Cost of living crisis: Nine tips and ideas on how to save money as energy bills and living costs rise
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As households face increasing financial pressures, many of us are looking to do whatever possible to cut energy bills and living costs.
Ideas for money-saving tips around the home or everyday life range from exploring cheaper ways of cooking to watching the weather before putting on the washing machine.
They will not provide the answers, of course, for those who cannot afford their energy bills but they may offer some inspiration on cutting energy use and saving some money.
Here are some of our ideas but we are also keen to hear your money-saving tips:
TIP 1: One colleague keeps a flask next to the kettle so whenever it is boiled, excess water goes in the flask and can be used for the next cuppa or for washing up/cleaning as day goes on.
TIP 2: Another colleague, who lives in an off-gas area, discovered an "amazing" camping stove for cooking during a power cut last winter.
"If it's just a wee bacon or omelette sandwich you're needing or a pan of baked beans, or even just a pan of hot water, this amazing little burner will do it for absolute pennies," he says.
"The butane seems to last forever and costs under £3 a bottle."
TIP 3: Microwaves, slow cookers and air fryers tend to be cheaper ways of cooking meals than using an oven.
TIP 4: With the festive season coming up, why not browse the city's charity shops for an occasional outfit? There are many bargains to be found – one staff member snapped up a top label dress for just £14 for a family wedding.
TIP 5: When shopping, ask yourself three questions. Do I need this? Do I want this? Can I get something similar elsewhere at a cheaper price?
TIP 6: Cut down on unnecessary car journeys by walking or cycling if possible. Not only does it save on petrol costs, it is more environmentally friendly.
TIP 7: Take advantage of free bus travel. In Scotland, all young people aged between five and 21 years can apply for a card to access the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel Scheme, which began in January. People aged over 60 are also eligible for National Entitlement Card.
TIP 8: Be tactical when using the washing machine. Use a shorter and lower temperature setting when possible and watch the weather so you can hang the washing out to dry.
TIP 9: Set yourself a challenge to use up whatever ingredients are lurking in your cupboard or fridge to make as many meals as possible. You may end up with some unusual combinations – but you may create a culinary masterpiece and will be cutting down on food waste.
Email newsdesk@hnmedia.co.uk with your money-saving ideas.
