Financial inclusion and capability have become increasingly important priorities across Government in recent years, reflecting a need for individual financial responsibility, particularly in times of high debt levels and low savings. The ability of people to access financial services at a cost where individuals are effectively able to manage their money (financial inclusion) and possess the knowledge and skills to understand their financial circumstances and necessary actions (financial capability) directly influence the ability of people to plan for the future and cope with financial pressures. Research and evaluation in financial inclusion and capability is a key area for ECOTEC, having worked with organisations such as the Financial Services Authority, Legal Services Commission, Citizens Advice and Department for Work and Pensions. Our finance-related work includes evaluation of a number of initiatives and pilots related to financial capability to support saving and alleviate poverty. In addition, we have conducted a number of studies examining wider financial and saving behaviour, for example in relation to pensions.
kate.lowe@ecotec.com
0113 290 4100
Case Study: Citizens Advice – Evaluation of Financial Skills for Life Pilot
Citizens Advice, in partnership with Prudential Plc, delivered a programme in England and Wales to test out new methods of delivering financial literacy training in the community. The target groups included ex offenders, people aged 50+, asylum seekers and young people. ECOTEC was commissioned to evaluate the programme as a whole, and to assess the effectiveness of each of the nine pilots. This comprised qualitative research - in-depth research visits to each pilot to interview CAB staff, partners and beneficiaries on a face-to-face basis; and quantitative research - analysis of case outputs, cost effectiveness, and the development of a series of 'unit cost' measures for delivering financial capability training. ECOTEC also provided ongoing support to the pilots for self-evaluation. The final report informed the mainstreaming of the pilots, and made recommendations for their development.
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