16 January 2026
PRESS RELEASE
Beat Blue Monday by taking control of your finances and your future
Monday 19 January marks this year’s ‘Blue Monday’, which is often dubbed the most depressing day of the year. But Quilter Invest, the investment and savings app, is encouraging people to flip the script. Instead of letting Blue Monday take hold, Quilter Invest is urging people to take small, practical steps to regain control of their finances to beat the blues and set themselves up confidently for the year ahead.
The festive season can leave even the most organised among us feeling financially stretched. With December’s wages covering more than usual, it’s easy to feel as though your finances are slipping out of your control. But the new year is also a perfect moment to pause, reset and take stock – boosting not just your financial resilience, but your overall wellbeing too.
Kane Harrison, Quilter Invest CEO, says:
“Trying to regain control of your finances can feel overwhelming, especially after an expensive festive period. But everyone, no matter their income or circumstances, can take practical steps that make a meaningful difference to their financial wellbeing and their future.
“For some, that means getting on top of debt. For others, it’s about starting to save or planning further ahead. Knowing what to do next helps lift the mental weight and brings a sense of control.”
- Tackle debt before building savings
“Before building up savings, it’s crucial to tackle any high‑interest debt. Many households rely on credit over Christmas, and the pressure of looming credit card bills can take a toll financially and mentally.
“Clearing these debts first frees up money in the long run and helps reduce stress. And remember, support is out there. Talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but it can also be a relief. Speak to someone you trust, or turn to free services such as MoneyHelper, Citizens Advice or StepChange.”
- Build your savings – little and often
“Saving doesn’t have to start with big amounts. Building the habit is what matters. Small, regular contributions can grow surprisingly quickly and help you build an emergency fund, ideally covering three to six months of expenses.
“Automating savings with a direct debit on payday can make this effortless. And don’t let your savings sit idle, instead look for higher‑interest accounts and move your money to get the best return.”
- When you’re ready, put your money to work by investing
“Once you’ve built a safety buffer, investing should be the natural next step. Most of us are already investing through our workplace pensions, but other earlier-access savings deserve the same opportunity to grow.
“If your savings horizon is five years or more, a stocks and shares ISA is a great place to start. You can invest up to £20,000 a year tax‑free. The limit might sound intimidating, but investing small amounts – £25 to £100 per month – can compound into something meaningful over time.
“To put this into perspective, a £1,000 deposit in an average savings account five years ago (1 January 2021) would be worth £1,076.70 today*. The same amount invested in an average mixed‑investment fund would now stand at £1,312.12**. On £5,000, that’s the difference between £5,383.52* saved and £6,560.59 invested**.
“With savings rates falling and the gap between cash and investments set to widen, there’s never been a more important moment to take action. By investing for the long term where appropriate, people can give their future selves a significant boost, and turn Blue Monday into the day they took control of their financial future.”
*Based on the return of the average savings account over the period (7.7%). Returns to 31 December 2025.
**Based on the return of the average fund in the IA Mixed Investment 40-85% Shares over the period. Returns to 31 December 2025.
