Three in ten young people would rather discuss politics, religion, or family drama than talk about money, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults found that 36% of young adults avoid bringing up money at the dinner table because they consider it 'bad manners'.
The poll showed that discussing money leaves young adults feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable. Half of those aged 18-34 find financial conversations awkward, while 31% fear being judged over their finances. Instead, 15% admitted they would prefer a trip to the dentist or giving their oven a deep clean.
Co-operative Bank campaign aims to break the taboo
The research was commissioned by The Co-operative Bank as part of its Money Natters campaign, which promotes more open and honest discussions about money. Kat Robinson, head of everyday banking, said: "We're a nation that cares about our table manners, but money is still one subject many of us would rather leave off the menu."
Robinson added: "We'll happily talk about religion, politics, or family drama while some of us would literally rather clean the oven than have a detailed conversation about our finances." Topics young people find especially awkward include savings, salary, and debt, with many steering clear of debt discussions entirely or struggling to admit they couldn't afford something.
Regional reluctance and financial benefits of open talk
People in the East Midlands were the most reluctant to discuss money (14%), followed by those in the Northwest (14%) and Yorkshire and the Humber (12%). Financial coach, author, and Money Natters campaign ambassador Clare Seal said: "Many of us grow up believing it's impolite to talk about money, but staying silent can often leave us feeling more anxious and less confident." She added: "The reality is that money conversations don't have to start with numbers, they can start with simple questions."
Economic modelling by Cebr suggests that discussing money more frequently could help individuals make smarter decisions about spending, saving, and investing. The data reveals that those who talk openly about money typically have twice the median cash savings of those who don't, holding £7,500 compared to £3,750. Those who discuss money are also 11% more likely to save regularly.
HelloFresh partnership brings conversation starters to dinner tables
According to OnePoll.com data, 46% of those who have had money conversations found them beneficial, compared to just 7% who said they weren't. Over a quarter (26%) said talking more about money would make them feel more financially secure, and 55% believed people would make better financial decisions if they spoke about money more openly.
As part of the initiative, The Co-operative Bank has partnered with HelloFresh to bring money discussions back to the dinner table. Selected meal kits will include a pack of playing cards that double as entertaining money conversation starters. Kat Robinson added: "When we do get talking about money, it can really help, which is why we've teamed up with HelloFresh to help take some of the awkwardness out of getting started. It doesn't have to turn into a big financial heart-to-heart – sometimes all it takes is one question to break the ice." She concluded: "Whether it's a game of snap with the family or playing around the dinner table with friends, the cards are designed to get people talking about money in a way that feels fun, natural and pressure-free."
