Debt help for single parents Managing debt can feel different when you’re raising children on one income. You may be covering rent, bills, food, childcare and school costs with no one else to share the day-to-day pressure. That doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong. Debt can build when your income has to stretch across a…
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,…
What happens when debt isn’t paid off? Debt doesn’t usually spiral overnight. It often starts with a missed payment, a letter left unopened, or a period where money is simply stretched too thin. Many people who fall behind on payments didn’t expect to be in debt in the first place. If you’re unsure how your situation started, our guide on the common…
10 common reasons why people get into debt in the UK People get into debt in the UK for many reasons – often due to changes in income, rising living costs, health issues, or unexpected life events. Understanding the most common reasons people get into debt can help you recognise your own situation and take…
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…