-Powys Police website, by emailing [email protected], by calling 101, or by sending a direct message on social media.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

News

Childcare funding boost announced in Wales

Published

8 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hourly rate to rise as costs increase

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has confirmed an increase in the hourly rate paid to childcare providers under its Childcare Offer, following a review of funding levels.

The Minister for Children and Social Care, DAWN BOWDEN MS, announced that the rate will rise to £6.67 per hour from April 6, 2026. The increase of 4.18% comes after feedback from childcare providers and sector data gathered during 2025.

The Welsh Government said the change is designed to help providers cope with rising costs, including increases to the National Living Wage.

The Herald understands the review drew on responses from the Childcare Offer’s Annual Survey, as well as information from Care Inspectorate Wales’ Self-Assessment of Service Statement (SASS).

The move follows a policy shift announced last year to review the rate annually, rather than every three years, in a bid to make funding more responsive to pressures facing the sector.

As part of the update, the maximum charge for meals will also increase by 4.18%, which ministers say is intended to balance affordability for both providers and parents.

Dawn Boden said the Welsh Government remains committed to supporting the long-term sustainability of childcare services, adding that officials will continue working with the sector to explore further improvements.