It seems hard to believe that just 30 years ago women were routinely refused mortgages in their own name and when mortgages were granted they were on the proviso that a man signed as guarantor. (Mintel Report - Women and Finance)

Even up until the late 1980's a women's income had to be declared on her husbands, tax returns meaning that the husband always knew his wife's annual income yet his wife would not know how much he earned.

These days women have increased control over their own finances. Between 1992 and 2002 Britain saw a 52% rise in women buying property on their own (Charcoal) and according to Halifax in 2003 23% of first time buyers were single females.

Women do still face forms of economic discrimination such as inequalities in state pensions, securing business loans and pay.

We have provided an overview of some of the key financial concerns relevant to women in this changing economical climate. Make sure you're aware of what your rights are and what's available for women financially.