Top tips to reduce living costs

Over recent months, the cost of living has skyrocketed across the globe with the UK being one of the most affected countries. The causes for the increase are multifaceted, from supply chain disruptions caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to the continued economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The average British household is facing another “heat or eat” period with energy bills soaring and Reuters reporting that fresh food has increased 15% over the last 12 months from December 2022. If you’re one of the households struggling right now, you might want to know about these top tips to reduce living costs.

#1: Switch out the hot water bottle

It’s quite sad that working families cannot afford to heat their homes, but it’s the reality for many due to the increase in energy costs. To save money, you can instead focus on heating the human instead of heating your home.

Along with extra layers, you could consider warming up further with a hot water bottle. But as the hot water bottle will require you to use the kettle, you can typically save money by using reusable hand or foot warmers instead; the breakdown of usage costs is explained here.

#2: Save on broadband with a Social Tariff

Social tariffs are offered to people on low incomes to help them save money on their internet costs. Some people out of work can even get broadband absolutely free for six months. These tariffs aren’t widely advertised and they don’t usually appear on comparison websites, so unless you’re told about them, you don’t really get the chance to save.

#3: Household Support Fund – new funding!

Local authorities have been handed £500 million to help anyone who is currently struggling and has to choose between heating their home or eating. The fund is called the Household Support Fund and you do not need to be on benefits to be eligible to receive support. Contact your local council about the Household Support Fund to see if you can be supported

#4: School Meals and the Pupil Premium

Most people are aware that low-income households can get their children free meals at school. But much fewer families know about the Pupil Premium. This is another support package to help children with schooling expenses when they come from low-income households.

Specifically, it can help cover costs associated with school trips, meals, snacks and even help the school win funding to help with study aids and resources. You can usually apply for the Pupil Premium through your local council.

#5: Healthy Start and Best Start

Healthy Start - which is known as Best Start in Scotland - is a support package aimed at pregnant women (at least 10 weeks) or parents with children under the age of four, usually with a low income and on benefits. It entitles them to milk and fresh foods for free. You need to apply for this benefit via the NHS.

January 2023