We can’t bury our head in the sands much longer when it comes to the cost of Living Crisis. Petrol prices are going through the roof and the weekly grocery cost seems to increase all the time. I don’t drive yet so rely on my feet rather than a car but food shopping has to be done. I know it can be so disheartening for people who are working hard merely to survive rather than to live a full life. As a former money advisor and debt counsellor, I am sharing some tips on how to save money during the cost of living crisis. How to save money during the cost of living crisis Saving money can mean getting stuff cheaper or for free. I would like you to do that but also look at ways to build up a contingency fund or nest egg so that you aren’t overwhelmed when an unexpected bill or life change happens. COVID-19 showed us how things can change at speed causing disruptions like lockdowns to our lives. We don’t always see things coming and their is real learning in that.  Most of my former debt clients only got into trouble when a change happened such as a job loss or ill health. Think positive whatever your circumstances and calculate a savings goal for yourself and your family. My financial situation 2020 was challenging for our myself and my children. My husband decided he did not wish to live with us. He spent years away from our teenage children and refused to pay anything like reasonable maintenance payments favouring alcohol and cigarettes over his children’s welfare. Despite the distress, someone needed to look after the children we had together. I was lucky enough to have family support and an inheritance from an unexpected source helped hugely despite the very sad circumstances. I got a job and then did some freelance work to make ends meet. It’s amazing how you can develop a side hustle if you have a laptop or mobile phone. We kept on keeping on as you have to do when the wolf is at the door. The best things in life are free Before we got back on our feet, we learned that the best things in life are free. We went on lots of walks, visited nature reserves and played board games. We all have a good sense of humour so we laughed a lot even if we felt like crying. We would access comedy acts and funny films to make sure our funny bones were given a good workout. We continue doing these things even though we are now well on our way to so many exciting future plans. Knowing you can smile in the hardest of financial times is a good life lesson for my children. The memories we are making as a family of four are wonderful and will sustain my children in future years. Saving money in 2022 If you want to save money this year, check out any welfare benefits or grants you may be entitled to as so many go unclaimed. Find out where you can access free food via apps or local organisations. Before buying products or services, shop around and use comparison sites. Research gadgets and tips that can help reduce your water and energy costs. Find out how to drive in a way that makes the most of the petrol you put in your vehicle. These changes and ones you can research online can make it possible not only to make ends meet but to put savings away for a rainy day. How do save money in the cost of living crisis?        

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