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Frugal but Fabulous at Christmas

So you hear the collective groan that barely have we said goodbye to the summer when Christmas comes on the agenda, but it is never too early to start planning.

We have already crossed the 100 days threshold and as the days get shorter so do the number of pay cheques between now and Christmas. All the good intentions to put a little aside gone out the window and the festivities loom on the horizon.

A typical family spends around £600 on Christmas, way too much for December’s pay cheque – so try to avoid ruining the New Year with a debt hangover and start saving and planning.

Putting away as little as £1 a day can make a massive difference as the big day approaches – our website www.derbyshireconsumerhub.info has loads of tips collected from our staff and volunteers about how to save a £1 everyday.

Christmas is an expensive time but you can do things to help. For instance, got it but don’t need it? So flog it! It can be amazing how much money can be made by selling your unwanted goods.

Start now by creating your Christmas cupboard and filling it, especially when there are deals or promotions. If you need to borrow money make sure it is at the best rate, preferably 0% - always shop around.

You could try setting a limit on the amount you spend on presents - set yourself the challenge to see what you can find with a fiver, or why not ban presents? Make a pact that you won’t give unnecessary presents, or make your own.

Challenge yourself to save a £1 a day and see what a difference this can make to your celebrations.

Emma Hagger at Derbyshire Dales, Amber Valley & Erewash Citizens Advice Bureau said “Times are tough for many families at the moment, given the rising costs of day to day living expenses; debt from Christmas adds further pressure to already stretched finances. The temptation is to use credit cards, overdrafts and loans to keep your head above water – but often this can lead to further money worries. Anyone struggling to cope should seek help soon rather than later.”

There is plenty of information available on ways to save you can get top tips from our website http://www.derbyshireconsumerhub.info/money.shtml

If you need advice around money issues please call our helpline on 0844 375 2712, open Mon to Fri 10am to 3pm – if the line is busy leave your name and number and we will call you back.

#Christmas Saving