ME AND MY MONEY:Aimee Richardson

Are you a saver or a spender?

Both, I suppose. I never had much money to do either but now that I’m doing the voice-over work I can do a little bit of both.

Do you shop around for better value?

Not really. I sometimes go round the shops with my friends, Josie and Liz. If we see something we need we might buy it, as long as the price seems okay.

What has been your most extravagant purchase ever? I bought a new laptop recently and it cost €860, including software and insurance. It’s very convenient for contacting friends and for organising things through e-mails. I like to buy clothes occasionally, but I don’t go for anything too flashy or expensive.

What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?

Flute classes with Tom (traditional Irish music) and with Eleanor (classical). Not exactly a purchase, but the music they teach always stays with me. Music plays a big part in my life and I love going to music sessions. I do a lot of practising and I sometimes compose my own tunes. My sister Julie gave me a gift of good- quality recording equipment and I may buy more things in that line.

Have you ever crossed the Border to shop?

No, I’d never go that far just for shopping.

Do you haggle over prices?

No. I never have. I wasn’t sure what it meant until now.

Has the recession changed your spending habits?

I started a new, paid job at the beginning of the recession so it didn’t affect me too much. I have become a bit more aware of how much items cost, so I usually watch how much I spend. I go to Carmona Services’ choices programme in Glenageary for people with intellectual disabilities. Staff there are great at helping and encouraging us about managing our money. For example, I keep receipts and check through them later.

Cash or card?

Both. I have my ATM card and I always carry some cash.

What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?

A new pair of shoes. I really enjoy wearing them.

Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?

I saved up recently for a spa treatment for my mum’s special birthday. At the moment I’m saving towards a summer holiday. Last year, I went to France with mum and a friend.

Have you ever lost money?

No, but I did have my wallet – with over €100 – stolen from me on the Metro in Rome by a pick-pocket. I was very upset when it happened. I couldn’t believe someone would do something like that to me.

Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?

I never have and never will. I think gambling away your money is a stupid idea.

Is money important to you?

Yes, but I haven't paid enough attention to the value of it. However, I feel proud of getting paid for my voice-over job in the role of Punky. It feels like I am getting rewarded for a job well done.

How much money do you have on you now?

€30 and some change.

Aimee Richardson is the voice-over artist behind

Punky

, RTÉ’s animated series about a little girl who has Down Syndrome. Aimee is a member of the European Disability Forum.