There’s no single way to carry out this research, but there are some good main areas to be aware of. From looking for a reputable supplier to checking reviews, here are some signs to look out for during your search.

Reputable stocker

One of our top tips when it comes to buying reputable wet weather gear is to carry out your search via a reputable clothing stocker. Companies such as Stormline specialise in identifying and stocking only the highest quality items, carrying out their due diligence so that you don’t have to. 

Of course, it’s possible that they’ll make a mistake in their product selection, but it’s a great way of narrowing down your research from the very beginning. On the off chance that you end up with something unsuitable, then these kinds of suppliers are also far more likely to offer you a refund. 

Well known fabric

Another promising sign of high quality with wet weather gear is if the item is made from a well-known fabric such as GoreTex. Often producers of high-quality fabrics only allow other companies to use their products if they’re satisfied that the items will be made to a consistently high standard. While it’s not the only thing you should watch out for, it’s a good sign to consider along with the others mentioned on this list.

Good fit

Ultimately, you don’t just want a wet weather gear that’s made out of a good fabric with strong seams – you also need it to be a good fit. While you can look at reviews to see what people say about the cut, in many cases, the only really effective way of assessing the fit is to try the item on. 

With most of us doing our shopping online nowadays, it’s obviously a bit more complicated to try things on. Try to find it in a store nearby that stocks them, or buy a few different sizes from an online supplier that offers quick and easy returns. 

Reviews

Lastly, it’s always a good idea to take a look at some impartial reviews of the brand and specific product you’re considering buying. If possible, find a reviewer who tests items while doing similar activities to yours, whether that’s working on a farm or taking the dog for a walk. This way, you’ll be able to gain a more thorough understanding of how the garments will hold up while you’re using them.

When doing your research, it’s important to think about what you’ll need your wet weather gear for. Make sure that you tailor your search for specific items and functions, or you’ll likely find that you end up being overwhelmed by the sheer breadth of choice typical of the modern market.

Casual Daytime Look

During the day, you’ll want to keep things light, breezy, and comfortable. A summer mini dress is perfect for staying cool while looking chic. Opt for dresses in breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or light blends that won’t weigh you down as temperatures rise.

Footwear Selection

Pair your mini dress with flat sandals or espadrilles for a relaxed daytime vibe. These choices not only keep you comfortable but also add a casual touch to your ensemble. If you need to walk a lot, consider stylish sneakers which offer both comfort and trendiness.

Accessory Choices

For daytime accessories, less is more. A broad-brimmed hat can protect you from the sun while adding a stylish flair to your outfit. Sunglasses are another essential; go for retro or aviator styles to elevate your look. Consider a simple tote bag or a crossbody bag that won’t feel cumbersome during your daytime activities. Light, natural-looking jewelry like small hoop earrings or a delicate bracelet will finish off the look.

Transitioning to a Semi-Formal Afternoon

If your day involves a semi-formal lunch or a more business-casual setting, small adjustments can make all the difference. Swap your flat shoes for a pair of low block heels or wedges. These provide a slightly more polished appearance without sacrificing comfort.

Clothing Layers

Add a lightweight blazer or a tailored denim jacket. This not only offers a smart touch but also prepares you for cooler indoor temperatures. If you’re heading to an outdoor venue, a chic shawl or scarf may be all you need.

Upgrading Accessories

Elevate your accessories by switching to a structured handbag. Add a statement necklace or a pair of standout earrings to give your outfit a more purposeful look. Consider pulling back your hair into a sleek ponytail or a neat bun to complement the semi-formal attire.

Evening Elegance

When evening falls, it’s time to transform your mini dress into an elegant, sophisticated outfit suitable for a night out or even a formal event. The key here is making bold, impactful changes.

Footwear Changes

Trade your daytime flats for a pair of high heels or strappy sandals. Metallic or embellished shoes can add that glittering touch perfect for evening occasions.

Outerwear and Layers

Add a glamorous touch with a stylish blazer or a chic, fitted leather jacket. If you’re attending an upscale event, a light shawl or a stole can offer a touch of sophistication and keep you warm as the night cools off.

Evening Accessories

Switch to a clutch or a small, elegant handbag. Layer on some statement jewelry—think chandelier earrings, a bold cuff bracelet, or a dramatic necklace. Consider adding a belt to cinch your waist and create a more defined silhouette, which can transform the entire look of your mini dress.

Hair and Makeup

Evening looks usually call for bolder makeup. Think smoky eyes, a bold lip, or a luminous highlighter to elevate your features. Your hair can make a significant impact, too. Soft waves, a sleek straight look, or an elegant updo can make your look more sophisticated and well put together.

Conclusion

A summer mini dress is incredibly versatile and can be your go-to piece for all types of occasions. With some thoughtful adjustments, you can transition this single item from a casual day in the sun to an elegant evening soiree. The right footwear, layers, and accessories are your best friends in making this transformation effortless. So the next time you reach for that mini dress, remember that its potential extends far beyond just one type of event. Embrace the versatility and enjoy the myriad ways to style your summer mini dress from day to night.

For families balancing style and budget, recognising the importance of such enduring pieces becomes paramount. Opting for quality doesn’t always mean breaking the bank, but it does involve recognising when an investment will bear fruit for years to come.

As we journey through this exploration, we’ll uncover the art of discerning those essential items worthy of our hard-earned money, laying the foundation for a style that transcends mere trends.

Building A Foundation: Key Wardrobe Essentials

The foundation is where everything begins, especially in the grand architecture of personal style. It’s easy to become enchanted by the glitz and glamour of seasonal trends, but the bedrock of any enduring wardrobe rests on a few key pieces that serve as cornerstones.

Think of the crisp white shirt, tailored to perfection, or that pair of jeans that hugs your form just right, evoking comfort without compromising elegance. For our kids, it might be those durable sneakers which can withstand countless playground escapades or the classic cardigan that seamlessly transitions from school to family gatherings.

Focusing on these pillars means establishing a base that complements our individuality and offers the versatility to adapt to various occasions. And while it might be tempting to cut corners here, remember that these items are where quality truly counts. A well-made foundational piece lasts longer and retains its allure over time, making it an investment in every sense of the word.

Understanding The Value of Quality

There’s a tangible difference between something merely wearable and crafted with care. The weight of a well-made fabric, the stitch that holds firm season after season, and the colours that don’t fade even after countless washes are testaments to the quality that our families deserve.

However, understanding quality goes beyond the tactile. It’s also about the peace of mind when your toddler’s shoes last beyond their first summer or when a cherished dress transitions seamlessly from office meetings to parent-teacher conferences. Not only this, but it’s about the gentle assurance that in a world filled with disposable fashion, you’re investing in pieces that respect craftsmanship, sustainability, and longevity. In essence, embracing quality is a financial decision and a statement about what we value daily.

Determining When To Splurge: Factors to Consider

It’s a familiar predicament: standing in a shop, an item in hand, deliberating whether it’s worth the price tag. But when is it truly time to indulge in that splurge? First, consider the frequency of use. If it’s something you or your family will wear consistently, it’s often worth investing the extra pounds. Think about the timeless trench coat or a durable school backpack. Next, research the brand. Are they known for their craftsmanship? Do they prioritise sustainable materials and ethical practices?

Consider the item’s longevity, both in style and durability. Classic cuts and neutral tones tend to remain relevant across seasons. Finally, weigh the emotional value. Sometimes, a piece holds sentimental worth, like a special occasion dress or a family heirloom. When deciding to invest more, it’s about blending practical considerations with those intangible feelings of joy and connection.

Curating Your Timeless Collection: Step-by-Step

Embarking on the journey to curate a timeless wardrobe can be thrilling and daunting. It’s akin to crafting a personal museum, with garments that tell stories and transcend fleeting moments. Begin by evaluating your current collection. What do you often reach for, and what gathers dust? Once you have this clarity, prioritise essentials that fit your lifestyle, whether a structured blazer for work meetings or sturdy boots, such as the iconic Dr. Martens, for family outings.

Research brands renowned for their quality and ethical practices. Armed with this knowledge, set a budget. Splurging on timeless pieces doesn’t mean overspending; it’s about recognising true value. If you want to keep costs low, watch for any bargains in sales. For instance, you could look at the Dr. Martens sale at SuperSales to find a pair for your wardrobe. Lastly, ensure each addition seamlessly integrates with your existing items, fostering versatile combinations. With patience and intention, families can craft wardrobes that not only echo their style but also resonate with their values, presenting a curated collection that stands the test of time.

Wise Investment: Long-Term Savings And Satisfaction

The allure of an attractive price tag is undeniable. In an age of instant gratification and flash sales, it’s easy to be swayed by short-term savings. Yet, the true essence of a wise investment unfolds over time. When we select a well-crafted leather boot or a meticulously woven winter coat, we’re not just purchasing an item but securing countless moments of comfort, style, and assurance. These are the pieces that, years down the line, remain unfazed by countless wears and seasonal shifts.

The initial expenditure often amounts to mere pennies per use over these numerous moments. Beyond the tangible savings, there’s the intangible joy of owning something that fits just right, looks impeccable, and tells a story of discernment. For families, such investments underscore a deeper lesson: the value of patience, foresight, and cherishing quality over quantity.

Caring For Your Investments: Maintenance And Longevity

Every treasured piece in our wardrobe resembles a cherished novel on a bookshelf: its value is magnified when cared for with attention and love. Splurging on quality is only half the story; the other half unfolds in the careful maintenance that ensures these items stand the test of time. Start by understanding the unique care requirements of each piece: Does it prefer hand washing, or is it averse to direct sunlight?

Using quality detergents, respecting fabric instructions, and occasionally investing in professional cleaning can breathe extended life into your garments. Similarly, timely repairs—a restitched button, a reinforced hem—can prevent minor issues from becoming irreparable damages. For families, this journey of care becomes a teaching moment: nurturing respect for belongings and understanding that with privilege comes responsibility. Our wardrobe investments yield long-term dividends in these small, consistent acts, both in durability and pride.

Embracing Personal Style: Your Unique Take On Timelessness

Timelessness, while rooted in classics, is far from a one-size-fits-all concept. In our life’s tapestry, each of us weaves a unique pattern, a personal narrative that shines through our style choices. Maybe your version of timeless is a well-fitted blazer adorned with brooches that tell tales of your travels. Perhaps it’s a family heirloom, a watch or a necklace that pairs seamlessly with your modern outfits.

Encouraging our children to blend foundational pieces with their burgeoning tastes can be a joyous journey of discovery. In these mergers of classic and personal, that true style is born—a style that doesn’t just echo global standards but resonates with individual essence. Embracing this personalised timelessness empowers families to move beyond mere fashion, crafting wardrobes that are authentic reflections of their histories, aspirations, and quirks.

Time To Cultivate Your Wardrobe

As we thread the needle between today’s fleeting fashion trends and enduring style, we’re not just curating wardrobes but crafting legacies. These choices, echoing personal nuances and universal truths, become lessons in value, sustainability, and self-expression for our children. They learn that while the allure of the moment is strong, there’s unparalleled satisfaction in cherishing something that stands the test of time.

Families find their sartorial voice in this harmonious blend of quality and authenticity—a voice that tells tales of discerning choices, cherished memories, and deep-rooted respect for craftsmanship years down the line. Ultimately, our wardrobe choices are more than fabric and thread; they reflect our values, histories, and hopes for the future.

If you want to save money on groceries and food shopping, a piece of general advice is to look for deals at Latest Deals, their website publishes hundreds of new deals daily, and you will be able to find discounted groceries and food. They also have a supermarket comparison tool, allowing you to find the lowest price for a specific product. Make sure to check their website to start saving tons of money. 

So many of us are feeling the financial pinch at the moment and according to Netmums the average family of four in the UK spends £409 a month on groceries and food shopping and WRAP shows that the average family with children throw away on average £60 worth of food a month. So there are defiantly ways to save money on our grocery shopping.

20+ Ways to to Save Money on Groceries

This list includes easy ways to save money that you can start using right now. Tips that will help you make savings straight away.

1) Meal plan

I swear by meal planning – so much so I wrote a whole post on how to meal plan and stick to it. This is the biggest way I save money, but only buying the food we need when we need it and, therefore, reducing waste.

2) Write a shopping list

Following on from meal planning take a shopping list with you to the supermarket and only buy what is on it! A grocery list and a grocery budget will help you keep your shopping on track and srtop those impluslse purchares.

3) Shop Online

Buying your groceries online often makes it easier to stick to a shopping list, as it eliminates the temptations presented when walking around the supermarket. It’s also easy to search for the specific items on your list, making your shopping experience quick and easy. You can also save on fuel by shopping online.

4) Downscale your shopping trollet

One way of instantly making savings in the supermarket is to ‘downscale’ your brand choices. For example, if you usually buy the most popular brand name products ie Heinz Baked Beans, you would simple ‘drop down’ a level and try the Premium supermarket brand instead.

Likewise, if you usually buy premium supermarket brands, you can downscale to regular store brands, and then to the basics range.

Downscaling your shopping basket has to include an element of trial and error, while you discover which items you are happy to downscale on and which you simply can’t compromise on. However, simply downscaling on some items can save a considerable amount on your groceries bill up to £1000 according to Money Supermarket.

5) Change Where you Shop

I am not ashamed to admit we are an Aldi family. Our closet supermarket is Aldi, however, we were Aldi shoppers long before they were the closest as they were the cheapest for us. But we also shop at B&M, Home Bargains and Lidl too!

6) Buy Frozen

Frozen fruit and vegetables is often so much cheaper and you don’t lose any taste or vitamins compreaed to free. Cardiff Mum on Instagram, has been working with Aldi and she has a great 5 meals for £25 using Aldi’s frozen food.

7) Use Free Supermarket Loyalty Schemes 

If the supermarket you shop at has a loyalty card then make sure you use it. When a loyalty card is free there is no reason not to have one.

• The Sainsbury’s Nectar card 
• My Waitrose 
• Tesco Clubcard
• Co-op membership
• Morrisons More
• Marks & Spencer Sparks
• Iceland’s Bonus Card
• Asda Rewards
• Lidl Plus

8) Bulk Buy

There are savings to be made if you bulk purchase or buy from a big box store like Costco, but beware that you can only save if you stick to your shopping list nad do not get tempted to buy more than you planned. Also you need to factor in any memberships fees for wholesale clubs which are usually an annual fee. You really MUST know your unit prices.  

I have noticed that sometimes the largest washing powder box isn’t actually the most cost-effective one to buy. The other thing to note about bulk buying is that you won’t make a saving if you get through the bulk purchase just as quickly as if you’d bought a smaller size or amount. I find this to be a particular problem if I *ahem* bulk buy chocolate!

9) Never Shop when You are Hungry

I know it sounds simple, but honestly you make poor nutritional choices if you shop when you are hungry and this is backed by research (just look it up)! You will be surprised at how many impulse buysare hunger driven!

10) Know the difference between a ‘best-before’ and ‘use-by’ date

Past use-by date? Bin it! Use-by means just that. Eating nosh beyond that date is risky, even if it looks and smells fine. Typical foods to watch include dairy, milk, fish and eggs.
 

Past best-before date? Still edible but may lose flavour/texture. Best-before labels usually have nothing to do with safety; they’re just the manufacturer’s view of when they’re at optimum quality. This is usually longer-lasting foods such as frozen meals, tins, sugar, pasta and cereals.You can eat after the best before. Use smell, taste and sight to check it’s OK. If so, the only downside’s that the food may lose some flavour and texture. Love Food Hate Waste is great for more advise on this.

11) Buy Seasonally at the Market

If you have the luxury of a local market, farmers market or veg shop then it will be less edxpeinseive to buy seasonal produce there. that will help to save money on your groceries

12) Become a ‘Whoops Warrior’

Different supermarkets tend to reduce items at certain points of the day.It pays to work out when your local supermarket sticks on those yellow labels and try to shop around it – My Dad was amazing at this and had a relationship with his local supermarket!

13) Buy Beyond Best-Befores

Not only is it usually safe to eat food items beyond best-befores, it’s legal to sell them. The online store, Approved Food, specialises in out-of-date stock at around a third of the price. Delivery’s £3 per box and there’s a minimum spend of £22.50, so it’s really only worth it if you’re bulk-buying. 

14) Ditch the Ready Meals

Learn to cook your favorite ready meals, they will be so much less expensive and it you batch cook you can have one in the freezer for next time. There are lots of really great recipes online that will help you ditch the ready meals.

15) Store your food correctly

Check the best way to store different foods so they don’t go off before you get to use them. Check use-by dates too. If you don’t have a plan to use something before its use-by date, can you freeze it?

16) Compare Supermarket Prices

If there is a barnded product that you can not do without then compare prices with a site such as Trolly or SupermarketCompare You can also set alerts for when the price of your favourite drop. They looks at the supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Waitrose, Ocado, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Iceland, Co-op, Boots and Wilko.

17) Use Coupons

While it is still possible to clip coupons out of a magazine or newspaper, there are now fewer of these coupons available. Like many things, couponing has largely gone digital so it is worth having the supermarket apps on your phone or doing a quick google search before shopping.

18) Check Your Receipt for Wrong Prices

If you notice an error on your receipt after checking out, take it to the customer service desk and let them know. They’ll return your money if you were overcharged on your grocery bill.

19) Reduce the amount of Meat you Eat

Veggie and vegan diets have become more popular in recent years. Of course, this is very much a personal choice – for some, giving up meat may not seem like a simple step. Yet many people have switched for environmental reasons – and you may well find you end up saving as a result too.

20) Know what you have

Make sure you have an inventory of what you have in the refrigerator, freezer, pantry and store cupboard. You fo not need to but yet another tin of tomatoes no matter the cost if you have 10 already.

21) Try Low Aisle Shopping or a different aisle

Sounds mad I know but ofdtren supermarkets put the cheaper staples on the lowest shelf as people tend to shop more at eye level. Also cotton buds are often cheaper in the baby isle and you can get much better deals on spices in the world food aisle.

22) Get a Good Cash Back Credit Card on Groceries

Did you know you can put hundreds of pound back in your wallet every year just by changing the plastic you use at the supermarket register? Of course, this tip is only for those who pay off their bills in full each month. If you don’t, you’ll pay more interest than you’ll get back in rewards.

Other Energy & Money Saving Tips:

• How to tighten your budget without impacting upon family life
• How to Save Energy when Cooking
• Budgeting Tips for University Students
• Frugalist Guide to Staying Fashionable on A Budget
• How to create a magical Christmas on a budget
• Teaching kids budgeting – Cash versus card
• Cooking with kids – budgeting, buying and cooking
• Creating a family budget
• Budget Pouches and Cash Budgeting
• Decorating on a Budget
• Rising Costs of Energy and Inability to Pay – An insiders guide
• Money Saving Tips For A Cosy Garden All Year
• Eight Ways to Help You Be Responsible with Money
• Money-saving tips for UK family holidays
• How to be a Savvy Spender this Christmas

We all know that swapping to more energy-efficient devices will reduce bills in the long term, however, we are not all in the position to be able to spend money to save money and a more efficient boiler would be the biggest money saver is also one of the largest home spends. So these tips to save energy in the bathroom are ones that are practical and not too expensive. Whilst we are talking about saving the planet and energy why not check out some sustainable bathroom products.

For such a small room, the bathroom sees a lot of water and electricity use throughout the day. Long, hot and deep baths to relieve stress, and steamy showers to get ready for the day ahead can mean a lot of time with the water running. It also means there are lots of opportunities to reduce energy consumption as well.

Reduce temperatures

Approximately 28% of your heating bill can be spent on heating water in your home and most of this heated water will be used in your bathroom. By reducing water temperatures in the shower, bath and through your taps, you could reduce your household energy usage. Your hot water cylinder thermostat should be set at 60-65ºC. This is high enough to kill off harmful bacteria such as Legionella, it also means you’re not paying to overheat the water.

Insulate your Hot Water Tank

If your hot water tank doesn’t have a cover or if it is less than 75mmthick or it does not completely cover the tank all the way around then you may want to add one as it will help maintain the water in the tank for longer and also reduce heatloss by around75% saving around £40 a year.

Replace baths with shorter showers

Swapping to showers instead of baths could help to reduce your water usage and could save you around £10 on your utility bills. You could make even more savings by reducing the amount of time you spend in the shower — getting out just one minute earlier could help you save up to £8 a year.

Buying a more efficient shower head can save you as much as £18 per person a year on energy bills, these aerate the waster to maintain pressure and are water saving.

Swap to LED lights

If your bathroom light bulb needs changing, replace it with an LED bulb. Across an average house, replacing old incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs could save £55 a year according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Use the Bathroom Fan Moderately

Many bathrooms have an exhaust fan or exterior wall to remove moist humid air and smells from the room. It is important to keep the fan clean for it to run efficiently many work on a motion sensor or are linked to when the light goes on and off. If your fan doesn’t have a timer on it then it can be worth adding as it doesn’t need to be on long after the room is vacated.

Unplug Devices

Don’t leave your electric toothbrush or electric razor plugged in, Even if they are not charging they will still be using electricity. So-called vampire appliances continue to suck energy even if they are turned off.

Bathroom Water Saving Tips

We obviously use a lot of water in our bathrooms, so can save a large amount of water just by changing a few things and making developing new habits:

• Switching from baths to showers
• Using a dual flush toilet (a little flush for a wee and a longer one for a number two).
• instaling water aerators on taps and showers (they work by adding air to the water and reducing the amount of water released). They could save you £25 a year on energy bills, plus an additional £13 on water bills if you’re on a meter.
• Installing a water-saving or low-flow shower head (most newer ones are already water-saving, but older ones are less water efficient)
• Not leaving the tap running when brushing your teeth can save 10 litres of water a minute according to the Energy Saving Trust.
• Getting any leaking or dripping taps fixed.
• Fill the sink half full rather than all the way when washing your face.

Other Energy & Money Saving Tips:

• How to tighten your budget without impacting upon family life
• How to Save Energy when Cooking
• How to Save Money on Heating Costs this winter
• Budgeting Tips for University Students
• Frugalist Guide to Staying Fashionable on A Budget
• How to create a magical Christmas on a budget
• Teaching kids budgeting – Cash versus card
• Cooking with kids – budgeting, buying and cooking
• Creating a family budget
• Budget Pouches and Cash Budgeting
• Decorating on a Budget
• Rising Costs of Energy and Inability to Pay – An insiders guide
• Money Saving Tips For A Cosy Garden All Year
• Eight Ways to Help You Be Responsible with Money
• Money-saving tips for UK family holidays
• How to be a Savvy Spender this Christmas

One of my online friends works in the energy industry and I asked her for her opinion on things and how people can take action – So over to them

I’ve worked in the energy industry – in the retail sector (the people you pay you bill to) and in the wider strategy and planning of the energy industry for over 20 years, I saw price rises coming last year but even I couldn’t imagine a capped price level higher than £2000 ( The price cap is the maximum amount suppliers can charge customers in England, Scotland and Wales for each unit of energy used). With all my knowledge, experience and exposure to the detail if I couldn’t see it – there was nothing you could have done to protect yourself from the energy rises. This crisis isn’t something created by the customer, it is a crisis created by a governmental lack of planning and intervention and the unexpected war in Ukraine. So start off by excusing yourself for not being prepared for it- no one was.

Having sky-high energy bills is not your fault, you couldn’t have avoided it.

The real solutions to this are long term and need massive government intervention, including an overhaul of markets and systems; and time to build some new infrastructure (let’s leave aside the question of nationalisation, these other problems need to be solved whether we have a nationalised industry or one operated by companies). The long-term solutions matter and I think we should all be asking our elected politicians what they are going to do- locally and nationally. But these solutions will not get us through the winter and the potentially even harder 2023.

The first thing you can do is the thing we’ve all thought of- cut your energy usage where you can- and there are lots of resources out there to help with that. But let’s be honest, we live in a country where it gets cold in the winter, it gets dark early and we need to eat warm meals, we need to use energy.

What to do if you can’t afford to pay for the energy you use?

Firstly, across the board the energy companies are committed to supporting their customers through this period, in fact, they have to, they know very acutely that their customers are going to struggle to pay. The people who answer your calls when you phone your energy company are in the same position as you. It may not always seem like it but it is in no one’s interest to cut you off or to harass you for energy debt. So what should you do?

Most companies will be offering a fixed or flexible price tariff that is higher than the current cap in addition to the cap price. I would avoid signing up for these, although you will be locking in a price for a longer time (although likely only 12 months) it is likely you will end up paying more overall as these products have no limit on how much profit the company can earn (compared to the price cap where the maximum a company can earn is 1.96%). Although the energy price cap is expected to keep going up and not feel like much of a “cap” it is likely to be the best option for the next 12-18 months.

If you already pay by Direct Debit (most of us do) then your prices are the lowest they can be. You may be tempted to cancel your Direct Debit payment to keep control of what you pay but if you do that you will default to a higher price- for the average customer this will add around £215 to your bill for the year.

If your payment is more than you can afford and you are in financial hardship then you need to speak to your supplier and explain what you can afford to pay and they should work with you on this (Suppliers must work with you to agree on a payment plan you can afford under Ofgem rules. – if they won’t, tell them you want to complain. Suppliers are managed by their complaints and their resolution time so it is in their interest to find an agreement that works. (If you don’t pay Direct Debit it is worth considering as this saving is significant).

You can find your supplier’s number on your bill or on their website. Make a note of who you speak to when you called and any outcome. Alternatively, you can write to them – the citizens advice has a letter template to use.

While you continue to make payments your supplier is extremely unlikely to take any debt follow-up action, which in some cases could include disconnection (If you’ve reached State Pension age, your supplier can’t disconnect you between 1 October and 31 March if you either live alone, or live only with other people who have reached State Pension age, or are children under 18). The key is to keep communicating, you are not alone in being in this situation as thousands of people have already started having these conversations with their suppliers even before the October price rise. Suppliers have a duty of care and have to be reasonable. If you don’t agree a payment plan with your supplier, they might try to force you to have a pre-payment meter installed.

No matter how you pay there is additional support that may be available through your supplier so please ask if there is any support they can give you. This can range from support from an external charity that provides financial advice and debt counselling support to financial contributions to your energy usage. If you are elderly, receive benefits, or have a disabled member of your household you may be able to receive additional help which your supplier will arrange for you.

Finally, it may look from the outside that the companies are sitting back and making record profits (and some are making disgusting levels of profit, that is for another debate) but for the most part suppliers are operating on wafer-thin margins and are lobbying hard within government to get direct customer support on a daily basis and progress is being made. They know how hard this feels for everyone and no one is looking to make it harder for the customer, after all that costs money that they can’t make back from increasing prices. But I know from personal experience that knowing you have a growing debt hanging over you is hard to ignore so keep talking to your supplier, keep talking to those around you to remind you that you are not alone in this crisis.

And in case it’s not clear, I’d always advise against voting Tory.

Helpful Information

Government Help with Bills – Find out if you are eligible on the government’s Help for Households website. This includes help for low-income families and pensions or others on benefits such as energy bill discounts, the winter fuel payment, cost of living payment details, Disability Cost of Living Payments, Pensioner Cost of Living Payment, the cold weather payment and Warm Home Discount.

Citizens Advice Debt Advice – Get in touch with a debt adviser

You can contact Stepchange for free advice if you are having trouble paying your energy bills. Their online debt advice service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

The following energy suppliers offer grants to their customers:

• British Gas Energy Support Fund – apply for a grant on the British Gas Energy Trust website
• Scottish Power Hardship Fund – apply for a grant on the Scottish Power Hardship Fund website
• Ovo Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the Ovo Energy Fund website
• Bulb Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the Bulb Energy Fund website
• E.ON Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the E.ON Energy Fund website
• E.ON Next Energy Fund – apply for a grant on the E.ON Next Energy Fund website
• Octopus ‘Octo Assist Fund’ – apply for a grant on the Octopus website
• EDF Energy Customer Support Fund – sign up to the priority services register to apply for a grant on the EDF Energy website
• British Gas Energy Trust (not just for British Gas Customers) – Apply for a grant on the British Gas Energy Trust website

Check if you can get a local energy grant on the Simple Energy Advice website.

Charis offers a range of schemes to help those with utility debt, both individuals and small businesses including hardship funds and temporary assistance.

If you are a pensioner, disabled or have a medical condition (or someone in your household is) then your energy network might consider you vulnerable and you might be able to get extra help and support from your energy supplier by signing up to the Priority Services Register.

Turn2us has a grants search tool to help you find out what support you might get and also have information on benefits and information on help with paying energy and water bills.

You may also be able to repay your debt directly from your benefits through the Fuel Direct Scheme.

If you need mental health advice right now

You can also get help now on the Mind website. 

You can find a local NHS urgent mental health helpline on the NHS website. 

You can also call the Samaritans at any time on 116 123

I know how expensive the summer break can be and I am all for finding fun inexpensive, or better still free activities that the kids can do. Things that get you out of the house. The more you look the more activities you will find. I always find The Primary Times and local Facebook Groups are a great place to find local activities.

15 Free Summer Activities

HobbyCraft Kids Craft Clubs – Over the summer Hobbycraft stores are hosting free 30 minute and 1 hour craft workshops in store. Children can make slime, decorate ceramics or make a wind chime.

Pets at Home Workshops – How many parents take their kids to the free zoo, otherwise, know as Pets at Home? Throughout the summer Pets at Home stores are hosting free workshops twice a week for 7 – 11-year-olds.

Apple Summer Camp – three day free workshops for children aged 8–12 where they can explore their creativity through fun, hands-on projects across including coding and art & design. Check out your local Apple store for information.

LEGO Mini Builds – If you have children between 6 and 14 the Lego Mini Build if perfect. Staff will show your kids how to make the model, which is worth around £5 (but not for sale). Once it’s been made the kids can then take it home for free.

Dobbies Garden Centres – Little Seedlings is Dobbies free summer holiday gardening club for 4 to 10 year olds. They are offering free hour-long sessions ar various locations throughout the UK.

Microsoft Workshops – Unformtuatly these are only in London at the moment. But if you are London based then the Microsoft sore in Picadilly has some free great summer camps on.

Disney Store – Fancy making your own Forky or designing a lion mane, then the Disney Store has some fab summer workshops over the summer.

Learn to Fish – The Canal and Riverside Trust are offering free fishing lessons throughout the UK over the summer. All the bait and equipment is provided, so all you need to do is book in and turn up on the day

Free Tennis – Sports Charity Tennis for Free is offering free lessons through the UK for children of all abilities.

Summer Reading Challenge – Visit your local library to enrol in this summers reading challenge. Designed for children aged 4 to 11. Kids that take part receive a special reward each time they read a book and a certificate once they complete it. You could also print off our summer colouring bookmarks in preparation for the challenge.

The Entertainer Instore Events – If you have a local Entertainer store then they have a selection of events over the summer such as a Hama Fun Day or meet your (or your children) favourite character!

Check out you Local Authority – Local councils across the UK are running a host of free activities and events for families. Simply enter your postcode into the local authority finder and find out what’s going on in your area this summer.

Swim Safe Session – Run by the RNLI for children aged 7 – 14 (who can swim 25 meters) this free one-hour session is to learn all about how to stay safe in the water and what to do if something goes wrong

Free Junior Parkruns – These are 2k runs for children held in areas of open space around the UK and Ireland. They are open to all. The courses are marshalled so that juniors will be in sight of at least one marshal at all times.

Local Shopping Centers – Not only do a lot of the shops have free events on as you can see from above, but a lot of the centres do too. You could meet Paw Patrol at a local Intu centre.

Museums and Galleries

It is always checking our your local museums and art galleries for events. You can find a fabulous list of 170 free museums and galleries here.

MIMA – Middlesbrough Insitute of Modern Art is our local gallery and they have free family activities that run throughout the summer.

What would you add?

Have I missed anything? I would love to make this as comprehensive as possible. So leave me a comment below and I will add it.

So firstly what is isa season?

In very basic terms it is a six week period in the lead up to when you have to subscribe to your Is, the 5 April 2012 (if you don’t use it, you lose it).

This often means that you can be bombarded with information telling you to  open a cash isa on the lead up to this date and if can be very confusing.

So what is an isa?

A Cash isa is a  savings accounts where the interest isn’t taxed.

A stocks and share isa  is a managed collective investment again where the interest isnt taxed.

Should I prepare for isa season?

I decided to ask MadDad this and he said he would advise anyone to make an appointment with a Independent Financial adviser to discuss this.   My first response was that IFA’s are for people with money, to which he told me this isn’t at all true.   Many IFA’s get their payment from any investment you make through them or charge a nominal fee and they are perfect for people who are going through major life changes such as parents.  They can often take an overview of a situation and help you put your new priorities in perspective.

People often think that isa’s are only for people with money and that they are not something that they can utilise to manage their finances, but again it is often about working smarter not harder and in today’s climate we need to know the best way of making our money work for us.

But don’t take my word for it, go and see a professional!

We would love to hear about how you stick to a budget, choose appropriate family rewards, spend your money wisely and if your shopping habits have changed recently compared to previous years.

I know how hard it can be to budget well in the current financial climate and talk a lot about saving money on my other blog A Thrifty Mum.  But we really want to hear from you and I hope that together we can share some brilliant top tips that will help us all.  Even though I often write about family money saving I still have a lot to learn and I love getting new tips and ideas.

And as if sharing your knowledge and learning new ways of saving money wasn’t enough to tempt you to join in, there’s even going to be prizes!

The party’s being sponsored by Barclaycard and their Freedom Rewards credit card. This new reward card is potentially very useful for organised spenders who pay their balance off every month, as you earn points on everything you spend, that you can then redeem in a range of high street stores (check out www.barclaycard.co.uk/freedomrewards)!

I’d love you to spread the word for us a little – more people joining in with #savvyspender means more money saving tips for us all.

See you there