Money alert: Financial planning week

Starting tomorrow is Financial Planning Week, the annual event which aims to encourage more people to get serious about their money.

It's actually a publicity event for financial planners but it's worth reminding ourselves of the importance of taking the time to think about our money and what we should do with it.

Julie Hutchison of Standard Life said: "Financial Planning Week is a great reminder of the importance of planning for the future. When we think about money and planning we often feel anxious. But if we regularly save and review our finances every month, we feel more in control and calmer overall, and we think more about our family and loved ones."

Tracey Bleakley, pfeg chief executive, said: "It is especially important that young people learn to plan ahead. Many people assume that financial planning is just about retirement – but it is also essential to achieving short-term goals and getting the lifestyle that you want. It should be a staple of all young people's money management."