Helping empower communities

Helping people feel more confident about managing money, avoiding scams, and planning for the future, were the themes of a Financial Literacy Event held in Tipperary recently.

The event at the Talbot Hotel, Clonmel, was supported by AIB in partnership with MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting Service), Adult Literacy for Life (ALL), Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB), and the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA). Various community organisations and financial services also attended to provide valuable information about what is available locally.

The event, titled 'Managing and Keeping Your Money Safe', forms part of a nationwide programme designed to make financial information more accessible and easier to understand. The initiative follows successful pilot events in Cork and is being delivered in communities across Ireland as part of a wider effort to improve financial wellbeing.

“These are honest conversations, helpful guidance, and we have a shared commitment to making financial knowledge accessible to all,” said Gaye O’Connell of AIB.

Participants heard practical advice from a panel of experts, that included representatives from An Garda Síochána, MABS, Tipperary ETB, and AIB. The discussion focused on everyday topics such as budgeting, avoiding scams, protecting personal finances, and knowing where to find support when needed.

Panellists highlighted that financial literacy is about more than understanding numbers. It is about giving people the knowledge and confidence to understand information, make informed decisions, plan, and build a more secure future for themselves and their families.

“Learning is for life. It keeps on all through life and needs to be practical to help us live our lives more successfully. Let’s keep learning,” said Deborah Ryan from Tipperary ETB.

Attendees received information packs containing guides, brochures and details of courses on budgeting, information about money management, and how to protect against fraud.

They also had opportunities to meet exhibitors and local support organisations, ask questions and learn about services available in their communities. The aim of the event was to strengthen financial resilience and improve financial wellbeing for people of all ages and backgrounds.