Pembrokeshire expert shares link between mental health and financial struggles
Mental Health Awareness Week highlights vital community support
A PEMBROKESHIRE money adviser is urging people to talk about money worries this Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12–18), as new data reveals three-quarters of those facing mental health challenges also struggle to manage bills and payments.
Frank Farrer, a money practitioner at Pembrokeshire FRAME, works with people across the county who are struggling with debt, fuel poverty and the rising cost of living. He says financial stress and mental health go hand in hand—and that local, face-to-face support can make all the difference.
'There's a massive link between money and mental health,' Frank explained. 'When you're financially stressed, you might not sleep. That makes it even harder to think straight, make decisions or even feel confident enough to ask for help.'
He recalled one woman who was so overwhelmed by an Adult Disability Payment form she couldn't even bring herself to look at it properly. 'All she could do was write her name and address. But when we broke it down together, step-by-step, it became manageable. That's the kind of support that helps ease anxiety around money.'
Frank is part of the Community Fuel Guidance Team, supported by Wales and West Utilities and operating from Pembrokeshire FRAME. In the last year alone, the team has supported over 2,000 local families.
Liz Clarke, Chair of Pembrokeshire FRAME, said: 'We're incredibly proud of Frank and Sue and the work they're doing. They bring real empathy and understanding to what can be a very difficult topic. Their support is making a genuine difference to families across the county.'
This year's Mental Health Awareness Week is themed around 'Community', and Frank believes that's key to helping people open up.
'Being part of a community means you're visible, trusted and approachable,' he said. 'When we attend local events, we're not there in suits with clipboards—we're there to chat, to listen. We might sit down with someone over a cup of tea and a slice of cake. That informal approach helps people relax and feel safe enough to talk.'
According to the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS), 74% of people with a mental health issue struggle to keep up with bills and payments, and 91% avoid talking about money at all. Frank is a member of the MaPS-backed Money Guiders network, which provides self-development and training for those offering financial guidance in their communities.
Anyone worried about money can visit MoneyHelper for free, impartial guidance backed by the UK Government.
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