Free money guidance service to launch

The Moneymadeclear service includes a helpline, website and face-to-face advice services, via the likes of the Citizens Advice Bureaux and Age Concern.

You will be able to talk with advisers about money worries, financial planning or get advice if you're getting a raw deal.

These are all issues handled via this site (see the Debt Help, Budget Planning and Reclaim £1,000s MSE guides).

It was announced in last December's Pre-Budget Report that the scheme would launch in April (see the Pre-Budget money guidance MSE News story).

A pilot for the service has been under way for a number of months in the north of England.

It is also part of the Government's plans to improve the financial awareness in the UK. For instance, personal finance will become an obligatory part of the National Curriculum within two years (see the Compulsory Personal Finance Education MSE News story).

Chancellor Alistair Darling says: "This service will provide much needed advice for one million people across the UK in the coming year alone."

While face-to-face advice will only be available nationwide from next month, the helpline (0300 500 5000) is currently staffed.

Further reading/Key Links

Money management: Teen Cash Class, Student MoneySaving