Stop Lending To My Mate?

Chelsea, 22, Luton

Afriend borrows money and sometimes she pays it back but not always. It’s just small amounts like £10 or so, but it adds up.

It’s not that I can’t afford to lend her the cash but it annoys me that she does it so often and doesn’t repay her debts.

She borrows from other friends, too. I want to say no, but she tells me the cash is for nappies or to put money on the electric and I don’t want her kids suffering.

Should I stop lending to her?

yes

Pick Me Up! reader Mandy Cooper says, ‘Sounds like this so-called friend is using you. She’s taking the mickey and knows you’ll give in, so you must be strong and tell her no.

If you then lose her as friend, you’ll know she wasn’t really your friend to begin with.

I know it’s hard when kids are involved, but stand your ground. You’re already feeling resentful, so don’t let her make you feel even worse.’

NO

Pick Me Up! reader Lisa Frederiksmose says, ‘If she tells you she needs money for nappies or electric, then offer to go out and buy them for her instead of lending her cash.

That way, if she really needs it for these things, then she’d still be grateful. Or get her to mark down on a pad of paper every time she borrows from you, or keep receipts.

If she’s your friend, she should be paying it back. I don’t think it’s fair to expect you and others to keep her.’