This is a straightforward introduction to the types of financial products and services that are widely available – bank accounts, savings, loans, pensions, insurance and so on. The information is factual, non-biased and non-brand specific. The Handbook clearly explains:

• why financial planning is important, and how to go about it
• when you might need a particular product or service, and the types of provider
• what costs might be involved, the small print, and how to protect yourself from fraud or mis-selling
• your rights and responsibilities as a consumer
• where to get further advice and help, and how to complain if necessary.

This edition takes account of how the ’credit crunch’ and recession have affected people’s finances. It has has new and expanded information on banking, Saving Gateway, ISAs, pay-day loans, pawnbroking, debt relief orders, pension personal accounts, individual budgets, payment protection insurance and sale-and-rent-back schemes. It is fully updated with 2009-10 tax and benefit rates. The Personal Finance Handbook is for you if you are:

• advising people on low to moderate incomes who may be having difficulty accessing everyday financial products that could help them – for example, a bank account to receive direct payments
• participating in financial literacy projects, or providing education or training in financial literacy.

This guide is geared to the needs of general advisers and trainers. It is not for registered financial advisers; neither is it primarily aimed at the consumer (although many individuals will find it useful). The Personal Finance Handbook is published by CPAG with SAFE (Services Against Financial Exclusion) at Toynbee Hall. This third edition is published with the support of the Financial Services Authority. Author Jonquil Lowe is a freelance writer and Lecturer in Personal Finance with The Open University, a former head of the Money Group at Which- and the author of over twenty personal finance books for consumers.