Teen cash worries
Thursday 12 April 2007
Money makes the world go round or so they say, but when it comes to cash issues, what's bugging you?
Four n2k readers tell us how they handle their pennies and pounds.
Just the job
For Emil, 17, the main worry he has with money is that he won't earn enough when he leaves school. "I'm staying on so that I have a better chance of earning a good wage," he tells us, "but I'm not sure I'll be able to cover my expenses."
Emil is planning a fully independent life once he leaves school. "I'd like to get my own flat and maybe start running a car but my mum and dad don't think I'm being realistic.
"I'm worried because I kind of know in my mind what sort of life I want but I'm not sure I'll be able to." Read more about managing your money in Directgov's Young People pages.
Pocket the difference
16 year old Dylan found it hard when all his mates got pocket money and he didn't. "I felt really left out but didn't want to hassle my mum about it because she's on her own. I thought I'd try and get a job to earn some extra cash while I'm at school."
While taking a swim at the local sports centre, Dylan not only landed himself a weekend job but also a potential career. "At the moment I'm just on reception but the job has really inspired me and I'd like to work in sports coaching when I'm older I think."
Student finance sorted
Kerrie, who's 18 is all set to go to university this year and admits she was worried about the cost. "I was freaking out when I read about paying for accommodation and books and stuff," she explains.
Her mind was set at ease when she did some more research. "I looked into getting student finance online and it was very reassuring.
You get loads of help when you're starting out and can apply for loans which you don't have to pay back until you're earning so there's no need to worry while you're studying." Take a look at more student finance info on Directgov.
Super organised
Sixteen-year-old Joy doesn't worry about cash at all, she's been storing up her spends for years. "I've had a savings account since I was about four," she says.
"I hardly ever dip into it and put all my money from Christmas and birthdays in there. I have a part-time job too and half of my wages goes in there. I'm not sure what I'm going to use it for yet but I know that when I need it, it's there waiting for me."
