Managing Your Family Finances Without Feeling Too Stretched

Raising a family isn’t cheap, and no matter what kind of setup you have (whether that’s two working parents, a single part time working parent or whatever job you have), chances are you’re working to some kind of budget. If you find yours is constantly stretched, there are usually a few things you can do to ease the pressure a bit and help your overall finances. 

Claim what you’re owed

Depending on your situation, you might be entitled to help from the government. This will depend on whether or not you have kids and how old they are, if you and your partner work and how much you earn and if you have savings (amongst other things). It’s easy to assume you’re not entitled to any help if you’re in work, but it’s really worth checking as you might be surprised. Being entitled to certain benefits can then give you money off things like prescriptions, dentists and even leisure activities so it’s worth looking into.

Getting the best deals on your bills

Do you make the most of new customer deals? If you don’t then you should, as it’s actually very easy and can save you a lot over the course of the year. Things like insurances, mobile phones and tv contracts will all give the best rates to new customers, so switching to a new company can save you. Getting your bills down can also mean things like switching to a water meter if you don’t already have one and reducing the amount of water you use. Not to mention reducing your electricity by getting into the habit of switching things off- smart home tech makes this really easy. Adding solar film to bifold doors and windows can help to stop your house from heating up too much in the summer too meaning you use less electricity trying to cool it down again. 

Cutting down your grocery spend

Chances are you spend too much on food and drink, most of us do. Meal planning, buying less expensive brands and batch cooking are three ways you can really get your bill down. One place many of us overspend without realising is buying food when we’re out and about. A Starbucks coffee here, a Subway sandwich there, it really does add up. If you’re going out for the day, pack a lunch, it doesn’t have to be anything boring. Fresh and tasty salads, pasta and sandwiches will all keep in your bag until lunchtime. Buy an insulated flask and bring your own coffee with you too, it will usually stay hot all day.

Sticking to a budget

Finally, without a budget you’ll always overspend because it’s so easily done. Draw up a budget and stick to it, that way all of your important outgoings are paid first and you’re never accidentally spending onto bill money. It really is the only way to keep your finances on track long term.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.