FAQs

What does the Nationwide Savings Index measure?
The Nationwide Savings Index measures the population's view of the current position and future prospects of savings in the UK. The index takes into account the current and future savings habits of the population and personal feelings about government policy.

How long has the Nationwide Savings Index been in place?
Nationwide started surveying consumers about their savings habits in May 2008 with the Index first reporting in June 2008.

What measures does the Savings Index comprise?
When using the Savings Index, Nationwide looks at how consumers feel about seven separate elements:

• consumers' view of their current savings situation
• consumers' view of their savings situation in six months time
• consumers' view of the current economic situation for savings
• consumers' view of government policy in relation to saving
• consumers' view of the importance of saving in general
• consumers' view of the importance of saving to them
• consumers' view of the frequency of their saving
• how often consumers save

How does the Nationwide Savings Index fit with the Nationwide Consumer Confidence Index and the Nationwide House Price Index?
The Savings Index is a separate set of questions within the Consumer Confidence survey and separate from the House Price Index but complements the findings of both.

How often do you speak to people about the Savings Index?
We publish reports on a monthly basis and give a picture for the UK as a whole.

How many consumers do you speak to?
We speak to at least 1,000 consumers every month.

Is the sample representative of the United Kingdom?
Yes, we speak to consumers throughout the UK, including Northern Ireland, ensuring a sample that is representative of the UK population is questioned.

How often are results published?
Results are published each month, the week after the Nationwide Consumer Confidence Index is released.

For further information please contact Anthony Hua in the Nationwide Press Office.