YMCA Money Matters workshop report – March 2025

It is with great joy that we share an update on the Money Matters workshop held on Wednesday, 25 March at YMCA.

Around six young people attended the session. At first, they appeared somewhat shy and unsure of what to expect; however, with some warm fries and cheeseburgers from McDonald’s, along with a few engaging group activities, they gradually began to relax. As the session progressed, they opened up and started interacting with one another—not only about the workshop itself, but also about their own life experiences (see our photograph, below).

The workshop proved particularly valuable, as it offered a range of ways to understand the importance of money management, the skills required, and the potential consequences of poor financial decisions. These topics were explored through a PowerPoint presentation, an oral discussion, and an interactive card game.

During the game, participants worked in two teams to select a profession and salary for their character, and then manage their finances in a way that would enable them to live comfortably. The outcomes were especially interesting, as the teams made quite different choices. One team opted for a Marketing Manager with a highest possible salary of £2,000, while the other chose a bus driver earning approximately £1,300. What initially seemed like a straightforward task quickly developed into a lively discussion, as participants debated their priorities. Some chose to spend more on clothing and limit eating out, while others prioritised a social life and were less concerned about clothing—reflecting real-life decisions.

When asked what they found most challenging about managing money, the young people shared that online banking can feel overwhelming. They also highlighted difficulties with opening bank accounts and understanding how to save effectively. We hope that this workshop has helped them feel more confident in navigating the financial aspects of daily life.

Overall, it was clear that the activity encouraged participants to think critically, engage with one another, and enjoy the experience. It also highlighted the importance of such workshops, and we hope that even more young people will be able to join us this year and receive the support they need.

With thanks to the Y Centre, Perth, and Citizens’ Advice Scotland.