It’s International Youth Day—August 12—and Vernon Building Society is stepping up in a big way. They just launched Smart Money Summer, a six-week financial education campaign aimed at 13-to-21-year-olds across the UK. At a time when money matters feel more confusing than ever, this move lands right where young people need it most.
1. What’s Smart Money Summer All About?
Vernon isn’t just throwing out jargon—they’re building a new learning hub called the Money Skills Hub filled with videos and articles made just for your stage in life. They’ve split it into four digestible parts:
- Start Smart: Saving Young – Pocket money, setting saving goals, opening a savings account (made with WizeUp).
- Spend Wise: Teen Budgeting – How to manage your part-time job income and avoid impulse buys.
- Money Moves: First Paycheck – With Talk About Money, advice for that first income.
- Big Steps: Uni Life – Guides you through student loans, rent, and even “Buy for Uni” mortgages. (The Intermediary)
They’re not just online either—these resources will be pushed via social media, newsletters, in-branch promotions, and through youth orgs funded by the new Vernon Charitable Foundation. Plus, for UK Savings Week (Sept 22–28), they’re teaming up with the micro-learning app Doshi. Complete modules, win Amazon gift cards—learning that pays you back.(The Intermediary)
2. Why Does This Matter—Right Now?
Growing up in a world full of app-only banking, “Buy Now Pay Later,” and crypto hype is wild. Yet few of us actually know how to manage it all. Generation Alpha (kids under 18) have already made it clear: 84% want real financial skills taught in school—stuff like budgeting, earning, and understanding how taxes work—but schools aren’t doing it enough.(Financial Times)
That gap leads to stress—and stress can sabotage everything from relationships to your career path. Even Royal Marines are now getting basic financial training through an FT campaign that covers things like budgeting and investing—because money smarts are a survival skill.(Financial Times)
3. Why Vernon’s Move Hits Different
- Real Talk, Real Tools — These videos aren’t fluff. They’re practical advice you can use whether you’re just saving pocket money or juggling student rent.
- Meet You Where You Are — Vernon splits content by life stage—from teens to uni students—so you don’t feel lost or talked down to.
- Gamified Learning — With the Doshi app, saving isn’t boring—it’s competitive and rewarding.
- Community Connect — By working with youth organisations, Vernon ensures that financial education reaches people who might feel excluded otherwise.
4. What It Means for Real Young People
- Confidence Over Confusion – Instead of guessing how to set up a bank account or deal with student debt, you can walk in knowing what you’re doing.
- Mental Health Boost – Money stress doesn’t just hurt your bank—it hits your mind. Learning to manage finances is healing.
- Financial Independence – Whether you’re planning gap year funding or your first flat, Smart Money Summer gives you the tools to plan smart—not panic.
- Closing the Inequality Gap – Not all schools teach money skills. This kind of access levels the playing field—especially for those who didn’t grow up talking savings at home.
5. How You Can Flex Smart Money Moves
- Pause and Watch Those Videos – Even if you think you’re “too old for pocket money,” there’s always something fresh to learn.
- Download Doshi During Savings Week – Who doesn’t like a chance to win cash while you learn?
- Use It, Don’t Trash It – Share it with friends at school or uni. Even if you’re savvy, not everyone is. Spread the clarity.
- Push for More – Tell your school or youth club about the campaign. Ask them to share it. You’re the future voice behind policy changes.
Final Word
It’s rare to see a financial brand take a step back from profit-first thinking and actually build something that serves and grows you—wherever you are on your money journey. With Smart Money Summer, Vernon is doing just that.
This isn’t just good PR. It’s a real chance for young people to level up their lives—financially, emotionally, and academically. So the next time your mates are freaking out over student overdrafts or rent apps, point them to a smarter way forward.
You’re never too young to take control of your money. And this Summer, you finally don’t have to figure it out alone.
Let’s get money-smart.
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Author
Zita Salum, a British, Tanzanian journalist with a London heart, is making waves in the world of media. Born and Raised in Hackney London, she discovered her passion for storytelling at a young age. Her journey began as an admin for the Inside Success magazine, but her talent quickly shone through. Zita's ability to craft compelling narratives and her knack for capturing the essence of a story led her to become an editor for the magazine.
From there, her career soared. Zita has contributed to a diverse range of publications, including the prestigious W magazine, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her expertise spans across industries such as music, corporate, political, sports, arts, and fashion. Beyond her written work, Zita has also excelled in broadcast journalism. Her natural ability to connect with interviewees and her engaging hosting style have made her a sought-after talent in the industry.
In her free time, Zita is a dedicated networker, attending industry events and immersing herself in the latest trends. She is also passionate about investigative journalism and has produced creative documentaries that shed light on important issues. With her talent, drive, and unwavering commitment to her craft, Zita Salum is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of journalism.
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