About us

Welcome! I’m Stephen, and I’m on a mission to make money less scary.

For years, I was stuck in a cycle of financial anxiety. I’d get paid, cover my essential bills, and then drift through the rest of the month with a vague sense of dread, hoping no unexpected costs would pop up. My finances felt like something that was happening to me, not something I was in control of.

The turning point came in late 2019. A period of unexpected unemployment, followed by a significantly lower-paying job, completely wiped out what little savings I had. It was a stressful and embarrassing wake-up call. I realised that if I didn’t take control of my money, it would control me forever.

That’s when I decided to fight back. Living here in East Sussex, I wasn’t interested in the get-rich-quick schemes or complicated investment advice I saw online. I needed practical, real-world solutions that worked for a normal life in the UK.

So, I dove headfirst into the world of personal finance. I didn’t just read books; I became an active experimenter. I’ve personally tested over 20 different side hustles, from dog walking and online surveys to freelancing and selling crafts. I’ve tried countless budgeting apps and methods, from the traditional envelope system to cutting-edge digital tools. Most importantly, I meticulously tracked every penny and every hour to see what actually made a difference in my own finances.

Why I Started Money Mending

I created Money Mending because I knew I couldn’t be the only one feeling this way. This blog is the honest, no-jargon resource I wish I’d had when I started my own journey.

My goal isn’t to tell you what to do. It’s to show you what I’ve done – the successes, the failures, and the lessons learned along the way. From my hands-on-deck experiment comparing YNAB and Monzo to the real earnings from my local side hustles, I share it all with complete transparency. I believe that by sharing my actual experiences trying out so many different ways to earn and save, I can help you find what truly works for your unique situation.

This is a place for real people trying to build better financial habits, one small step at a time.

My Experience

While I am not a certified financial advisor, I am an expert in my own financial journey. My experience comes from years of dedicated self-education and rigorous hands-on practice. I’ve successfully eliminated over £15,000 of consumer debt, built a six-month emergency fund, and now confidently manage my monthly budget. I’m passionate about sharing the practical, tried-and-tested steps that got me here, backed by my real-world attempts and results.

You can also connect with me on LinkedIn or Instagram.

Thank you for being here. I hope my journey can help you with yours.

Best,

Stephen

Disclaimer

The information provided on Money Mending is for informational and educational purposes only, based on my personal experience. It does not constitute financial advice. Please consult with a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.