Let’s Talk About Money: Supporting Financial Wellbeing in Construction

This week is Talk Money Week – a national awareness campaign led by the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) to encourage people to open up about their finances. The idea is simple but powerful: by talking more about money, we can all make better financial decisions, improve our wellbeing, and reduce stress around one of life’s biggest challenges.

In an industry like construction, where pay structures can vary and work can be seasonal or project-based, financial wellbeing is particularly important. Whether you’re managing irregular income, dealing with the rising cost of living, or simply trying to plan ahead, having open conversations and access to support can make a big difference.

Why Talking About Money Matters

Money worries can affect anyone, at any level. Research from MaPS shows that nearly 9 in 10 UK adults don’t find it easy to talk about money. Yet, those who do are more likely to make informed decisions, feel in control, and experience less financial stress.

Within our sector, financial pressure is often linked with mental health challenges – a concern the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity continues to highlight. The charity offers vital, free and confidential support to anyone working in construction and their families, including help with financial wellbeing, debt management, and emergency grants for those in crisis.

You can learn more or access support here: Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity

Small Steps to Improve Financial Wellbeing

Here are a few practical steps to take during Talk Money Week – and beyond:

1. Start the conversation. Whether it’s with a partner, friend, or colleague, opening up about finances can help you feel less isolated and more supported.
2. Track your spending. Knowing where your money goes each week can reveal areas to save or budget differently.
3. Plan for downtime. In construction, contracts and site schedules can fluctuate. Setting aside a small buffer for quieter periods can reduce stress later.
4. Seek free guidance. Organisations like the MoneyHelper service and the Lighthouse Charity provide confidential advice on budgeting, debt, and benefits.
5. Look after your wellbeing. Financial worries can impact sleep, focus, and relationships. If you’re struggling, reach out early for support.

Building a Healthier Financial Culture

As a company, we recognise that supporting our workforce goes beyond pay. Promoting financial awareness, encouraging open conversation, and signposting to the right support networks are all part of creating a healthier, more resilient workplace.

“Financial planning is essential to avoiding financial stress in life. I firmly believe in understanding both my income and expenses in order to save effectively while meeting my commitments. In an industry that fluctuates with projects and shifts, this becomes even more important, as it’s necessary to account for seasonal variations and prepare for challenging periods by building a financial reserve through savings. Financial planning doesn’t need to be complicated, even a simple plan can help you identify your disposable income, guide your decision-making, and ultimately reduce financial stress.”  — Wayne Bruce, Finance Director, McGinley Support Services

So, this Talk Money Week, let’s make the time to check in – with ourselves and with each other. A five-minute chat could make a bigger difference than you think.

Find out more about Talk Money Week