Marvin OnumonuNatWest is expanding its Financial foundations programme to support 50,000 people with free financial education and guidance in 2026.
The scheme, first piloted in late 2024 in the North, has grown quickly, with over 1,500 workshops delivered to about 800 businesses and 32,000 people in 2025.
The programme involves NatWest working with business customers and community groups to provide free sessions for employees and members.
Companies supported include Vodafone, Enfield Council, West Granton Housing Cooperative, and Portico.
The workshops cover budgeting, debt management, savings, planning for the unexpected, and fraud protection.
Research found 88% of workshop participants felt more confident about managing their money afterwards.
The programme is expected to reach around 1,000 people a week in their workplace or community group throughout 2026.
Solange Chamberlain, CEO of Retail Banking NatWest, said: “Financial capability and confidence is a vital but often underestimated part of our economic infrastructure – helping people build financial resilience and plan for their future – strengthening communities from the inside out.
“Over the last year, we’ve seen positive Government action to help bring financial education and skills to even more young people in education.
“For over 30 years, NatWest has been committed to improving financial education through partnerships with schools and youth clubs.”
Chamberlain added: “Our Financial Foundations programme is an opportunity to build on this and reach more young adults and families.
“That’s why we’re expanding this innovative programme in 2026 — to take more of our colleagues’ expertise into the communities we serve – bringing valuable benefits to both employers and the individuals.”
Economic Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby, said: “Having a full understanding as to how best to save, budget and protect yourself from fraud are key to building financial health.
“Making financial education compulsory in primary schools will be a game changer in helping the next generation learn these vital skills, and NatWest’s exciting campaign builds on that by boosting people’s confidence to manage their money.”
Malcolm Buchanan, chair of the NatWest North regional board, said: “Initially we started offering support and advice to corporate clients whose employees were struggling with financial problems.
“Our colleagues would host workshops on areas ranging from debt management to the risks of fraud and scams.
“The aim was to help start conversations about financial issues and give people impartial advice.
“The demand took off, and we realised that NatWest would be well-placed to help improve financial education for thousands across the country.”
Chris Mitchell, CEO of Portico, said: “Our colleagues found the Financial Foundations workshop very beneficial.
“Even for those with a good understanding of how to manage money, being in the workshop and having open conversations on financing and budgeting helps bring the topic to life and break down some of the barriers that can exist.
“We’re looking forward to more of our colleagues across the UK having the chance to enjoy the session in future.”
