Skipping meals to pay bills: what to do if you can’t afford food and bills Skipping meals so you can pay bills is a sign that your budget is under serious pressure. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means the cost of essentials may now be more than your income can cover. Recent research from…
How to talk to kids about money Talking to children about money can feel uncomfortable, especially if money feels tight in your own household. You might worry they’re too young or feel unsure what to say. You don’t need to be an expert to talk to kids about money in a helpful way. The most…
It’s hard not to compare your finances to other people’s.
It can sometimes feel like everyone else is doing better with money — saving more, spending more comfortably, or moving ahead faster.
Managing family finances on a tight budget Managing family finances on a tight budget can feel hard, especially when food, energy, rent, mortgage payments and childcare costs are taking up more of your income. Recent data from the Money and Pensions Service shows that 49% of UK adults are struggling to keep up, falling behind,…
Debt consolidation vs debt management plan: what’s the difference? Debt consolidation and Debt Management Plans (DMPs) are two ways to manage multiple debts. With debt consolidation, you take out new credit, such as a loan or credit card, to pay off existing debts. Debt consolidation is more commonly used by people who can still access…
What’s the difference between gross and disposable income? When you’re trying to get a handle on your finances, it’s easy to get confused by the terms flying around, especially when it comes to your income. But what do the terms ‘gross income’, ‘net income’ and ‘disposable income’ actually mean, and more importantly, which one tells…
When the cost of everyday essentials keeps rising, it’s easy to feel like your money simply doesn’t stretch far enough anymore. If you’re struggling to cover food, bills or rent, you’re not alone. Many households across the UK are facing exactly the same challenge. This guide will explain why the cost of living has become…
What is disposable income? Wondering what the meaning of disposable income is? You might have heard this term but not been completely sure what it actually refers to or why it matters. Put simply, disposable income is the money left over once you’ve paid your taxes, priority debts, and essential expenses like rent, mortgage, bills,…
What should I do if I get a vet bill I can’t afford Few things are more worrying than facing an emergency vet bill in the UK when your pet suddenly becomes unwell or injured. Pets are part of the family, and naturally, you want to do everything possible to keep them healthy. But veterinary…
What should I do if I can’t afford to fix my boiler? A broken boiler can quickly become more than just an inconvenience. For many households, if your boiler is broken, it’s an emergency. Without heating or hot water, daily life feels harder, especially in colder months. When it happens unexpectedly, the cost of repair…
Why am I ashamed I had to ask my parents for money? It’s not easy to say the words out loud: ‘I had to ask my parents for money’. Even thinking about it can bring up a wave of shame, guilt or embarrassment, especially if you’ve always tried to be independent or are used to…
Am I in debt? Debt can creep up on you. What starts as the odd missed payment or reliance on credit cards to get through the month can quickly turn into something harder to manage. If you’ve found yourself asking ‘how do I know if I’m in debt?’ – you’re not alone. The reality is,…