There are lots of ways you can make the most of even the tightest budget, If you follow some of the advice listed below you may well find savings of £20 to £30 per week.
More Income,
- Check whether you’re entitled to any additional benefits such as Job Seekers Allowance, Maternity Benefit, Income Support or Working Family Tax Credit.
- Check whether you’re entitled to any help with rent or Council Tax.
- Check if there's a possibility of extra hours at work, perhaps a second job, bar work etc
- Check for better work opportunities closer to home. Consider the additional costs of your job e.g. childcare, travel time and expense.
- Research childcare in your area. There maybe council/church run nurseries and sometimes grants are available. Use family whenever possible for baby-sitting.
- Look how to gain study grants. You may be able to study part time to improve your prospects while you work.
Lower home costs,
- Reduce monthly subscriptions to mobile phones, Internet and Sky television
- Sell unwanted items in the local classifieds or on the Internet - many newspapers offer free advertisements.
- Cut down on the usage of electricity by not leaving appliances on stand-by. Switch off lights when not in use. Lower thermostat on radiators to reduce heating costs.
- Use your local library for books, CDs, DVDs and videos instead of buying them.
- Instead of using the car for short journeys, consider walking, using a bike or public transport. This will save a surprising amount of money while also improving your fitness and health.
- Enjoy family activities that don’t cost money. Museums, galleries and parks are free and make great days out.
Shop wisely
- Supermarkets own brands can often be just as good as the well-known brands but cheaper.
- Shop once a week and plan your food. Preparing packed lunches could save around £50.00 per month. Freeze left over food and re-use.
Spend less
- Don’t browse around shops and stores, make a shopping list and stick to it.
- Cut down on eating out and takeaways
- Cut down on nights out, drink alcohol in moderation.
- Try to cut down on cigarettes or, if you can, give them up completely.