Money Mentor David Braithwaite takes a closer look at premium bonds — how they work, what’s changed, and whether they’re still worth it. Discover the latest winning odds, find out how much unclaimed prize money is sitting in Kent, and learn the pros and cons of using premium bonds as a savings option.

David also answers a listener question on Lifetime ISAs, explaining how the government’s 25% top-up works for first-time buyers and retirement savers.

Premium Bonds Explained: Are They Still Worth It? | Money Mentor with David Braithwaite

Freshers’ Week on a budget. Money Mentor David Braithwaite shares quick wins for students and families:
• Best student bank accounts (cash bonuses, railcards, food credits)
• Avoiding BNPL and subscription creep
• Saving on travel (16–25 Railcard), textbooks (buy/sell second-hand), and prescriptions (PPC)
• What to check on insurance: student cover under home contents, named gadgets, personal-possessions away from home, excesses & locks
Plus simple habits to keep spending on track — and fewer “bank of mum & dad” calls.

Heading to Uni? Smart Money Moves for Students (and Parents) | Money Mentor

What does modern retirement really look like? In this Money Mentor episode, David Braithwaite shares why retirement is no longer about stopping work — but about finding purpose, freedom, and balance.

Hear how flexible working, longer life expectancy, and creative income options are changing retirement for the better. David also covers how to:
• Trace and organise your pensions
• Create a personal freedom fund for hobbies or ventures
• Check you’re claiming all entitlements
• Manage money confidently without fear of running out

Listen now for practical steps to retire comfortably — and live fully.

Rethinking Retirement: Finding Purpose, Comfort & Financial Freedom | Money Mentor

Fraud is 40% of crime in England & Wales — but you can stay one step ahead. In this Money Mentor episode, David Braithwaite explains how scammers reel us in (fake “update payment” emails, spoofed bank calls, council-tax refund texts, and QR-code stickers in car parks), the red flags to watch for, and what to do immediately if you’ve paid or shared details.

New tracks tagged ##PersonalFinance