Citizens Advice Ipswich highlights free tools to manage money

Why it matters: Citizens Advice Ipswich says even the smallest actions can help people feel more informed, confident and in control of their money and finances.

The details: Talk Money Week runs from Monday, 2 November to Friday, 6 November. This year's theme is "It All Counts", focusing on realistic, manageable actions.

As part of the week, Citizens Advice Ipswich is running a social media campaign raising awareness of the different tools, guides and support available to people.

The free tools: MaPS runs MoneyHelper, a free and impartial guidance service, along with a range of tools:

• Budget planner and Money Midlife MOT: Both help people carry out a check on their finances.
• Pension Wise: Over 50s can book a free appointment with pension specialists to help them understand their options.
• MoneyHelper: Free, impartial and government-backed guidance on topics such as savings, pensions, everyday money and homes, with the opportunity to speak to an expert via WhatsApp, phone, email or live chat.

MaPS is also encouraging organisations to signpost the Breathing Space debt respite scheme, which gives eligible people respite from their debts, with a separate process for people in mental health crisis care.

Small steps that count: Citizens Advice Ipswich is asking everyone to take actions of all sizes to feel more in control of their finances, such as:

• Speaking to a lender before repayments become a problem
• Checking whether you are entitled to benefits you have not claimed
• Putting your first pound into a pension
• Starting a conversation about a money worry with someone you trust

MaPS also suggests checking how much you have in your pension or comparing energy prices to see if a switch could cut costs.

What they're saying: Carl Morgan, money advice team leader at Citizens Advice Ipswich, said: "Talking about money can be uncomfortable at first, but beginning this process and engaging with the tools and support that exists is the first step to regaining confidence with your finances, it really does all count."

Oliver Morley, chief executive at MaPS, said: "Actions to improve your finances don't have to be big or complicated to make a difference."

He added: "Whether it's simply talking through a money worry with a friend, putting a little aside when you can or shopping around to get a better deal on your bills, every step can help."

By the numbers: In 2025, there were more than 600 Talk Money Week events across the UK, with more than 260 organisations taking part. Supporters last year included major banks, government departments, NHS trusts and charities such as Citizens Advice and National Debtline.

For context: MaPS is an arm's-length body sponsored by the Department for Work and Pensions and funded by levies on the financial services industry and pension schemes.

The bottom line: Whether it is a budget check, a pension appointment or simply a conversation with someone you trust, Citizens Advice Ipswich and MaPS say free tools and support are available.

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