Money well spent?
N THESE uncertain and difficult times, it can be tempting to take actions which may bring us a bit of instant comfort but could harm others.
Empty supermarket shelves due to panic buying have left many people struggling to find the things they need in recent weeks, with stores now imposing limits on how much people can buy at once, when it comes to certain items.
The UK Government has announced a wide-ranging package of measures to support people and businesses through the coronavirus crisis. But it’s also worth thinking about how we can all do our bit, if our finances are able to stretch to it – spending responsibly and thinking of ways to help make a difference in the long run.
Even if you have no cash to spare, there may be other actions you can take to help support businesses and others in your community.
Here are some suggestions from Adam Bullock, UK director of website TopCashback.co.uk:
COULD YOU USE THOSE TICKETS IN THE FUTURE?
IF AN event or trip has been put off, consider whether you would be happy to delay it and go another time, rather than cancelling altogether and asking for a refund.
It’s upsetting to miss out in the short term, but you could be massively helping industries that are suffering now, in the long run.
BE MINDFUL WITH ONLINE SHOPPING
WHILE staying at home, you may end up spending more time than usual browsing online for the items you need to stock up on. But don’t panic buy.
If you do use cashback websites, such as TopCashback, you could also think about donating any extra spending money saved from your shop to a good cause, rather than keeping it for yourself.
CARRY ON SUPPORTING CHARITIES IF YOU CAN
HONOUR commitments you’ve already made to charitable causes. Many events have been cancelled, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should cash in a refund that you’ve already pledged. The charity sector still needs all the help it can get.
DON’T FORGET TO TIP
PAY it forward by tipping more than usual. If you’re ordering food deliveries online, or safely
Spending responsibly – whether it’s our time or our cash – could really help support struggling businesses and charities suffering during the coronavirus pandemic. tells you how
purchasing in person, up the tip percentage by an amount you can afford. Every little helps after all.
SHOP LOCAL
THINK small rather than just visiting the big supermarkets. Check your local food shop/butcher/ grocer for supplies. It’s good to be doing this anyway, but even more so
now to help keep them afloat.
CHIP IN AS A VOLUNTEER
DONATE some of your down time and volunteer from home. Use the time you may save commuting, or just to mix up your evening routine. Perhaps this could mean giving someone who is feeling lonely or particularly low at this time a friendly phone call.
See how you can get involved and help from afar.
CAN YOU HELP YOUR NEIGHBOURS?
IF YOU’RE buying groceries, think about your neighbours – perhaps they don’t order online, or can’t get out at all.
Those who are elderly may be finding it particularly difficult to get hold of the shopping they need.
Many local communities are organising help for vulnerable people in their area, so go on social media and see if you can join in.
SUPPORT LOCAL FOOD BANKS
FOOD banks have unfortunately been feeling the negative aftermath of panic buying, so donate a few bits that you can live without.
Think dried foods, tins and also remember people don’t just lean on food banks for meals.
Food banks also need toiletries – deodorant, toilet paper, shower gel, shaving gel, shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, tooth paste and if you can spare... toilet rolls!
USE SOCIAL MEDIA FOR GOOD
HELP spread any useful tips and messages of positivity you come across on social media.
The situation may seem bleak, but all the more reason to support each other and the businesses and brands you love.
Virtual support may not be as good as physical cash, but it’s better than doing nothing. Perhaps give some of your favourite businesses a boost by leaving them positive online reviews.
SHOW SUPPORT IN DIFFERENT WAYS
LOOK for other ways you could support your community, shops or people, even if you can’t be there in person. For example, if a concert or gig has been called off, think about buying some merchandise instead.
DON’T PANIC BUY
IT’S difficult, but try to keep a level head. Make and stick to a sensible budget, don’t panic buy and help others where possible.
Panic buying should largely be reduced now due to rationing by many supermarkets with regards to essentials: milk, toilet rolls, pasta etc.
GROW YOUR OWN
IF YOU’VE got access to some outdoor space while at home it may be a good time to try getting back to nature and growing your own fruit and vegetables.
The Royal Horticultural Society says it’s seen a spike in visits to its online advice pages on how to grow vegetables, fruit and edible plants.