A Barclays-backed programme to help young people budget better got a very civil civic reception in Oldham.

Both the Mayor and Youth Mayor of the Greater Manchester town rolled-into Rathbone to discuss all things fiscal – and present certificates to several learners who passed the pioneering “Bank On It” programme.

The course encompassed learning everything from how to open a current account to avoiding credit card fraud. Speaking at the presentation, Rathbone Director Fiona King said: “None of us was born knowing what an ISA or a fixed-rate or variable mortgage is. We need the experts to help us – so that we might understand finances and avoid money worries.

Pictured are: (Back row, left to right) Paul O’Brien (Barclays), Chris Hardington and Emna Akrem. (Front row) Victoria Clark, Michaela Curley, The Mayor of Oldham Councillor Jim McArdle and The Youth Mayor of Oldham Mohammed Adil.

The Bank On It programme has been like a successful savings account. It has been expertly managed and attracted plenty of interest. But best of all, because our young people have invested plenty of their time and effort into it – their balance in terms of skills and qualifications has grown.”

To their credit, around 20 learners finished the eight week course. Some of those young people are facing severe financial hardship at present; supporting families on benefits or gaining an education on just £30 Educational Maintenance Allowance per week.

Rachel Herbinson, Community Relations Manager (North West) at Barclays, added: “Most young people agree money is important. But many feel that they are going into the world without the skills and confidence needed to manage increasingly complex financial challenges. These can be everyday challenges like sticking to a budget and keeping their money safe or understanding the financial implications of life choices they are making about education, training or work.”