By Ayesha Akaloo, Resident Journalist

Season’s greetings!

Hi All, it’s been a while since my last article but it’s good to be back! With Christmas coming up I’ve been thinking a lot about practical ways to save money and reduce costs. It’s not always easy to cut back even more when you’re already on a tight budget!

Cook fresh food

Try to cook meals from scratch where possible. If I see something I like I check the ingredients and make it myself at home. It often works out cheaper and healthier too! Plus, cook larger meals and save or freeze the rest for another day.

Eat smart

Did you know supermarkets reduce their prices on food close to their sell by date, after 4pm? Always check the clearance shelves for a bargain, it can also be a great way to try something new that is usually more expensive.

Plan your weekly meals and always write a shopping list. Never go food shopping on an empty stomach, if you do take a bottle of water.

Don’t waste energy

Small things like draughts and leaking taps/showers will increase your bills.

Contact the Axis repairs team if you need advice and assistance.
Using a clothes airer outside in the garden or
balcony means less tumble dryer usage. It’s not advisable to dry clothes on the heaters indoors, as this increases condensation in your home and can cause damp.

Make a snake

Use draught excluders for extra insulation – you can even get the kids to make one! Just get a pair of old tights and stuff with crunched up strips of newspaper. Paint it over once it’s filled and decorate anyway you like. I made a snake when I was at school!

Watch the pennies…

Always open the post and keep track of your bills and debts. If you’re struggling, draw up a financial statement. There are a few templates available online where you can list all of your income, bills, debts and other outgoings. Then send one to each of your creditors (those you owe money to). Offer to pay a realistic minimum payment and stick to the arrangements. They can sometimes offer an interest-free period for repayments to help reduce the outstanding balance.

Schemes to help

There are certain schemes available for people on a low income or benefits such as Fuel Direct for fuel and water bills and Energy Assist offered by EDF. Also, for pre-paid customers, EBICO are a non-profit energy company who offer good pricing and have no standing charges.

If you need help covering the costs over Christmas, a Social Fund Loan is available to those on certain benefits or low incomes. The repayments are interest-free.

Need to chat about money?

Help is available from a number of organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau, National Debt Line, the Consumer Credit Counselling service (CCCS) and the Money Advice Unit.

Plus, don’t forget to talk to Swan, if you are finding it hard to pay your rent, they can offer help and advice too.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and more prosperous New Year!