What is a Financial Mentor?

A Financial Mentor is a person who is trained to support and guide people to manage their money so they can achieve their goals for the future. A Financial Mentor is like a personal trainer for financial health and well-being.

How can they help me? A Financial Mentor can:

• Make sure you are receiving all your financial support from agencies like Work and Income, Inland Revenue, and others.

• Speak to people that lend you money, help you understand their contracts, and assist you to negotiate repayments.

• Suggest how to manage debt or save for the future.

• Help you and your family/whānau get the extra support you need by connecting you with people like social workers, Whanau Ora, Age Concern, Community Mental Health, and others.

Does it matter, how much money I have?

It does not matter if you are working, on a benefit, have lots of money or have very little money. Everyone is welcome.

Do I have to do what they suggest?

No, this is all about you! We will guide, support and make suggestions, but at the end of the day, it’s all about what is right for you and your family/whanau.

Is there a cost?

No cost. Financial Mentors are free, non-judgmental and confidential and there is no limit to the number of times you can see us.

Where can I learn to manage my money better?

We offer a Money Mates course. This is an opportunity for you to work in a small group, with others who want to understand more, share their experiences, and learn from a facilitator.

What if, right now, I just can’t manage?

We offer a service called Total Money Management. This enables them to help you manage your money until you are ready to manage it yourself.

How do I get to see a Financial Mentor?

You can call, phone or text us to make an appointment to see one of our Financial Mentors from Katikati to Maketu.

What else can you help me with?

Your Financial Mentor will talk to you about all the options available for your situation. In some cases they may also be able to help with the following;

• Kiwi Saver Hardship Withdrawal

• Debt Repayment Order

• No Asset Procedure

• Bankruptcy

• Interest free loans

• Debt collection loans