Popular ‘Managing Money’ event returns to Caerphilly library

Following the initial success of the first ‘Managing Money MOT Day’, Caerphilly library will be hosting a second event on Wednesday 30^th November 2022, 9:30–12:30.

With the Cost of Living Crisis affecting everyone, Caerphilly libraries play a significant role to help the community prepare and plan ahead.  Offering warm – safe – free and welcoming spaces, we offer something to everyone. 

Mary Jenkins, Senior Library Assistant at Caerphilly, states, “We always try to provide the best support for our residents, so when one of our Library Assistants suggested that we run an event to help with the Cost of Living Crisis, it simply felt like it was the right thing to do”.

The previous event, ran during September connected residents with groups who offered a range of practical advice and support – from cooking on a budget to gifting of free home Smoke Alarms. One organisation saved a resident almost a £1,000.

Library staff were able to inform residents on how the library itself can help: Free WIFI, free sanitary products courtesy of the Period Dignity scheme, free PC use, free homework printing for pupils, free online magazines, eBooks and eAudiobooks.  Our library offers spaces for groups of adults and children alike – we are an important hub for our community and so much more than just a place to borrow books.

The second Managing Money MOT Day run on November 30th, will include a wide selection of organisations including Caerphilly School Uniform Exchange, Citizen’s Advice, Furniture Revival and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water and is looking to replicate its success from September.  There will also be a fantastic budget cooking demonstration with Mrs Shopland, who – along with her talented A-Level Hospitality students from St Martin’s School – will be showing what can be done with Christmas leftover food.

Along with top tips, advice and support from all these organisations, the Managing Money MOT Day will also be an excellent opportunity for residents to speak face to face with council staff, who can help with problems including benefits, housing, debt, and food support. The Citizen’s Advice Bureau will also be present and will have access to a private room should anyone need to discuss anything confidential.

Cllr Carol Andrews, Cabinet Member for Communities commented, “I would encourage anyone who is seeking advice and/or support regarding the cost of living crisis to attend this session at Caerphilly Library. The first session, held in September, was extremely beneficial to a number of residents and this face to face interaction with a variety of organisations could offer significant savings to those who are struggling financially.”