It’s almost impossible to avoid the allure of the latest gadgets. For mums adept at navigating this digital landscape, the temptation to keep up with the newest releases can be strong. However, with the cost of living on the rise across the UK, it’s more important than ever to exercise financial caution alongside technological enthusiasm.

The good news is that being tech-savvy doesn’t have to come at the expense of your wallet. With some strategic planning, informed choices, and a bit of savvy shopping, you can keep your family at the forefront of the digital age without straining your finances. This blog will serve as your comprehensive guide to making the most out of your tech purchases while keeping costs low. From exploring the benefits of pre-owned gadgets to extending the lifespan of your current devices, we’ve got all the tips you need. So, let’s get started on your journey to becoming both tech-savvy and money-savvy.

Tips To Keep Your Older Phone Running

In a world where new smartphone models are released almost every year, it’s easy to get caught up in the upgrade frenzy. However, frequently replacing your mobile phone can be a significant drain on your finances. The good news is that with proper care and maintenance, your older phone can serve you well for years, reducing the need for frequent, costly upgrades.

Firstly, consider replacing the battery if you notice a decline in its performance. A new battery can breathe new life into an older phone and is far less expensive than buying a new device. Secondly, keep your phone’s software up-to-date. Manufacturers often release updates that improve performance and security, ensuring your device runs efficiently.

Don’t overlook the importance of regular cleaning, both inside and out. Dust and debris can accumulate in charging ports and headphone jacks, affecting functionality. A quick clean with a soft brush can work wonders. Additionally, manage your storage by regularly deleting unused apps and transferring photos and videos to cloud storage or an external device.

Physical damage is one of the leading causes of smartphone demise, and a small investment in repair can save you from splashing out on a new phone. At likewizerepair.co.uk you can arrange mobile repairs on your driveway. Their mobile phone repairs are truly mobile, with a service van visiting your home, ready to complete mobile phone repairs, including screen repairs, on the same day. Looking for a ‘mobile phone repair near me’? There could be one on your doorstep!

The Smart Way To Refresh Your Tech Arsenal

The temptation to grab the latest gadgets is always high, especially with the constant buzz around new releases. But frequent upgrades can be a financial strain, and let’s be honest, not every ‘new’ feature is a game-changer. So, how do you know when it’s genuinely time to part ways with your old tech and invest in a new device, without hurting your pocket or the planet?

First, take a hard look at your current gadget. If it’s still ticking along nicely and doing everything you need, perhaps you can hold off on that upgrade. But if you’re dealing with constant freezes, and sluggishness, or your device is no longer compatible with essential software, it might be time for a change.

Before you dash off to the nearest retailer, explore trade-in opportunities. Many shops and brands offer schemes where you can hand over your old device for a discount on a new one. This approach is not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly, as it ensures your old device gets recycled or refurbished.

Timing your upgrade can also make a significant financial difference. New models usually launch at specific times, often leading to price reductions for older versions. Keep tabs on tech news and seasonal sales to snag the best deals.

Finally, don’t forget to factor in the ‘hidden’ costs, like new accessories or additional software subscriptions that might come with the new device. By being strategic about when and how you upgrade, you can keep your tech life fresh without stretching your budget.

Reduce Your Gadget’s Impact On Your Electricity Bill

We often underestimate the impact our tech gadgets have on our electricity bills. From smartphones and laptops to smart home devices and gaming consoles, each piece of technology consumes energy, and it all adds up. So, how can you ensure that your family’s tech habits don’t send your energy bills skyrocketing?

Firstly, let’s talk about ‘vampire power‘ or ‘phantom load.’ This is the energy consumed by devices when they are plugged in but not in use. To combat this, consider using smart power strips that automatically cut off power to devices that are not in use. Alternatively, make it a habit to unplug chargers and devices when they’re not needed.

Next, adjust the settings on your devices for better energy efficiency. For example, lower the brightness on your screens, enable power-saving modes, and set your computer to go to sleep after a short period of inactivity. These small changes can make a significant difference in your energy consumption. Another tip is to invest in Energy Star-rated devices whenever possible. These products meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the government and can save you money in the long run.

Lastly, be mindful of your usage habits. Limit the time spent on energy-intensive activities like gaming or streaming, especially during peak electricity hours. By taking these steps, you can enjoy your tech to the fullest while keeping your energy bills in check – see more ideas here.

Unearthing Hidden Gems On A Budget

In a world that often glorifies the ‘latest and greatest,’ the value of the second-hand market can’t be overstated. Opting for pre-owned gadgets can save you a significant amount, sometimes even cutting the original price in half. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly choice that helps minimise electronic waste.

Start by doing your homework. Websites like eBay, Gumtree, or even the refurbished sections of official brand websites are great places to hunt for quality, pre-owned tech. Make sure to scrutinise seller ratings, go through customer reviews, and do a price comparison to ensure you’re getting a solid deal.

Be clear about your needs. Jot down the features and specs that are non-negotiable for you. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys that don’t really fit your requirements. Also, check if the item comes with a warranty or a return policy; some pre-owned gadgets do offer limited warranties, giving you an extra layer of security.

Timing your purchase can also make a world of difference. Whenever a new model hits the market, many people list their older gadgets for sale, making it an ideal time to grab a quality device at a fraction of the cost. Always account for any extra expenses like software updates or missing accessories that you’ll need to buy separately. By being strategic and informed, you can find excellent tech for your family in the second-hand market without straining your finances.

From exploring the untapped potential of the second-hand market to implementing energy-efficient practices, there are numerous ways to be both tech-savvy and money-savvy. Timing your upgrades wisely, maintaining your existing devices, and being mindful of hidden costs can make a significant difference to your family’s budget. Remember, the goal is not to compromise on technology but to make smarter choices that benefit both your wallet and the environment. Here’s to enjoying the best of both worlds; cutting-edge tech without the financial stress.

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.

In basic terms insurance is the arrangement by which a company undertakes to provide a guarantee of compensation for specified loss, damage, illness, or death in return for payment of a specified premium. So you pay a fee and then if the unthinkable happens your insurance company will cover the loss.

Most Insurance policies have an excess, which is the amount of money that you have to pay on each claim. For example with our car insurance, we pay the first £200 of any claim we make. If you are struggling with costs it is worth bearing in mind that with policies you legally have to have like car insurance and buildings insurance your policy provider will be able to discuss costs with you and see if they can make it cheaper perhaps by cutting the cover (if applicable), increasing the voluntary excess or offering an alternative product. If you pay annually, they will be able to swap you to monthly (perhaps with a small additional charge).

Types of Insurance

Vehicle Insurance

If you drive you’re legally required to have motor insurance, there are two types, third-party or fully comprehensive. MoneyHelper (formerly the Money Advice Service) has some great information to help in choosing the right level of car insurance cover.

Home Insurance

Home insurance is a type of insurance policy that covers your home in the case of fire, flood, damage or theft of contents.

Contents Insurance

Home contents insurance covers your possessions against fire, theft and other risks, such as accidental damage.  It generally covers the cost of replacing your belongings in your home if they are damaged, destroyed or stolen but you do often have an excess that has to be paid each time you claim. You can also get contents insurance cover for accidental damage. Your ‘contents’ are the items you would take with you if you moved home:

• Furniture
• Kitchenware
• Entertainment
• Soft furnishings
• Electricals
• Clothes and jewellery
• Ornaments and antiques

We have had to recently claim on our home contents policy for the first time ever after an incident with a shelf and my mac! Thankfully our policy covered accidental damage and provided a replacement.

Buildings Insurance

If you have outstanding debt on your property all mortgage providers will insist on you having Buildings Insurance as it is a legal requirement. This covers the structure of your home, the physical building (and detached garage) and the fixtures and fittings inside that are unable to be removed such as windows, bathtubs etc. Even if you don’t have a mortgage it is reckless to not have a building home insurance policy.

We had to claim on our buildings insurance due to a heavy snowfall which came off our roof onto our conservatory and broke the roof panels

Life Insurance

There are quite a few types of life insurance and an independent financial adviser will be best placed to tell you what will work best for your family. You often pay monthly premiums and it is best to think of life insurance as a long-term expense that you put in place for peace of mind.

• Whole life insurance policy is a life cover policy that is in place until you die. It is a lifetime policy that you pay from the start of the policy for your entire life.
• Term life insurance is a life cover policy that runs for a specified number of years for example 25 year term policy.
• Over 50s life cover is a cover that you take once you are over 50 years old. Often you can take out a much more affordable coverage to ensure your funeral costs are covered.

There is also Critical illness coverage, Terminal illness coverage and you can also get Children’s coverage. You can also get policies which cover both partners in a relationship and pays out to the remaining spouse or named beneficiary.

Other Insurances

You can also get lots of other insurance such as pet insurance, health insurance, dental care insurance, renters insurance and motor breakdown coverage. We have what is called a multi-cover policy that covers travel, car breakdown and phone insurance.

Get Quotes or Help

There are lots of Financial comparison sites that can help with quotes but it really does pay to check out new deals around 12 weeks before any renewals are due.

As always it is important to discuss any policies you take out and I recommend talking to an Independent Financial Advisor, to ensure you get the right type of policy for you that offers the correct level of financial protection for your lifestyle and financial goals. It also pays to keep in check as circumstances may change

Other 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

The lower the family income, the more critical the question of creating savings is. A financial cushion will save you temporary work problems, salary delays, and unexpected expenses. Small loans can save for a certain time, but they also must be returned, so the issue becomes even more urgent. How to save, form a financial cushion, but, at the same time, not give up your quality of life? Financial company Payday Depot is ready to answer this question.

How to start saving?

Creating savings is a painstaking process that will require you to review your family budget in detail. Two main rules will help you here:

• Prioritize current and future financial freedom.
• Save money regularly, not occasionally.

If you don’t think you have extra money to put aside, start with the minimum amount. Training the skill of a careful and thoughtful attitude to money can start from childhood, so you will be able to go through the next steps.

Lead personal financial accounting

Keep track of your finances in any convenient way: in a notebook, in a special program, or in an Excel table. A small budget coupled with uncontrolled expenses is a disaster. Accounting should include the most important expenses: for life, food, car maintenance, mandatory loan payments, insurance, education, etc. You cannot write out all the expenses down to the cent, but clear planning together with accounting allows you to keep the budget under control.

Choose a financial goal

Set a goal that will inspire you to save money. Let it have clear deadlines and be clearly defined and achievable. So, it will be easier and more pleasant for you to approach it.

Create a family financial foundation

Keep a reserve in a separate account for urgent needs: for example, medical expenses. If you save about 10% of your income, it will not affect your quality of life, but after a year, a similar amount will become noticeable.

Set clear spending limits

Determine the maximum amount you can spend each week or month and try not to exceed that sum. If you spent less, give yourself a gift and buy something nice for yourself.

Manage money correctly

Many people stand firmly on their feet, although their salary is not higher than the average. It’s all about budget optimization:

• Planning large purchases protects against impulsive spending. The more impulse purchases you have, the worse your financial situation becomes.
• Using credit funds only for large purchases allows you to spend less on loan servicing. Don’t go into debt on things you can easily do without.
• Buy things that are useful instead of something that brings instant gratification but has no real value.
• Take advantage of discounts, and follow the prices of necessary and important things, but do not become victims of marketing. Buying a set of necessary products at attractive prices is a useful business. But take exactly as much as you need because discounts are aimed precisely at the fact that buyers spend more. This is a budget trap. Use discounts but only for your benefit.

All financial experts emphasize the need to keep home accounting. Robert Kiyosaki emphasized that independent money management and personal accounting are the way to financial freedom. At first, you may find it difficult to plan and control your expenses. Eventually, you’ll get used to it, and your finances will become something you can be proud of. As for the quality of life, it will only improve with this approach.

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
• Frugal Living Tips

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

Babies are a wonderful gift, but they come with a huge price tag that lasts a minimum of 18 years. You’re going to need a good budget and a non-negotiable plan to keep your financial security throughout these years. Here are 6 tips that will help older parents retain their financial security during the child-rearing years.

1. Cut Out a Luxury (Or Two!)

Unfortunately, there’s no way around this one. Unless you plan on finding a solid additional source of income then you’re going to need to cut down on some luxuries you may have gotten used to during your child-free years. This doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy some travelling, concerts, or football games, but you should start limiting yourself and being more frugal.

Stick to travelling or attending one event a year and, if you’re flying, go with economy seats instead of premium.

2. Get Additional Income

Unexpected expenses come up with children all the time. Even if you have a great budget that takes into account the enormous costs of childcare, clothing, food, toys, etc., you may still want to find something you can do on the side to bring in a little extra cash.

Thankfully, there are a million things you and your partner can do on and offline to bring in some extra money for your family. If you enjoy driving and helping people out then you could consider driving with Doordash or UberEats. If you’re more of a homebody then consider filling out surveys or blogging.

Another idea that won’t take away your time with your little one is to start babysitting! You can offer to watch your friends’ children (or grandchildren). It’ll help out your friends, give you some extra money, and give your child some playmates. There’s even the option of teaching English for up to £20 per hour with this TEFL course online.

3. Get a Reverse Mortgage

Getting a reverse mortgage after you’ve already paid off your home can seem counter-intuitive, but it’s a great way to get some extra money in your pocket. A reverse mortgage will allow you to receive a check from the bank each month over a period of years until your home’s mortgage has been entirely paid back to you. Certain companies, like All Reverse Mortgage, offer low-interest rates, which will help you receive the best bang for your buck and it won’t lower the equity of your home.

4. Get Back to Couponing

Maybe you used coupons when you were younger or maybe you’ve never tried it before, but couponing can be a great way to get everything you need at a discount. It’s even easier now that there are browser extensions like Honey that will scour the internet for discounts for you and apply them when you go to check out at most websites.

If you’re shopping in-store then you can search online for coupons that will work at the store you’re going to and cover the items you need to buy. Some big retailers also have coupons built into their app which can make this experience even easier and more convenient. Couponing can be a time-consuming process, but it can save you hundreds every month!

5. Save on Your Energy Bills

One of the biggest bills most people face each month is their utilities. There are a few ways you can save on your energy expenses if you do the research. For example, you could replace your lightbulbs with something more energy-efficient to help reduce costs.

Another idea is to put up new blinds. There are some energy-saving blinds that work to keep the temperature regulated in your home. They do this by reflecting the air temperature outside back outside where it belongs and keeping the temperature in your home from needing to be adjusted as frequently. This can save you big money during the winter and summer months.

6. Save on Childcare

The cost of childcare is astronomical when you add it up. Sending your kid to daycare every day of the workweek can amount to what you’d earn with a part-time job all year! You can save on childcare costs by asking friends or family to help out with watching your little one. If that isn’t an option then consider keeping your child at home with you and doing some remote work. Your child will appreciate all the extra time they get to spend with you and your bank account will appreciate the savings.

Final Thoughts

Managing the expenses of life with children can be hard, but it’s possible to stay financially secure even during the child-rearing years. You may have to change the way you’re doing things by couponing, reducing your energy costs, and even getting a side job, but there are ways to help you stay financially secure. I have some more ideas on How to tighten your budget without impacting upon family life here.

Thankfully you won’t need to make any radical changes in in your lifestyle and none of my suggestions will take too much time either. They are all  simple, cost effective, ways to save a little here and there on your energy bills. After all as the saying goes, ‘take care of the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves’!

Here’s how to lower your energy bills

1. Switch energy providers or plans to save up to a fantastic £228 a year.

Over the past few years the government, industry regulators and energy firms themselves have, separately and together, worked to make it easier than ever before to both compare the different energy plans your provider offers and to compare energy providers themselves. By July 2015 the average annual saving made when switching energy tariffs has risen from £138 in 2012 to a whopping £228, thanks to price cuts and increased competition.

The upshot is that by consulting websites such as The Money Advice Service from the government,  comparison sites such as USwitch.com or Compare the Market, and getting tips from energy companies themselves you could make big savings.

2. Price fixing

From time to time we all worry about future price rises, whether energy bills or any other household expenses. The kind of price fixing I’m looking at here isn’t energy companies fixing the market, but rather whether you should fix the price you pay for your gas and electricity for the next 12 months or more.

The latest round of fixed energy tariffs are coming to an end and now could well be the best time lock in the price you pay. As well as potentially saving you money fixing your energy tariff means you avoid variable bills and can better budget.

3. Get energy efficient around the home.

Let’s start in the bathroom. We all take a shower in the morning, they’re faster and use less water than a bath right? Wrong. Modern power showers can use as much water in just five minutes as it takes to fill a bath! An energy efficient showerhead can reduce the amount of water used ny as much as 50%. Less water used equals less water heated, win/ win. Energy efficient showerheads cost between £18 – £45 and could save you up to £70 per year.

Around the house lighting accounts for 18% of energy usage. Energy saving bulbs might initially cost more, but they do use around 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs. According to the Energy Saving Trust each energy efficient bulb can save £3 per year.

Finally, get smart. According to research by USwitch, homes in the UK could collectively save £227m annually by turning devices off. Whilst you can’t always go around the home turning everything off, you can control your power sockets via smart sockets controllable through your smart phone.

4. Chill out

Try turning down the heating during the winter. The average indoor or room temperature in the UK has steadily risen from 12c in 1970 to 17.5c and even higher today. Save money by turning down the thermostat and popping on a jumper, it can save you pounds. The active you are the warmer you are so try moving a bit more and burning some calories whilst saving cash.

Find out more about ways to save on your energy bills and to find a greener supplier visit OVO Energy.

It seems that I am not alone in my concerns, but that they could be misplaced according to the results of a recent survey by Foresters Friendly Society, a mutual financial services provider, which are highlighted in the infographic below. I was surprised by the fact that 73% of the respondents are saving for their children. Perhaps this should not surprise me, but with both my parents being dead I realised that my boys will not have a nest egg or windfall from them like other children might.

Can you change a spender to a saver?

I believe that you can educate your children and that doing it as early as possible gives the best chance of moderating a spender.

As much as I want my children to be smart shoppers and get the best deals, this still focuses on spending.  I want my children to think more frugally and consider if they really need to spend money at all.

I want the boys to ask themselves important questions such as

“Do I really need it?”

“Could I borrow it?”

“Do I have something I could use instead?”

Going from being a spender to being a saver requires a change in attitude and a change in behaviour. So I understand that I need to encourage saving and perhaps incentivise it.

I love that it’s worth making an effort to talk to your kids about money management as over 75% of the teenage respondents have learnt good money sense from their parents, although just under 85% wish that they had received better financial education lessons at school.   So do not rely on school to teach them, make conversations about money and finances something that happens regularly at home.

Foresters Friendly Society offers a range of savings options which may suit your needs, depending on how much you want to save and how long you want to save for. To find out more about them visit www.forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk, keep up to date by following their latest news, @ForestersFriend on Twitter and Foresters Friendly on Facebook.

Is your child a spender or saver?

As a child I didn’t really get pocket money, but I didn’t lose out on anything.  I don’t remember the first thing I saved up for!

Presently we are saving up for a new hall and stair carpet!  Ours is nine years old and threadbare.  We no longer rely on credit and make sure we save up for things that we need.  The Natwest Budget tool is a great way to work out how much you can save each month

Our future short term savings goal is to convert our garage enlarging our kitchen in to it so that we have a larger living space.  The Minimads are growing up and we want to have sufficient space for us all to live comfortably and I want to encourage the boys to bring their friends in to our home. If you are a Natwest customer this is where the savings goal tool comes in to its own.

So what advice would I give my younger self regarding saving?  It would be to do it, anyway that was possible.  To get into a routine and save a percentage of what I earned every month into a savings account.  To NEVER use a store card and to make sure that I had three months of salary saved with easy access to it.  I think that my money personality was to spend, spend, spend and it is hard to change that and it is not what I want for my boys.

This collaboration with Natwest reinforced that encouraging my kids to save one of my parenting goals.

Encouraging kids to save

1. Set regular savings goals – Incentivise saving by offering added rewards at regular agreed set points.  This is why the Pigs from Natwest really worked back in the 80’s
2. Make it visual, saving in a glass jar or even a money box that counts the money makes saving money much more tangible for younger children. Or even have a savings chart with stars and stickers. Open a savings account with a bank book for older kids.
3. Pay interest – pay your child monthly interest on savings they have.  Not only does this encourage them to save their money longer, but it also teaches them about money management.
4. The best way to teach kids to start managing money is to give them some. If they blow their pocket money on the ice cream van and don’t have enough left for later in the week, that’s actually a good thing: They learn first hand the consequence of overspending.
5. Set a goal – Are they saving for a specific item?  if so make them a chart.  Encourage them to find inventive ways to earn money to help them achieve their purchase faster.
6. Save smaller denominations to demonstrate how every penny counts.  The boys both have a large vodka bottle that they fill with pennies and once a year they exchange it for holiday spending money.  It really adds up and Mini is always on the lookout for peoples dropped coins when we are out and about.
7. Make sure you set a good example for your kids. Let them see you making smart decisions about money. Be a role model, let them see you have a savings account and how you shop wisely.  Show how you set up a budget and stick to it.  Money should not be spoken to in hushed tones or b e a dirty word. Make sure you talk to your kids about money and finance. Talk about your work and how your salary is based on the work you do.  If your family is enduring a difficult time, find a way to talk about it an age-appropriate manner
8. Good Things Come to Those Who Wait.  Delayed gratification is one of the hardest money lessons I think. I want to avoid that “buy now, pay later” mentality that could mire the boys in credit card debt later on. So, as much as I can, I reinforce the idea that waiting pays off. But remember that postponement of pleasure is a grown-up characteristic, learned from grown-ups.
9. Teach your children that buying an experience (ie a trip to  a theme park) brings much more happiness than a products (such as an ice cream).  Saving for the experience may take longer or be harder, but it makes memories and makes the experiences so much better
10. Give unexpected bonuses, if you kids have done something particularly well or been particularly helpful then give them a surprise reward.