Survey results

The results of the third year from the MoneySense Research Panel (2009) have been published! A sample of 10,307 young people aged 12-19 from schools and colleges across England, Scotland and Wales were surveyed.

The results reveal that the recession has had a positive impact on the attitudes, beliefs and behaviours of young people. Compared to 12 months ago, they are now significantly more considered in how they plan, budget, spend and save.

• Over two thirds of the young people surveyed say their money management skills have improved during the recession.
• 84% of young people claimed to keep track of their money in some way.
• In 2009, young people are more aware of borrowing considerations

The findings also show that RBS's financial education programme, MoneySense for Schools, has an impact on young people's ability to translate their attitudes and beliefs into positive behaviours. Young people receiving MoneySense lessons are:

• more likely to keep track of their money
• less worried about money in general because of their increased understanding
• more likely to have saved most of their money
• more likely to discuss money matters at home - money conversations are no longer taboo.

RBS will use these findings to inform the MoneySense for Schools programme to ensure it adapts to the changing needs of young people, helping them to leave school with the skills they need to manage their money effectively. It is also hoped that other organisations involved in financial capability will use the MoneySense Research Panel to inform their own education programmes.

Download the latest report now [PDF 819KB]

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You can also access the last two years' findings.

The 2008 report highlighted that young people were becoming increasingly aware of the challenging economic times and preparing for their financial futures in ways that their parents never did.

Download the 2008 report [PDF 1.38MB]

The 2007 report identified the benefits of financial education in providing a 'reality check' for the future.

Download the 2007 report [PDF 765KB]

We will conduct the fourth year's survey (between September and December 2010). These results will be published in early 2011.