Older Britons to embarrassed to ask for financial help

UK over 50s too embarrassed to ask for financial help

In the news

29 June 2009 15:40

Research from independent charity Turn2us has revealed that millions of people in the UK are too embarrassed to ask for help as they face financial crisis. This embarrassment is preventing people from accessing money that they desperately need. But support is out there. Indeed, around £14 billion of state aid goes unclaimed each year and over 3,300 charities exist that give grants to people in need. They cover many eventualities from paying utility bills to providing clothing allowances.

The research also showed a distinct lack of awareness of where to turn for support, with 51% of people not realising you could turn to a charity.

Turn2us - which was founded and is funded by Elizabeth Finn Care - provides a free, confidential, online service (www.turn2us.org.uk) designed to help individuals quickly and easily find the benefits, tax credits or charity grants available to them – all in one place.

Watch how Mike, a semi-retired publican sought help from Turn2us after finding himself unemployed and unable to cope financially. He received a grant from the License Trade Charity to help him with essential car repairs.

Embarrassed by financial struggles
Recent research shows that many people are too embarrassed to ask for help if they are struggling financially. Find out how Mike used the Turn2us website to do a confidential charity search and locate a grant to help with everyday living costs.

Research from independent charity Turn2us has revealed that millions of people in the UK are too embarrassed to ask for help as they face financial crisis. This embarrassment is preventing people from accessing money that they desperately need. But support is out there. Indeed, around £14 billion of state aid goes unclaimed each year and over 3,300 charities exist that give grants to people in need. They cover many eventualities from paying utility bills to providing clothing allowances.

Lack of support awareness
The research also showed a distinct lack of awareness of where to turn for support, with 51% of people not realising you could turn to a charity.

Turn2us - which was founded and is funded by Elizabeth Finn Care - provides a free, confidential, online service (www.turn2us.org.uk) designed to help individuals quickly and easily find the benefits, tax credits or charity grants available to them – all in one place.

Watch how Mike, a semi-retired publican sought help from Turn2us after finding himself unemployed and unable to cope financially. He received a grant from the License Trade Charity to help him with essential car repairs.