The young people from 1625 Independent People have agreed to train to become Barclays Money Skills ‘champions’ as part of a pioneering money management project for 16 to 25 year olds.  The Barclays Money Skills ‘champions’ project is designed to build the financial skills of 5,000 young people who are not in education, employment or training, and equip them with the tools to share this information with their peer group. 

The young people involved receive two days of comprehensive training, as well as resources and ongoing support to help them throughout the project.  Through this model the network of 5,000 nationwide ‘champions’ will reach up to 100,000 of their friends and peers.  During his  visit, Jack Lopresti MP, spoke to Michael Fautley one of the ‘champions’ and gained an insight into the informal education techniques champions will be using to pass on their knowledge to their peers to improve their financial capability.

Jack Lopresti MP, said: “It is fantastic to see these young people taking control of their money, and building the skills they need to ensure a secure financial future.  It is even more impressive that they are committed to helping their peers by sharing this information with other young people in similar situations.”

Barclays Money Skills ‘champion’, Michael Fautley, explained what it means to have this role:“I never seemed to have any money left at the end of the month and I knew that I needed to make some changes with how I was managing – but I didn’t know where to start!  By becoming a ‘champion’ I have really begun to get myself sorted. I’m feeling in control for the first time, and happy to share what I have learnt with my peers.”

UK Youth are working with the National Youth Agency and a consortium of four other youth and information charities to deliver the Barclays Money Skills ‘champions’ project.