When everyday pressures combine with the extra demands of the festive season – from higher bills to social expectations – it can take a real toll on people’s wellbeing.
Money worries don’t just affect budgets; they affect how people sleep, concentrate and show up for work and family life. As the cost of living continues to rise, many are finding this time of year harder than ever.
We believe financial wellbeing is an essential part of whole-person wellbeing. Feeling secure financially helps people stay balanced, focused and connected, both at work and beyond.
So, how can leaders and organisations offer meaningful support when it’s needed most?
Why financial wellbeing needs attention now
- 60% of UK employees say their financial situation is harming their health (mental or physical) – nudge, Global Financial Wellbeing Report 2025 (via Learning News).
- 31% report stress and 22% say they lose sleep because of money worries (nudge / Learning News, Financial Literacy and Wellbeing Survey 2025).
These pressures peak during what’s often portrayed as a “joyful” season, but for many, it’s a period of hidden stress.
Ways to help your people feel more financially secure.
Here are six ways to make a meaningful difference, drawing on best practice from the Money and Pensions Service, MoneyHelper, and the CIPD.
Make talking about money normal
Encourage open, stigma-free conversations about financial wellbeing as part of your regular wellbeing check-ins. Managers don’t need to have all the answers – simply showing empathy can make a difference.
Tip: Provide brief guidance or training for managers on how to recognise signs of financial stress and how to signpost to confidential support such as MoneyHelper or StepChange.
Share trusted resources and practical tools
Many employees don’t know where to turn for reliable financial advice. Share links to trusted organisations such as MoneyHelper, StepChange, or the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS).
Tip: Offer short, informal sessions on managing spending over the festive season or planning for January using free MaPS resources.
Be transparent about pay, benefits and recognition
Clarity helps people plan and reduces uncertainty. Make sure employees understand the full value of what’s available to them, from salary-sacrifice schemes and wellbeing allowances, to vouchers, recognition awards or extra time off.
Tip: Send a simple “what’s available to you” email or intranet update before the festive break so employees can easily access support.
Offer flexibility where possible
Small acts of flexibility can make a big difference at this time of year. Early finishes, adjusted hours or hybrid working can help people manage personal commitments, childcare or travel costs.
Tip: Consider offering a “no meetings” afternoon or flexible hours to give people space to balance work and life.
Explore financial support options
For some, this season brings extra financial pressure. Consider short-term hardship funds, salary-advance schemes or credit union partnerships that provide safe, ethical access to funds.
Tip: Communicate these options clearly and confidentially — people are more likely to use them if they know what’s available and trust it’s handled with care.
Encourage small, consistent saving habits
As people head into the new year, help them build a stronger sense of financial security. Promoting payroll savings or small, regular contributions can help employees prepare for future costs and feel more in control.
Tip: Encourage achievable goals – even saving a few pounds a week can make a difference.
Supporting financial wellbeing isn’t about giving financial advice, it’s about showing empathy and providing people with the tools to feel more secure.
During times of seasonal pressure, thoughtful action can make a lasting difference – helping people manage short-term stress while strengthening trust and resilience for the long term.
At Oakwood, we work with organisations to embed practical, compassionate approaches to wellbeing, because when people feel safe and supported, everyone thrives.
Contact us to discover how Oakwood helps leaders strengthen wellbeing through every kind of pressure.
