Third of people uncomfortable talking about money

New Barclays research shows that a long‑standing reluctance to talk about money continues to affect how confidently adults manage their household finances. While many avoid financial conversations – often reflecting attitudes shaped in childhood – there is growing recognition that being more open can make a real difference.

With six in ten adults (59 per cent) concerned about the potential impact of the conflict in the Middle East on their household finances, greater confidence and openness around financial challenges could help people feel better supported and more able to navigate periods of volatility.

Three in ten (29 per cent) say they avoid talking about money even if they know it would help their situation, including four in ten Gen Zs (39 per cent). Half of all adults (50 per cent) say it feels rude to discuss money, one in three (33 per cent) say talking about their finances makes them feel uncomfortable, and 5 per cent would rather “do anything” than talk about it, which equates to 2.8 million people.

Early experiences play a powerful role in shaping how comfortable we feel with money as adults. Analysis from Barclays’ and National Numeracy’s recent Nurturing number confidence report estimates that 2.1 million children have at least one parent with low number confidence, which shapes their relationship with numbers.

Nearly six in ten (59 per cent) say the way they learned about money as children has shaped their financial behaviours today. Almost a third of adults (31 per cent) say the children they know are already thinking about the lifestyle they want in the future and what they will need to do to financially achieve it – underlining the necessity of early education and support.

The research also shows that achieving positive milestones or life events, such as buying a house or career changes, consistently strengthens financial confidence and encourages people to open up. Half (53 per cent) of those who experienced a positive event say it made them more willing to talk about money. Paying off a major debt boosted confidence for 70 per cent of people, while 56 per cent reported the same after starting to invest.

Conversely, financial shocks, such as an unwanted reduction in working hours (44 per cent), a long-term illness or injury (43 per cent) and job loss or redundancy (41 per cent) are most frequently cited as having harmed financial confidence. Fraud concerns also persist, with 68 per cent saying that being scammed would significantly damage their confidence.

Vim Maru, Chief Executive of Barclays UK, said “Everyday conversations with friends and family can play an important role in shaping how we feel about our finances. Yet for many, a fear of judgement – or the sense that money is simply ‘not talked about’ – still holds them back.

“During periods of volatility, household finances can come under real pressure, but clear and accessible support can help people feel more confident navigating these challenges. Our research shows that when people feel able to talk about their money and seek support, they are likely to make more informed choices. Over time, these benefits are felt not just by individuals, but, by the wider economy too.”