Newly single mum needs money saving tips

snow_queen

Hello

Ok Im trying to be positive about all this and get on with it! In an attampt to save money so far i have:

1. I run the dishwasher/washing machine when my little one wakes at around 3am as its much cheaper then!
2. being very consious of switching off lights etc and items im not using at the mains ie tv, video etc
3. keeping all and any coupons I can find to use at tesco
4. Tesco Value!!!!


Please any tips at all would be very welcome!!!

ashmit

I've just bumped 'food shopping for a family ish' for you - loads of useful tips on there.  I should bump the energy saving thread for you too - I think it's on Old Style so head on over there too.

About your first point:

1. I run the dishwasher/washing machine when my little one wakes at around 3am as its much cheaper then!

Are you actually on economy 7 for electricity?  If you're not, it's not cheaper at any time of the day.  (If you haven't got two separate meters you haven't got economy 7).  Fairly sure this is correct but if anyone knows better please correct me!

There is tons of stuff round this site, especially this board and Money Saving Old Style - have a read and I'm sure you'll think of loads of other things.  

Good luck - you can do it

16011996

snowqueen,

best of luck with being a single mum, its not easy, as i've learnt over the last few months, sadly my circumstances were different, but you get there in the end, i promise.

have a look at the threads ashmit suggested, they are really helpful, and basically, my advise is to work through things, aim to change maybe 1 or 2 things at a time, so it doesn't all get on top of you.

if i think of anything else, i'll come back and post,

but a big big hug to you,

love

160.

MATH

We have econ7 but only one meter which has two readings marked high & low. Good Luck

ashmit

Can't believe I forgot the pennypinching thread - will make sure that is bumped for you too.

hilstep2000

Being a single mum myself (through no fault of mine, I may add) are you claiming all you are entitled to? Have you claimed  the 25% off Council Tax, and maybe Council Tax Credit?  Housing Benefit may be available if you are renting, and if you are working make sure you are getting all the Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit you can.
Last year I found out our council were giving grants for repairs to property if you were on any benefits, and Tax Credits counted so I got a lot of repairs done that I couldn't afford myself.  I also claimed from the Government's "HomeWarm" Scheme, and had Cavity wall insulation and my loft insulation upgraded all for free.  
Don't worry about claiming it, if like me, you have worked since 16 you've paid in enough, time to claim it back!
The thread about feeding a family is worth a look too, really good ideas.
Hope you get on okay, keep coming back for more tips!