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21 March 2017
You’re likely to have noticed that you might be spending more than usual on the basics. You’re right!
With the changes brought about by Brexit, there are bound to be some shifts in the costs of imports, fuel and more until things settle down (we hope!) With big changes going on way above most of our heads, it can all feel a bit overwhelming. We may well ask, ‘Is there anything we can really do?’
Someone once said to me, ‘Do what you can do – not what you can’t,’ and I can recommend this as a strategy when panic hits.
Yes, there are things we’d like to change – and maybe you’re up for going into politics to make that happen or you’re a big campaigner. All power to your elbow, if that’s the case! But, even if you make a big noise, you’ll still have to trust those in positions of authority to crack on and make the big decisions.
Some of it does land at our door, though, so which bits can we change?
Car travel costs
Petrol and diesel prices have soared up again since 2016, with a medium-sized petrol car now costing an average of £65.48 to fill.
What are your options?
Food costs
Rising food prices are one of the things that have pushed up inflation at the start of 2017. Staples like butter, tea, lamb and fish have all risen by more than 5% in the previous twelve weeks.
What can we do?
Energy price rises
Five of the 'big six' energy companies have confirmed price rises. EDF Energy, Npower, Scottish Power and E.ON are all going up and now SSE are increasing electricity prices by a massive 14.9% from 28 April (gas will stay the same).
What can you do?
Council tax
By now you should have received your council tax bill and it’s very likely to have gone up. Most councils have put up the cost by around 5%, costing the average Band D household another £50 a year and this is largely to pay for social care.
What are your options?
So, pour yourself a cuppa (because that is the answer to everything, right?) and start making the moves you can make.
Remember, if you’re in hot water with unpaid bills and out-of-control debts, you’ll need more than this. Don’t be alone with your worries. Call our helpline on 0800 328 0006 and chat to us about what’s happening.