15 November 2023

My journey as a policy officer at Money Advice Scotland began with excitement, anticipation, and a deep sense of purpose. Over the past five months, I've had the privilege of working on a variety of projects which have aimed to influence policy decisions, promote financial wellbeing and make a tangible difference in the lives of people in Scotland. 

The initial days as a policy officer were filled with enthusiasm. Continuing my journey with Money Advice Scotland by joining the dedicated Policy Team from the Digital Team was not just the start of a new role but a continued commitment to a mission - one that seeks to create a more financially secure Scotland.

One of the first projects I had the honour of being involved in was crafting the Challenge Poverty Week policy brief. The aims of this initiative were clear: to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of poverty in Scotland and advocate for policies that can bring about positive change. You can read the policy brief which we created here and the fact sheet here.   

Council Tax Consultation

Conducting a consultation on council tax was a significant part of my work during these five months. This project was all about engaging with our members, understanding their concerns, and gathering feedback on this crucial financial matter. You can read our response to this consultation here.

Empowering consumers with the new Consumer Duty

Creating information for consumers regarding the new consumer duty was both challenging and rewarding. Consumer protection in financial matters is vital, but often complex. My task was to simplify this information, making it accessible to the public. It was inspiring to see how these efforts could empower individuals to make informed financial decisions.

Engaging with the FCA Consultation

Contributing to a consultation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) was an insightful experience. These consultations play a significant role in shaping financial regulations and policies. Being part of this process allowed me to understand the broader regulatory landscape and ensure our work aligns with these critical efforts.

Lessons and personal growth

These five months have been a learning journey. I've gained valuable skills, from research and analysis to effective communication. Each project has provided unique insights into the world of financial policy, enhancing my ability to make a meaningful impact in this field.

Collaborative efforts

The power of collaboration has been a constant theme in my work. From brainstorming sessions with colleagues to engaging with external stakeholders and experts, it's clear that policy work is a team effort. Together, we aim to build a solid foundation for our policy initiatives at Money Advice Scotland.

Building a strong foundation

As I look back on these five months, I can't help but be inspired by the impact we are striving to make. Our work at Money Advice Scotland is not just about policy; it's about creating a foundation for a financially secure Scotland. It's about changing lives and challenging poverty.

In my first five months as a policy officer at Money Advice Scotland, I've had the privilege of contributing to important projects that align with our mission of promoting financial wellbeing. The journey has been enlightening, challenging, and deeply rewarding, and I'm eager to continue our vital work in the months and years to come.

If you're passionate about financial wellbeing and policy advocacy, I invite you to stay engaged with Money Advice Scotland. Explore our resources, services, and advocacy efforts, and join us in our mission to create a more financially secure Scotland. Together, we can make a difference.