Brits find it easier to talk to their parents about sex than money

Britons have long been known for their reserve. But when it comes to personal finances, that cultural trait takes on a striking new dimension.

Our new research, also published by The Mirror, reveals that many people in the UK would rather discuss deeply personal – or even uncomfortable – topics with their parents than talk about money. In fact, finances appear to remain the country’s last true conversational taboo.

A silence that speaks volumes

According to a survey of 2,000 adults, nearly two-thirds (64%) would prefer to talk to their parents about an intimate health issue than explain their financial situation. Half would rather discuss the challenges of finding a job, and more than a third (35%) would opt for opening up about a messy breakup instead.

Perhaps most strikingly, 43% say they would rather talk about sex than money.

This reluctance extends to some of the most important financial topics. Around one in three respondents (32%) admit they find it difficult to discuss issues such as debt, inheritance, or writing a will even with those closest to them.

A pattern that starts early

The discomfort doesn’t begin in adulthood. It’s often learned early in life.

Nearly six in ten (59%) respondents say their parents never spoke to them about money or finances growing up. That silence appears to persist across generations, with 64% saying the topic remains off-limits even now.

The result? A widespread lack of transparency within families. Six in ten (60%) say they don’t have a clear understanding of their parents’ financial situation, and an overwhelming 84% would never ask, believing it would be “rude” to do so.

Not just a family issue

The communication gap isn’t limited to parents and children. Romantic relationships are also affected.

More than four in ten (43%) say they struggle to talk to their partner about money, whether it’s spending habits, savings, or financial priorities. On average, couples only broach the subject a handful of times each month.

As a consequence, more than one in five (21%) admit they don’t even know how much their partner earns.

A cultural trait or a costly habit?

For many, this discomfort is seen as part of the national identity. Over half (51%) believe that difficulty discussing money is a distinctly British trait, while 29% say it’s simply “not something Brits do.”

But this cultural norm comes at a cost. Avoiding financial conversations can leave people navigating complex decisions – about savings, debt, or inheritance – without guidance or support. It also contributes to emotional strain nearly half (49%) say their reluctance to talk about money has negatively impacted their financial situation or knowledge.

The consequences are tangible. Respondents report stress and anxiety (31%), financial uncertainty (23%), health issues linked to worry (22%), and even tension within families (18%).

Breaking the taboo

Experts argue that this silence is more than just a social quirk it’s a barrier to better financial wellbeing.

Carina Chambers, Pensions Technical Expert at Moneyfarm, highlights the risks avoiding conversations about money can prevent people from planning effectively, protecting their future, and supporting those around them.

Greater openness, she suggests, could have a meaningful impact, not just financially, but emotionally. Money worries are closely tied to mental health, and sharing concerns or knowledge can ease the burden.

Time to start talking

Encouragingly, there are signs that attitudes may be shifting. More than half (55%) of respondents say they wish they felt more confident discussing topics like inheritance, savings, and wills with close relatives.

The challenge now is turning that intention into action.

Because while talking about money may feel uncomfortable, the cost of staying silent could be far greater.