1. Review & Rebudget Your Finances

• Track Your Spending: Begin by tracking where every pound is going. Use budgeting apps or simple spreadsheets to categorise your spending.
  
  

• Create a New Budget: Based on your tracking, adjust your budget to reflect your current income and prioritise essential spending such as rent, utilities, groceries, and necessary debt payments.
  
  

2. Prioritise Essential Expenses

• Cut Non-Essentials: Reduce discretionary spending like eating out, subscriptions, and luxury items. Focus on needs rather than wants.
  
  

• Negotiate Bills: Contact service providers for utilities, internet, and phone to inquire about any available discounts or cheaper plans.
  
  

3. Manage Debt Efficiently

• Prioritise High-Interest Debt: Pay off or down high-interest debts such as credit card balances first, as they accumulate costs quickly.
  
  

• Contact Creditors: If you're struggling to make repayments, speak to your creditors about arranging more manageable repayment plans. Many are willing to work with you during financial hardships.
  
  

4. Increase Your Income

• Consider Additional Work: If possible, look for part-time jobs, freelance work, or gigs that can supplement your income.
  
  

• Sell Unneeded Items: Sell items you no longer need on platforms like eBay, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace or Vinted to raise extra cash.
  
  

5. Utilise Financial Assistance

• Government Assistance: Explore eligibility for government benefits such as
  Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction. Use online calculators to assess what support you could receive.
  
  

• Charity Grants: Some charities offer grants to help individuals through tough financial times. Organisations like Turn2us can help identify potential grants.
  
  

6. Save on Food and Essentials

• Plan Meals: Reduce food waste and save money by planning meals weekly and shopping with a list.
  
  

• Bulk Buying and Discounts: Buy staples in bulk during sales or use discount retailers. Consider joining local community groups on social media platforms where people share deals and free items.
  
  

7. Reduce Energy Costs

• Energy Efficiency: Implement energy-saving measures such as turning down heating, using energy-efficient bulbs, and unplugging devices when not in use.
  
  

• Switch Providers: Compare energy tariffs and consider switching providers if you find a cheaper option.
  
  

8. Seek Professional Money Advice

• Free Advice Services: Utilise free services such for professional financial guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
  
  

9. Stay Informed

• Stay Updated: Keep informed about changes in economic policy, energy caps, and any new government assistance programs through reputable news sources and official government websites, such as Gov.UK.
  
  

10. Maintain Mental & Emotional Wellbeing

• Support Networks: Leverage support from community groups, friends, and family. Sharing experiences and strategies can provide both emotional support and practical tips.
  
  

• Mental Health Resources: If financial stress is impacting your mental health, contact organisations like Mind or Samaritans for support.