In a youth work session, supported living programme or family transition meeting, money can be a hard topic to make clear and practical. Aimed at support workers and youth workers, this money skills PDF helps young people with learning disabilities explore spending, saving, budgeting, bills, credit and everyday choices in an accessible, activity-based way.
Financial capability sits at the centre of the workbook, with activities designed for teenagers and young adults with learning disabilities who are preparing for more independence. It looks at real money decisions, including where money comes from, what it pays for, and how people can make safer choices when they are unsure.
The contents show a structured toolkit rather than a single worksheet. It begins with background information, planning guidance, training tips, advice on being a good supporter, and a starter quiz called “How are you with money?” to help workers understand what a young person already knows about handling money.
Practical activities cover attitudes to money, wants and needs, essential and non-essential spending, budgeting skills, saving, credit and debt, and the costs of independent living. There are also everyday living tasks such as exploring the cost of breakfast, making food shopping cheaper, and planning a meal for family or friends.
Support workers, youth workers, learning disability practitioners, transition teams, personal advisers and family carers could use the exercises in one-to-one sessions or small groups. The approach suits young people who benefit from clear language, visual prompts, repetition, discussion, supported decision-making and real-life practice rather than abstract financial education.
Adapted from On Your Own 2 Feet by Fairbridge, the material was produced by the Money Advice Service with input from learning disability organisations and practitioners.
