The primary aim of DebtCred is to prepare schools students for university life or employment by educating about the sensible use of credit, personal financial management and the hazards of over indebtedness.

The Basic Skills Agency has reported poor financial literacy skills among 23% of adults. Research by Professor Elaine Kempson at Bristol University indicates that up to 10% of adults will borrow either without giving any thought to their ability to repay or knowing that they will struggle to make the repayments. Education will begin to improve these poor skill levels, restrain the imprudent use of credit and help reduce over indebtedness and the misery it produces. Financial literacy, more than ever, is an important life skill and individuals need the necessary education and resources to help take responsibility for their financial affairs.

There is an increasing need for advice and guidance to young people considering higher education but uncertain of the consequences of Government proposals for university funding and intimidated by the prospect of graduate debt. There is enormous scope for helping A-Level students understand that debt incurred at university can be minimised and managed, both before and after graduation.

DebtCred's aim is to help young people understand the financial implications of what they wish to do after leaving school and empower them accordingly. To this end, DebtCred is committed to developing critical financial education material for young people in their final year(s) at school that.

DebtCred’s Financial Education Material

• Can be presented face-to-face and as literature – but also through other media

• Can be incorporated into a school’s routine timetable – economic wellbeing, The Enterprise Agenda, PSHE, Citizenship and Functional Maths

• Is accessible to a wide range of academic ability (from high achievers to young people with special needs)

• Will empower young people whatever their immediate ambition

• Is culturally aware

• Is socially relevant (embracing potential high achievers as well as young people who may find themselves financially excluded or living on an inadequate income)

  Click here to view our materials and resources

The world of finance is changing rapidly. We are offered financial products and services by a much wider range of providers than in the past. Banks, building societies, credit companies, credit unions, supermarkets and high street retailers all feature.

A key element in developing economic wellbeing is for young people to be able experience and understand the role of different players in the financial world and the relevance to their lives.

DebtCred’s purpose can be simply stated as raising awareness of financial issues, provoking thought, influencing behaviour and avoiding problems.

Credit Action is a registered charity, number 1106941 and a company limited by guarantee registered in England and wales number 5244075.

Registered Office: Credit Action, Lynton House, 7-12 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9LT