Managing money is something we all have to learn about. Everyone has a certain amount of money coming in, and things they have to spend it on, like rent, food, utility bills (gas, electricity etc), fares and other essentials. It's also a good idea to think about building up some savings.
Making ends meet can be difficult, especially if you're on a low income.
MoneyMoneyMoney is a good starting point to find out more about how to manage your money.
Wages - When you're earning, the money you receive (your 'take home' or 'net' pay) will have had national insurance and income tax payments deducted first.
Student finance - As a student in higher education you'll get financial support (loans or, in some cases, grants or bursaries) - but you'll need to repay loans when you graduate and are earning over a certain amount.
Debt - Is a growing problem for many people, and not only those with low incomes. (If you're under 18 you're not technically liable for any debts that you might incur as you need someone over 18 to act as a guarantor – your debts become their responsibility.)
It's very easy now to get a store card or 'credit', but you can run up debts if you overspend on it.
Getting help
Citizens’ Advice Bureaux and benefits advice centres often have debt counsellors and money advisers see Adviceguide for local centre addresses.
National Debtline has a Freephone number 0808 808 4000 that provides free confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems.
For help with gambling try gamcare tel: 0808 802 0133.
You can use the library in your Connexions Centre too as it has information for you to read or take away. You could also go to Weblinx for more useful websites.