How I Manage My Money: Sue Johnson, 75, Shares Her Financial Journey

Sue Johnson, a 75-year-old retiree living in Essex, has shared her inspiring story of financial resilience and generosity in our How I Manage My Money series. After working as a librarian for decades and retiring at the age of 60, Sue now carefully manages her income to meet her costs and give back to others.

Despite receiving a state pension of £824 per month, Sue also relies on a work pension of £774 per month to make ends meet. Reflecting on her upbringing in Tyneside, where money was tight, Sue emphasizes the importance of budgeting and saving. She meticulously tracks every penny she spends, using online budget sheets and spreadsheets to stay on top of her finances.

Sue’s journey to financial stability was not without challenges. Following a divorce, she found herself in £1,000 worth of debt, struggling to make ends meet. With the help of Christians Against Poverty, Sue learned valuable budgeting skills and successfully paid off her debts in 10 months. Since then, she has dedicated her time to volunteering as a money coach for the charity, helping others in similar situations.

Despite her own financial constraints, Sue remains committed to giving back, donating a portion of her income to various charities and church organizations each month. Her selfless attitude towards money reflects her belief in the importance of generosity and helping those in need.

Sue’s story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, budgeting, and giving back. By carefully managing her money and prioritizing her values, she has found a sense of financial security and fulfillment in her retirement years.