Girlguiding and HSBC UK have introduced a new “Money Skills – I’m Money Confident” badge and activities designed to teach financial literacy to over 300,000 girls and young women in the UK aged 4 to 18. This initiative, launched during Talk Money Week, aims to empower girls to manage money confidently through age-appropriate activities and training for Girlguiding’s 80,000 volunteers.
Bridging the financial confidence gap
Recent research commissioned by HSBC UK highlights a troubling disparity in financial confidence among children. Over one-third (36%) of girls aged 5 to 17 feel unsure about managing money, compared to 33% of boys. This concern begins early, with 11% of girls aged 5 to 9 worried about the cost of living, rising to 19% for those aged 15 to 17. Girlguiding’s additional findings show 62% of young women aged 11 to 21 fear they won’t afford essentials like bills, secure income, or housing in the future.
Fun activities to build lifelong skills
The new badge activities are tailored for each Girlguiding section under the “Skills for My Future” theme. Rainbows (4–7 years) will explore saving vs. spending through games, while Brownies (7–10 years) will earn “points” through financial decision-making challenges. Guides (10–14 years) and Rangers (14–18 years) will tackle budgeting, saving, and understanding financial concepts like contracts and credit. Upon completion, participants will earn the Young Enterprise-accredited badge.
Breaking the money taboo
Angela Salt, CEO of Girlguiding, emphasizes the importance of early financial education: “We aim to empower girls to feel confident managing money, equipping them with lifelong skills.” Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, adds, “Financial skills are life skills. By working with Girlguiding, we’re preparing young people to take control of their financial futures.”
This partnership aligns with Girlguiding’s vision of fostering equality and confidence, ensuring girls grow up with the tools they need to thrive.
