Make sure you’re getting the best deals on your phone, broadband and TV. Check if your current provider has any offers for existing customers and then compare prices to what else is out there. MoneySavingExpert.com has plenty of information onsearching for the best deals.
The best advice is to shop around as some supermarkets and retailers will sell certain items at cheaper prices. It’s also best to avoid convenience stores when you are buying more than a few items, as they generally charge higher prices compared to supermarkets. Most supermarkets have ranges of own-label products, from basic and value brands to premium – and often there isn't much difference, particularly for staple products. Loyalty schemes are also big business for supermarkets. Many have changed in recent years, so they're no longer simply about collecting points but instead now offer exclusive discounts, rewards, charity donations and competitions to loyal shoppers. Other practical advice is to go in knowing how long you want to spend in store and what you’d like to buy: write a list in advance and stick to it.
Mobile Phones/ Broadband/ Satellite TV packages
Make sure you’re getting the best deals on your phone, broadband and TV. Check if your current provider has any offers for existing customers and then compare prices to what else is out there. MoneySavingExpert.com has plenty of information onsearching for the best deals.
The best advice is to shop around as some supermarkets and retailers will sell certain items at cheaper prices. It’s also best to avoid convenience stores when you are buying more than a few items, as they generally charge higher prices compared to supermarkets. Most supermarkets have ranges of own-label products, from basic and value brands to premium – and often there isn't much difference, particularly for staple products. Loyalty schemes are also big business for supermarkets. Many have changed in recent years, so they're no longer simply about collecting points but instead now offer exclusive discounts, rewards, charity donations and competitions to loyal shoppers. Other practical advice is to go in knowing how long you want to spend in store and what you’d like to buy: write a list in advance and stick to it.
Cashback websites
Cashback websites such asTop CashbackorQuidcogive you cashback on your online and instore spending on many items or services, with cashback usually paid several weeks later. One of our customers and board members has previously written ablog poston getting the most out of cash back sites.
Got a spare bedroom and paying an underoccupancy charge?
If you are claiming Housing Benefit or the Universal Credit housing element but have a spare bedroom, you may have an underoccupancy charge, which means you have to pay 14% or 25% more rent. If you would like to speak to us about your options for downsizing to a smaller property, please contact 54North Homes and ask to speak to a member of our Housing Team.
Saving for family big days or unexpected costs
You may be finding it hard to pay for Christmas and birthdays and other one-off expenses. There are a number of savings schemes which could help you plan for these events and manage unexpected costs, whilst avoiding taking out high-interest loans. One option is the government backedHelp to Savescheme which you can only access if you receive Universal Credit or Working Tax Credit. You could also save withLeeds Credit Union’s Christmas Clubavailable to all 54North Homes customers including those outside Leeds. Savings can only be withdrawn from this account from 1st November - 24th December each year making it a perfect way to help with the cost of Christmas. There are many other schemes available, so definitely shop around.
If you live in Barnsley,Community First- through direct assistance from Barnsley Council - is now able to offerinterest free loans, ranging from £100 to £500. These are available to existing and new credit union account holders living in the Barnsley borough. To apply please visit Community First’s branches in Market Street in the Barnsley Town Centre, Wombwell or Goldthorpe. You can also visit the websitehereor phone03030 300010.
If you live in Leeds, you can access free, confidential and impartial help/advice on a range of money related matters such as debt, money, energy and utilities through the Leeds City CouncilMoney Information Centre. One to one tailored support is available via digital, telephone and face to face appointments.
