Short messages on Finance and money issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Have realistic expectations of wages when you are applying for jobs. Don’t expect big money when you first start – companies pay more for experience and good skillsets.
A third of all the heat lost in an uninsulated home goes through the walls. If your house is older than the 1990’s it may not have any wall insulation at all.
Loft insulation: up to a quarter of your home’s heat escapes through the roof; you can solve this by laying mineral wool under the rafters.
The Energy Saving Trust says boilers account for about 55% of what people spend each year on energy bills, so an efficient boiler makes a big difference. Depending on your boiler’s age, a new efficient one could save you up to £300 per year.
Instead of buying Christmas cards, consider donating the same money to charity and tell your friends what you’ve done. This could have a real impact on people who truly need it.
You may be eligible for free insulation/cavity wall/boiler if you meet certain criteria. Speak to your energy provider or the Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234.
Insulating your home is one of the most effective ways to cut your energy bills – you could save up to £180 a year by insulating your loft and £140 with cavity wall insulation.
DemoHoHotivator.com shows how small sacrifices now can boost Christmas cash. It shows you the real impact of your daily spending habits.
For small children you can make Christmas presents, such as sock puppets, fairy dust, a box of balloons or a framed photo of you making a snowman together.
If you are buying Christmas presents for people you can agree to limit gift costs to £5 and some thought.