What to read right now…
Professionals from working class backgrounds earn as much as £6,291 less a year than those from more privileged backgrounds according to a new report by the Social Mobility Foundation.
Needless to say, women from working class backgrounds are even more disadvantaged. A good time then to resurface this piece from a couple of weeks ago on how women can plan for financial freedom.
A first time buyer? You may end up paying over £3,000 in extra fees.
Here’s something different – the rise of financial coaches who offer guidance rather than advice. They are also unregulated, however…
Meanwhile, a great introduction to how grandparents can financially support their grandchildren.
The deal that’s a steal…
Well, the Black Friday sale offers have already started to drop.
I’ve rounded up some of the top deals below – I get a commission if you shop through any of the astrixed links, which of course helps to support Money Talk.
It’s also worth giving my guide to making the most of the Black Friday sales a read before you start splashing the cash.
- Disney* – up to 30% off some of their most popular toys
- Royal Doulton* – 30% all that fancy china
- Neal’s Yard Remedies* – up to 35%
- Nutribullet* – up to 40% off blenders (they’re noisy but really good)
- Converse* – 40% off AllStars trainers and more
- Menkind* – up to 50% gifts, advent calendars and all sorts
- LookFantastic* – up to 50% off beauty products
- Mountain Warehouse* – at 50% off budget-friendly outdoor gear
- Berghaus* – up to 50% off high end outdoor gear
- Blacks* – up to 50% off outdoor gear plus 15% extra off selected lines with code BF15
- The Oodie* – 60% off all kids Oodies (they’re super cosy, oversized hoodies in case you didn’t know)
- Jones Bootmaker* – up to 60% off shoes and boots
And an actual freebie…
RSPB is currently offering free entry to its 21 nature reserves around the UK to those aged between 16 and 24.
All you need to do is show proof of age when you visit to gain free entry.
The campaign, which will initially last two years, is designed to encourage young people to engage with nature.
The offer doesn’t include parking though, so that’s worth bearing in mind if you’re driving.
If you only do one thing…
Check your Oyster card balance if you’re a Londoner.
Since Transport for London (TfL) enabled contactless payment across its network, Oyster cards have become increasingly redundant.
But you might still have credit on these cards, which you can cash out.
And if your card was issued before February 2020, you might also be able to get a refund on the deposit paid on the card.
You can do this by visiting one of the ticketing offices, using the ticket machines or by calling TfL on 0343 222 1234.
