‘Little changes will make a huge difference’

Financial blogger Claire Roach, 39, lives near Cardiff, with her partner, Luke, 37, a bricklayer, and their children, Ashleigh, 20, Joe, 15, Rosie, 12, and four-yearold twins Esme and Lola.

She says, “As a mum of five, I have to budget. My motto is a penny saved is a penny earned. I’ve always had an emergency fund and believe that everyone should put a little bit away each month – even if it’s only £10 – so they have a little pot of money for absolute emergencies. You can do it in a penny jar – saving loose change and the odd note – or by direct debit the day your salary is paid.

“Food is the biggest expense for most families. Never waste anything, make a weekly meal plan and stick to it rigidly, including snacks. My meal plans include things like keeping vegetable peelings, freezing them and then making soup – it’s nourishing and filling. And we always take a picnic on family outings and our own icecreams in freezer bags rather than pay over the odds.

“I never buy anything at full price either – I always shop around and look for discount vouchers. A good tip if you’re shopping online is to put things you want in your basket, then abandon it. The company will often come back to you with a discount voucher on those goods. I also never buy anything in season, so I bought my garden furniture in the winter at a huge saving. And I use cashback websites, such as quidco.com or topcashback. co.uk when I shop so you get money back.

“If you’re looking to upgrade your phone or add extra channels onto your TV subscription, tell your service provider you’ve found a cheaper deal elsewhere and want to leave. They will often match the deal.

“Always look for the cheapest options too, and not just with food. Instead of buying branded medicine, try looking at the shop’s own brand instead. It’s often up to half the price and does exactly the same. It might seem like just a few pence – but it will all add up.

“And most importantly, write down every penny you spend and exactly what your incomings are. That way you hold yourself accountable. Things may seem really bleak – but making little changes will make a huge difference.”

● For more tips and information, go to Claire’s website Moneysavingcentral.co.uk