Cost of Living Crisis

Di956

I’ve subscribed to your weekly newsletter for many years now. I’ve been struggling financially ever since the financial crash in 2008, when I lost all my work and had just taken on a very high mortgage with Northern Rock!

 Unfortunately, having been poor for so long, I’ve already cut back to the bare essentials for most of the last 13.5 years, but I sometimes find the odd nugget that really helps.

 In October, I will finally finish paying off my horrifically expensive mortgage (I’m one of the mortgage prisoners being represented by Harcus Parker) and will also finish paying off my debts through StepChange. It’s been a terrible time and being in debt is rather like being ill, but it was worth it to be able to provide a stable home for my son while he was growing up.

 You give such great advice that there’s not much more I can add, but here are a couple of ideas which we have found valuable over the years.

 We keep a couple of cosy throws on the sofa to wrap up in as we watch TV at night, as the heating goes off well before bedtime.

 I don’t use washing powder 99% of the time – I use eco balls which go on for ever and ever. I dilute my fabric conditioner 50/50 with water and I never use a tumble dryer except for emergencies. I hang my clothes on hangers as soon as they come out of the washing machine. I hang them on the door frames upstairs and they don’t need ironing and the place smells of fresh washing.

 I only shop at Aldi and if things are really tight, I just buy their supersavers. I only shop infrequently and only use a basket to avoid buying anything on impulse. I never buy ready meals.

 I cut tubes in half to make sure I use every last bit of product.

 Life doesn’t have to be all bad when you’re really short of money. I try to find things to do for free and allow myself the occasional treat. I suppose the things I miss most are concerts, plays etc. and I still work very long hours at the age of 65, but it will be lovely when November comes and it’s all paid off!

 Keep up the amazing work.

Amber1980

well done to to you,you’re very nearly there after a lot of tough years!!!
Great tips aswell,wishing you all the best xx

joedenise

Well done.  You're nearly there.  Are you planning to stop working once everything is paid off.

Just one thing I'd say about your money saving - why use fabric conditioner at all?  I don't use it and my washing is still OK.  Some people use a bit of white vinegar instead of conditioner which is far cheaper!