Three in 10 Britons would rather discuss politics or religion than money

A poll of 2,000 adults, commissioned by The Co-operative Bank, found that 30 per cent feel uneasy when it comes to financial conversations.

Among 18 to 34-year-olds, the discomfort runs deeper, with 37 per cent describing such discussions as embarrassing.

Half of all respondents said talking about money feels awkward. Meanwhile, 31 per cent expressed concern about being judged for their financial situation.

More than a third (36 per cent) would avoid raising the topic at the dinner table entirely, viewing it as bad manners.

The research revealed that one in five adults have sidestepped conversations about debt completely, while 18 per cent have avoided admitting to someone that they cannot afford something.

Among younger respondents, 15 per cent said they would prefer a trip to the dentist or deep cleaning their oven to having a detailed discussion about finances.

Debt proved the most uncomfortable topic for young people, with 32 per cent finding it difficult to address. Savings troubled 24 per cent, while 21 per cent felt uneasy discussing their salary.

Kat Robinson, head of everyday banking, said: “We’re a nation that cares about our table manners, but money is still one subject many of us would rather leave off the menu.

“We’ll happily talk about religion, politics, or family drama while some of us would literally rather clean the oven than have a detailed conversation about our finances.”

Regionally, those in the East Midlands and the North West were the least comfortable talking about money, with just 14 per cent in each area feeling at ease. Yorkshire and the Humber followed closely at 12 per cent.

Economic modelling carried out by Cebr found that people who talk freely about money tend to hold median cash savings of £7,500, compared with £3,750 for those who keep quiet.

Those willing to have financial conversations are also 11 per cent more likely to put money aside on a regular basis.

The findings suggest that breaking the silence could lead to smarter choices around spending, saving and investing.

Among those who have had open discussions about their finances, 46 per cent said the experience was helpful. Just seven per cent felt it had not been worthwhile.

More than a quarter (26 per cent) said greater openness about money would leave them feeling more financially secure, and 55 per cent believed people would make better financial decisions if they talked about the subject more freely.

Kat Robinson, head of everyday banking at The Co-operative Bank, said: “When we do get talking about money, it can really help, which is why we’ve teamed up with HelloFresh to help take some of the awkwardness out of getting started.”

Ms Robinson added that the cards are intended to make discussing finances feel “fun, natural and pressure-free.”

Clare Seal, a financial coach and campaign ambassador, said: “The reality is that money conversations don’t have to start with numbers, they can start with simple questions.”