We can all manage our money better, it's just knowing how.
This blog aims to provide a common sense approach to the community to manage their personal finances better.
It should not be treated as financial advice and it is not related to the regulated financial products offered
by Fund Ourselves
From musicals to Shakespearean plays, there's no better way to brighten up an evening than with a trip to the theatre. We've looked at ways to enjoy a little comedy or culture without breaking the bank.
Discount ticket outlets
If you're flexible about the seating – or a particular show you wish to see – it's worth leaving the ticket purchases to the last minute. Many ticket sellers will be offering half-price or discounted tickets to the top shows on the day itself, or up to seven days beforehand. Online dealers such as Last Minute and Today Tix have discounts on theatre tickets for theatre goers to enjoy.
When it comes to matters of the heart, sometimes we need to balance our romantic dreams with financial realities. We'll help you keep the romance alive without breaking the bank.
Dine al-fresco
While childhood picnics conjure up images of jam sandwiches, orange juice and crumb-filled Tupperware, grown-up picnics for two can be romantic occasions. As the location is likely to be free – woodlands or a local beauty spot – you may be able to afford to splash out on your favourite foods. Pâté, a posh cheese selection and a cheeky glass of bubbly won't set you back a fortune, but will send the message that you're keen to treat your other half.
It is virtually impossible to see winter through without catching a cold here in the UK, but there are tons of effective treatments to stop the sniffles in their tracks and save money in the process. Read on for great cold-busting cures…
Adapt your diet
Eating and drinking healthily is essential for fighting off a cold. The NHS says it's best to eat a low-fat, high-fibre diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables - think fruit smoothies and wholesome meals. They also point to evidence that links zinc supplements to a faster recovery, so try eating more zinc-rich food like meat, shellfish, cheese or bread. Your parents were right about good old chicken soup! Hot honey and lemon is also a lovely, soothing drink for a sore throat.
With the price of the grocery shopping hitting record highs, it can be hard to see where savings can be made. But with a little planning, research and inventiveness, you can create cheap family meals without compromising on quality.
Buy for less
When trying to save, it's important to consider when and how you shop. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury's and Asda reduce the price of goods significantly when they're close to their sell-by date, often towards the end of the day. By finding out the time your local store tends to price down its produce and where they put the discounted food, you could make a big saving.
The seasons may be changing and the Great British outdoors beckons. It's a beautiful time of year to explore your local area, with plenty of free activities to keep both adults and children entertained. Here's our handy guide to getting out and about this season:
Walk and explore
Walking is a wonderful way to see your local scenery and get fit at the same time. While you could attend an outdoor gym, you could also download a walking guide app such as iFootpath which is a helpful aid on your phone, packed with great walks, reviews and a GPS. For urban walks, some cities such as Manchester, Oxford and London offer free two-hour walking tours – just google your city for times and meeting points.
Go for a home-based birthday party to keep venue costs down. Invite a small group of your child's besties and choose a fun theme like a pirate tea party, Lego building workshop or a sleepover (weekend only!)
Experiencing live music doesn't have to cost the earth. Find the best ways to save money when booking tickets to your next gig with our discount tips and tricks.
Stay ahead of the curve
To be in with a shout of good value gig tickets, you need to know well in advance when your favourite bands are playing. Join their mailing lists for reliable info and special offers. Liking their Facebook page and following them on Twitter and Instagramwill also help if you want to find out first when they're heading out on the road. You can also sign up to mailing lists for specific venues and ticket selling sites which will keep you up to date.
Imagine ending this year with an extra £667.95 to spend on anything you like – whether it's a dream holiday abroad, new TV or simply as a cash buffer to deal with any much-needed house or car repairs! Sound impossible?
The 365 1p Money Saving Challenge can help you be quids in by saving pennies every day. #moneygoals achieved.
Exercise is for the whole year, not just to get trim for the beach - and getting fit for free isn't as big of a workout as it may seem. Make 2019 your ultimate year to get fit, feel great and save while you're doing it!
Considering the average family spends around £3,000 a year on a new baby, it's not surprising that expecting parents panic! Don't worry – if you're a savvy spender, you can get everything you need for under £300. Here's how:
What you don't need
Don't waste money on things that aren't essential. Babies don't need a bouncer, designer clothing, wet wipe warmers or a musical toy, which plays Mozart's Serenade in G major.
This blog aims to provide a common sense approach to the community to manage their personal finances better.
It should not be treated as financial advice and it is not related to the regulated financial products offered
by Fund Ourselves
