Local charities can help cover childcare costs
If you are struggling to pay your childcare costs, local charities will sometimes provide support.
Organisations, such as the YMCA or local church groups, sometimes run after-school clubs for free.
Make sure to first check with the charity for any eligibility requirements that may prevent you from getting support.
Tips for cutting broadband, TV and mobile costs
The simplest way to save more of your hard-earned cash is by switching suppliers when your contract expires.
If you’re outside the minimum term of your contract, then you won’t need to pay a cancellation fee – and you might be able to find a cheaper deal elsewhere.
You might be charged an exit fee if you’re still in your contract period.
But don’t just switch contracts because the price is lower than you currently pay.
Look at how much speed you need for broadband, how many minutes and texts you need, and how much data you’re using on your mobile to find out which deal is best for you.
Use comparison websites like MoneySupermarket and Uswitch to compare the best tariffs and phone prices.
How much will you save from this week’s energy price cap reduction?
Ofgem’s energy price cap fell by £238 this week.
This means the ‘typical’ household will go from paying £1,928 a year to £1,690.
Over 29million households have been affected by this change.
The small tweak that could cut your car insurance by hundreds each year
The price of car insurance rose once again in 2023, forcing Brits to pay more than ever to own a vehicle.
Car retailer Motor Match has lifted the lid on how motorists can pocket hundreds of pounds on their car insurance – and it involves where you park.
“Where you park your car can significantly impact your insurance premium,” experts explained.
“Parking on a driveway is often perceived by insurers as safer than street parking, which is more susceptible to theft and accidental damage.”
Find out more below…
A guide to UK streaming services
In the age of streaming, it seems a new service emerges almost every day asking for your cash to watch the latest blockbuster film or must-see show.
But how much does each service set you back per month and what are the benefits to each one?
- Amazon Prime Video – £8.99 per month or £95 for a year’s subscription
- Pro – Can be purchased alongside Amazon Prime
- Con – Not all content on Amazon is available with the service
- Apple TV – £8.99 a month
- Pro – High-profile exclusive shows and a great offering for young kids
- Con – Limited library when compared to its rivals
- Disney+ – Starts at £4.99 per month with ads
- Pro – Access to all Marvel, Fox and Star Wars content.
- Con – No free trial
- Netflix – Starts at £4.99 with ads
- Pros – Ever-growing library of original shows such as Stranger Things and Wednesday
- Con – Often cancels its own shows before they end
TSB’s advice for boosting your finances
TSB Bank has shared some advice for boosting your finances as the cost of living continues to rise.
- Contact your bank: Speaking to your bank does not affect your credit rating and can be the first step to finding a better solution and getting financial help.
- Check for unclaimed grants: Lightning Reach and other benefit calculators can make sure you’re not missing out on money you’re entitled to.
- Set your budget: Rising bills and prices mean it’s important to know how much money is coming in and going out, so you don’t overspend.
- Look for where you can make savings: Use your banking app to cancel outgoings like Direct Debits and subscriptions you no longer need.
