06/10/2025
Consumer Council Launches New Money Advice Campaign
The Consumer Council has launched a new campaign, 'Make your finances fitter', in response to high levels of public anxiety over the cost of living, with 90% of people in Northern Ireland reporting concerns about everyday living essentials.
The campaign is designed to raise awareness about taking control of personal finances and maximising monthly budgets. It promotes a range of online tools that consumers can use as a "financial check-up" to get an overview of their monthly spending and budget.
Ivan Minnis, Head of Financial Services at the Consumer Council, said the organisation wants to "equip consumers with the right information and tools to manage and maximise their money and get their finances into shape."
Tools and Advice
The campaign encourages consumers to take immediate action, such as comparing the cost of utility bills and shopping around for better prices. The Council's website signposts to helpful information on:
• Budgeting
• Switching energy providers
• Food costs
• Social tariffs
• Reviewing banking services
Free online tools are available, including the Electricity Price Checker, Gas Price Checker, Home Heating Oil Price Checker, Fuel Price Checker, and the Appliance Cost Checker.
Mr Minnis stressed that the campaign also directs consumers to free help and support for those with deeper money issues. This includes advice on debt, borrowing, and illegal lending.
He added that worrying about money can negatively impact mental health, and getting free debt advice can make a significant difference. "If you are worried about your finances, getting advice on what your options are, will help you to make the right decision on the best way forward," he said.
For further information please visit www.consumercouncil.org.uk/fitter-finances
The campaign is designed to raise awareness about taking control of personal finances and maximising monthly budgets. It promotes a range of online tools that consumers can use as a "financial check-up" to get an overview of their monthly spending and budget.
Ivan Minnis, Head of Financial Services at the Consumer Council, said the organisation wants to "equip consumers with the right information and tools to manage and maximise their money and get their finances into shape."
Tools and Advice
The campaign encourages consumers to take immediate action, such as comparing the cost of utility bills and shopping around for better prices. The Council's website signposts to helpful information on:
• Budgeting
• Switching energy providers
• Food costs
• Social tariffs
• Reviewing banking services
Free online tools are available, including the Electricity Price Checker, Gas Price Checker, Home Heating Oil Price Checker, Fuel Price Checker, and the Appliance Cost Checker.
Mr Minnis stressed that the campaign also directs consumers to free help and support for those with deeper money issues. This includes advice on debt, borrowing, and illegal lending.
He added that worrying about money can negatively impact mental health, and getting free debt advice can make a significant difference. "If you are worried about your finances, getting advice on what your options are, will help you to make the right decision on the best way forward," he said.
For further information please visit www.consumercouncil.org.uk/fitter-finances
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mainly dry and cloudy this morning, some patchy rain in the northwest. This afternoon will be cloudy with some light and patchy rain spreading southeast for a time. Maximum temperature 17 °C.Tonight:Clear periods across the north at first this evening. Otherwise a cloudy evening and night with outbreaks of rain spreading from the southwest. Light winds. Minimum temperature 7 °C.