Really struggling with money st the minute

I might be missing something, but having £400 left over after bills sounds like a dream!!

Is the 400/500 to cover food, travel etc? If so I can see why you might be struggling. Last year I made a separate savings account and put a little bit of money in it each month to cover the cost of gifts and Christmas for the whole year and it’s really made such a difference. Rather than forking out hundreds in one go. Re the benefits, have you went on a benefit calculator online to see if you’re eligible for anything?

@Laura yes the £400/500 is for little bits like going to the shops etc and doing things outings, travel,petrol etc. this is a good idea thank you. I will give the benefit calculator a go thank you x

@Rachel that’s what I thought 😅

I have envelopes (in my secret hiding place 😂) I put money aside each month, so I do £20 Christmas £30 for our holiday for next year £10 for date night £10 family day out I know it doesn’t seem like a lot each month but it builds up and so far is working out well 🙂

I would just say remember that Christmas and birthday presents aren’t essentials, and if you’re struggling to afford them this year then any close family and friends should understand that. If it’s for children you’re worried about, try picking things up in charity shops or at car boot sales as you can sometimes get almost brand new toys for a few £ there. You can earn a bit of extra money by doing online surveys so this may be worth looking into? Also there are websites where you can be a mystery shopper or diner so you get paid a small amount for writing a report on something. Do you have any bits you can sell on vinted? Just a few ideas to make a bit of extra cash :)