From discounts to savvy shopping tips, here we have outlined some simple ways that can help you cut costs and combat the cost of living increase in the UK.
The cost of living refers to the amount of money needed to cover all the basic essentials, such as food, housing, and taxes, in a specific place and time. As we all know, the cost of living has been increasing significantly in recent years, which has left people struggling to meet the rising cost of our bills. Sound familiar?
From your weekly food shop to the cost of living payment, it can be challenging to know how to save money, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. But it is important to remember that there is support out there.
First and foremost, as a Health Service Discounts member, you can save when shopping at thousands of brands. It’s free to join and become a member, and as a member, you gain access to deals and discounts at the biggest brands across various categories, including travel, fashion, home & garden, and even your monthly bills.
Finally, you can sign up for the NHS cashback card, the ode cashback card, and earn cashback when shopping with the Ode card online and in-store and popular brands.
Cost of living Payment 2023
We have all heard about the Cost of Living Crisis at this point, and it’s affecting everyone differently. Thankfully, there are ways to get help with the cost of living crisis.
Eligibility for up to three Cost of Living Payments, each valued at £301, £300, and £299, is determined based on receiving the following benefits or tax credits on specified dates:
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
If you want to check if you are eligible for the cost of living payment 2023, or to learn when the next cost of living payment is taking place, please visit gov.uk
Track Your Spending
Before you can start to look at where in your spending you can make savings and cuts, you need to have a clear idea of exactly what you’re spending. Therefore, we recommend that you track every expenditure you need to make each month. This will help you work out how much money you have left over and may help you to budget your money more effectively.
Be Your Own Mechanic
Throughout the year, your car will go through a lot, so it’s crucial to learn how to maintain it. For example, a couple of basic skills, such as simple ways to defrost your windshield, learning how to jump-start a car, and topping up your screen wash reservoir with a screen wash that is effective under -15°c are easy steps you can learn and will make a big difference. Let’s face it; we could all do without a big bill from the mechanics this winter!
Tackle Your Water Usage
Did you know that your water usage is closely linked to your energy usage? Take a look at these easy tips to help save:
- Shorter showers instead of baths.
- Switching your showerhead to a more effective model can make a difference.
- Use cold water or cooler water when possible.
- Ensure the washing machine and the dishwasher are full before usage.
- Make sure you turn off the tap when brushing your teeth.
Chop Your Food Shop
As part of the increasing cost of living, you’ll likely have noticed that food prices have risen considerably. And as food shopping is one of the biggest costs you have to budget for each month, it is important that you try and make savings where possible.
The best way to do this is by preparing and cooking your own meals, no matter how tempting it can be to go out for food or order a takeaway after a long day at work. Not only are home-cooked meals cheaper than ready meals, but they’re healthier too!
By drawing up a weekly food plan and shopping list before you go to the supermarket, you can only buy the ingredients you need for the meals you plan to make that week. This is also a great way to use what you have in the cupboards before buying more.
