Q: How much pocket money did you get a week when you were younger?

JL: Me and my brothers and sister never used to get pocket money. My parents tried it but it never used to work with us, we used to spend it straight away, and I’d get upset if I got less than my older brothers. My mum and dad just gave us money every time we needed it. So sometimes we needed more one week than we did another… it was cool though and worked well.

Q:Were you better at spending or saving?

JL: Spending definitely!! Me and my sister used to buy silly things like bouncy balls and balloons – we were obsessed with balloons when we were younger – oh and sweets! But luckily I think we’ve both grown out of that problem! I suppose when we were younger there was no real need to save, so whenever we had cash, we’d spend it!

Q: Did you get more or less than your siblings/friends?

JL: Every one does things differently. As I said, my parents gave us money when we needed it, and some of my friends got weekly or monthly pocket money. My parents were fair though, and we weren’t overly spoilt but we didn’t go without.

Q: What did you save your money in?

JL: When I was really young I just had a jar for spare cash, and my parents had a small account for me, by then I started working properly at about 12 so I had to open a proper bank account.

Q: Did you ever ask your parents for a raise?

JL: On average we used to get about £5 a week, and that was enough for me at the age I was... but, of course, as I got older and wanted more things I asked for a bit more. Luckily I grew up in Devon, so things were a bit cheaper down there than in London.

Q: What did you spend your pocket money on?

JL: Silly things, like I said – sweets, toys, computer games. Actually I did spend my money on good stuff too, likes skates and fishing equipment etc... So it wasn’t all wasted.

Q: What was the most expensive item you ever bought with your pocket money?

JL: When I was about 11, I saved up about £50 and bout a pair of roller skates. I did want another pair that was more expensive BUT I got too impatient! Ha ha!

Q: When did you open your first bank account and why?

JL: When I was about 12, I think, because I started earning money so I had to put it somewhere.

Q: Do you have any money or saving tips for kids?

JL: If you want to save for something, it might be worth giving your mum or dad half of your pocket money or some of it put by for you each week, so it adds up – just make sure you don’t know where they hide it!

back