It’s that time of year again, to celebrate with your loved ones and be merry! But it can quickly feel overwhelming with the cost of bills, Christmas shopping, and overall expenses going up with the kids being off school. To help out, we’ve pulled together some useful budgeting tips that can help you get ready for the festive period.
Focus on your ‘priority’ debts
It’s really important that you pay your ‘priority debts’, which include rent, council tax and other utility bills, before spending money on gifts and decorations.
If you’re struggling to pay your priority bills, please get in touch with us instead of leaving it too late. Our Money Advice Team are here to support you through any financial worries you might have. For help with the cost of living, take a look at our web page to see the different types of support you can receive from us, the government and other organisations.
You can read more on how the Money Advice team have helped other tenants, and how you can manage your money.
Be a savvy Christmas shopper
If you haven’t got the budget for new Christmas gifts, try shopping in charity shops. It’s a great way to give second-hand items a new home!
If you’re looking to buy something special, make sure you compare prices. Look at the price of products in different shops or on different websites before you buy to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Make the most of fun (and free) festive activities
There’s plenty of things to do with family and friends without needing to spend money over the festive period. Take a trip to see the Christmas markets and lights, go on a festive nature walk, cosy up a hot chocolate and a festive film, or paint your own baubles at home!
Check out all the fun festive activities happening across the Midlands
If you’re worried about your finances in the build up to Christmas, please call our Hub team on 0345 60 20 540 and ask for the Money Advice service. Once you’ve been transferred, one of our friendly advisors will have a chat with you.
