first time living alone

KxMx

I'm limited in when I can leave the house so I certainly have tips.

I'd recommend a large freezer, and free standing shelving if you haven't many cupboards.

That way you can stock pile food for the times you can't get out, and take advantage of special offers and bulk deals.

Not just food, things like loo roll and toiletries. A well stocked over the counter medicine drawer/shelf is also a must.

For gas/electric we have quartley bills but pay money onto a Post Office Budget card monthly. That way, when the bill comes the money usually covers it, and as there isn't easy access to the cash, it hasn't been spent.

KxMx

An emergency box for no power.
We have: candles, matches, batteries, torches, corded landline phone, battery radio.
Also a camping stove & kettle plus mini gas bottles.

moneyistooshorttomention

Personally - I don't really know why people generally don't have corded landline phones. I must have been a first adopter of cordless phones - and then found I could hear strangers' conversation on the line sometimes (ie presumably they could hear mine too). Add the health aspects and it was a no brainer to swop back.

Just have two corded landline phones and you should be able to hear them ringing okay wherever you are. My house is just a 2 bedroom bungalow - so I've got one in my study and one by the front door. Bingo - job done.

Poppy3008

I agree - corded phone . We had a power cut soon after moving in, mobile did not work as with Vodafone and need the sure signal this internet to work. My neighbour has a corded phone and so she was able to call the power company etc. Plus emergency stuff like torch, candles. Matches etc.
I live on my own in the week now as OH works away - and very rural.. yes, as others have said, well stocked freezer and loo paper. We have a water meter and it costs £10month though we probably don't even use that.
My sister bought me a very pink tool kit which actually is extermemely comprehensive - even my husband was impressed with it. So a basic selection of screwdrivers, hammer, Allan key is recommended. Nightlight - I say this as if, like me, you turn all lights off at night then it shows there is life in the flat/house. I did this after some drunk tried to break in through my windows. I was in and he ran off but I realised as there was no light he figured the place was empty. 10 years on and still have the same night light working! And cheap to have on. And yes, if you are buying - change the locks when you can. Defiantly budget for bills - I agree on seperate accounts. I have always had one for all direct debits and a current only for spending. Good luck and enjoy. X