UK adults would rather talk about politics, religion or serious health issues than money, our new research finds
This Talk Money Week, our new research reveals that ongoing stigma around talking about money is potentially plunging more people into debt.
Posted November 3, 2025
This Talk Money Week, our new research reveals that ongoing stigma around talking about money is potentially plunging more people into debt.
Not knowing how to help is a major contributor to people’s hesitancy to discuss finances with their loved ones. Nearly half (44%) of adults admitted they wouldn’t know how to help a loved one who was experiencing money worries, with only a third (33%) saying that they’d feel very comfortable discussing a loved one’s financial situation with them in the first place.
People’s reluctance to discuss their own financial situation is also laid bare in the data. Around two in five people said they would be very comfortable discussing religion (45%), politics (42%) and even serious health issues (39%) with their loved ones. In contrast, just over one in three are very comfortable discussing salaries (35%) or their own financial situation (34%).
The research also found people are feeling pressure to spend money they don’t have to maintain appearances or lifestyles. Almost a third of people (31%) said they sometimes felt ashamed or stressed due to their own finances holding them back – a figure rising to 45% among adults under 35. Meanwhile, one in ten (10%) – equivalent to 5.6 million people - admitted they’ve spent money they cannot afford just to keep up with friends, a figure which also rises among younger adults (19%).
These findings come as cost-of-living pressures continue to affect households across the UK, with one in five adults (21%) saying they’ve missed out on social occasions due to money worries. As these pressures seem set to continue, seeking help or reaching out to others who might be struggling is more important than ever. Talking about money can help people make better financial decisions, build financial resilience, enjoy stronger personal relationships and feel less stressed.
Sentho Pembleton, a specialist adviser from our National Debtline service, explains how starting the conversation is the first step:
“Talking about money can be difficult, particularly if someone is feeling stressed about it. However, there are some simple steps you can take to support loved ones who might be struggling.
- Choose the right time and place: Find a quiet moment where you can chat in private without being interrupted.
- Be kind and don’t judge them: Start by expressing your care and worry.
- Listen more than you speak: Give someone space to share and don’t rush to give advice.
- Offer reassurance: Let them know they’re not alone and that many people face money problems. Assure them that it’s okay to get help and that solutions are available.
“These steps could help someone feel confident enough to seek free help from a debt advice charity like National Debtline. We know that being in debt can be hard and have been helping people take back control of their finances for over 30 years.”
Among people helped by our National Debtline service, four in five saw their debts reduce or stabilise and three in four reported a positive impact on their emotional and mental wellbeing – showing the positive impact that seeking advice can have.
Sentho continues, “This Talk Money Week, National Debtline is encouraging everyone to start the conversation – because talking about money is the first step toward facing your worries and finding a solution.”
