THE nation is banking on a young charity leader from Bolton to help shape the country’s finances.

Saeed Atcha has been appointed to the UK Strategy for Financial Wellbeing Challenge Group, set up by the Money and Pensions Service to join people from different sectors.

Saeed, CEO of Youth Leads, said: “It’s not right that 5.3 million children are missing out on meaningful financial education and 11.5 million people have less than £100 in savings.

“ This needs to change. I’m thrilled to become a member and after our first meeting I’m buoyed by the commitment of our group to include the voice of young people across this six-month programme ­— it’s only right that young people are given a say in decisions that may affect them.”

The group will help meet the goals set out in the Government-backed UK Strategy for Financial Wellbeing which is designed to help achieve the vision of everyone making the most of their money and pensions. This includes better financial advice for everyone.

Caroline Siarkiewicz, chief executive of the Money and Pensions Service said: “Transforming financial wellbeing is too big a job for any one organisation or even one sector.

“ Our UK Strategy lays down the gauntlet in terms of what the country needs to aim for and I’m delighted to see so many inspiring people ready to join us and take up the challenge.

“The Challenge Chairs are also leading by example and, on behalf of their organisations, setting the scene for many more across the UK to support the delivery plans to make a difference to financial wellbeing over the next decade.”

This is the latest role for Saeed who also serves at the Social Mobility Commissioner and a deputy lieutenant.