While the payday loan lender has a representative APR of 1000%+, the credit union’s maximum APR is 42.6% – and usually no charge if you pay off the loan early.
Credit unions aim to help you take control of your money by encouraging you to save what you can, and borrow only what you can afford to repay.
Be yourself – whoever you are, however you feel, whatever life has thrown at you. If things are tough, talk about it. Samaritans can be reached on 08457 90 90 90 or jo@samaritans.org .
Credit unions can be an alternative to payday loans or doorstep lending and can help those who can’t get access to ordinary bank products.
Credit unions are local community not-for-profit financial organisations in which you can save your money or get a loan. They can also teach you how to manage your finances.
The Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) gives information on the grants, benefits and payment schemes that you may be entitled to as well as basic steps that you can take to save money on heating bills by making your home more energy efficient.
Ready meals are often high in salt, sugar or fat. Making your own meals is healthier and works out much cheaper. Visit the NHS Choices Healthy Recipes page for healthy recipes.
At the supermarket, shelves at eye level usually contain the more expensive items. Try swapping branded products for the supermarket’s own brand.
If you have less money to spend on food, plan your meals a few days ahead, make a list before you go shopping and stick to it so you don’t buy too much.
Work as a family to stop smoking as it affects all of you – not just health but behaviours, attitudes and finances.