Hyfa at NAMSS 2025: Supporting Student Services Through Financial Education
Earlier this month, Hyfa Foundation attended the NAMSS Annual Conference for the first time - a milestone moment for us as a charity.
Co-founder Stephen Mix represented Hyfa at the event, joining student services professionals from across the UK for two days of discussion, insight, and connection. As our first involvement in NAMSS, we weren’t sure what to expect – but the reception was overwhelmingly positive.
“It was energising to see how many people genuinely care about improving students’ financial literacy,” said Stephen. “Many of the professionals I spoke to told me that students regularly cite financial knowledge as one of their biggest areas of concern. It was clear there’s a real demand for practical support.”
Our online financial education course was particularly popular, with many visitors to the stand keen to find out how it could be integrated into their existing support frameworks. There was also strong interest in the bespoke, in-person sessions we deliver, designed to meet the specific needs of students navigating life’s key transitions.
For us, the conversations confirmed what we’ve long believed – that financial education is a core part of student support, and that demand is growing. From budgeting and managing debt to understanding payslips and planning for the future, students need more than academic learning – they need tools that equip them for real life.
We're now actively following up with the individuals and organisations we connected with, and look forward to building long-term partnerships that put student support and financial education front and centre.
How to Financially Prepare for Your First Child: A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a family is an exciting milestone, but it also brings new financial responsibilities. Preparing in advance can help ease stress and set you up for a secure future. Here’s a step-by-step guide to financially preparing for your first child.
Step 1: Assess Your Current Financial Situation
Before making any changes, take stock of your current finances. Review your income, expenses, savings, and debts to understand where you stand. This will help you create a realistic budget for your growing family.
Step 2: Create a Baby Budget
A new baby comes with added costs, from nappies to childcare. List all expected expenses, including:
- One-time purchases – cot, pram, car seat, and baby essentials.
- Ongoing costs – nappies, formula, clothing, and healthcare.
- Childcare – if applicable, research costs early and explore options.
Step 3: Build an Emergency Fund
Having an emergency fund is crucial. Aim for at least three to six months’ worth of expenses in savings. This will provide a financial cushion in case of unexpected costs or changes in income.
Step 4: Review Your Health & Life Insurance
Check your health insurance policy to ensure it covers maternity care and your child’s medical needs. Consider taking out or increasing life insurance to provide financial security for your family.
Step 5: Plan for Parental Leave
Understand your employer’s maternity and paternity leave policies and any statutory payments available. If your income will change, adjust your budget accordingly.
Step 6: Start Saving for Future Expenses
Education and childcare costs can add up over time. If possible, start setting aside savings for:
- Childcare fees
- School-related expenses
- Long-term savings (e.g., Junior ISA or Child Trust Fund)
Step 7: Adjust Your Household Budget
Look at your current spending and find areas to cut back. Redirecting savings into a baby fund can make a big difference.
Step 8: Explore Government Support & Benefits
Check your eligibility for child benefit, tax credits, or parental leave schemes to help ease financial pressure.
Step 9: Plan for Wills & Guardianship
Having a will ensures your child is cared for if anything happens to you. Consider appointing a guardian and updating your financial plans accordingly.
Step 10: Continue Learning About Financial Wellbeing
Parenthood comes with evolving financial needs. Stay informed by seeking financial advice, reading resources, and attending workshops.
Final Thoughts
Financial preparation can make the transition to parenthood smoother and more manageable. By planning ahead, budgeting wisely, and building financial security, you’ll create a strong foundation for your growing family.
For more financial planning tips, visit Hyfa Foundation and explore our resources on financial wellbeing for life’s key transitions.
Empowering Financial Literacy: What Hyfa Foundation Does
At Hyfa Foundation, we are dedicated to bridging the financial knowledge gap, particularly for under-represented groups facing financial challenges. Our mission is to provide targeted financial education through workshops and programmes, equipping individuals with the tools to achieve financial independence and control over their lives.
Our Team
Hyfa’s efforts are led by a passionate team of trustees, including Meena Anand, Calvin Cowell, and Stephen Mix. With backgrounds in financial services, social mobility, and business, they bring a wealth of expertise to drive financial literacy initiatives forward. Each team member is dedicated to promoting financial inclusion and empowerment, with a strong focus on helping underserved communities.
Through their combined experience, Hyfa offers personalised support and resources that enable individuals to achieve both personal and professional freedom, creating lasting social impact.
Read more here