With soaring energy bills and food inflation at an all time high, it’s no wonder households across the UK are still grappling to make ends meet.
From service users, to social workers, the public sector is no exception in feeling the repercussions of the cost of living crisis.
Social workers who drive to work are under particular pressure, with petrol averaging at around 191p per litre of petrol and 199p per litre of diesel.
The British Association of Social Workers commented that “the cost-of-living crisis is a crisis for social workers”.
Here at Imperium Solutions, we know first-hand how much time and effort our candidates put into improving the lives of those in care, and want to help make life a little bit easier during this difficult period. Carry on reading for our top tips on making the cost of living crisis more manageable.
Reduce energy use
Get those hot water bottles and electric blankets out to save forking out for extortionate energy bills. Layering up is always a good idea too. If your house is unbearably cold, try putting the heating on a timer so it comes on before you wake up and ready for when you get home from work!
Be clever with your food shop
With food inflation recently hitting a record breaking 13.3%, it’s more important than ever to be wise about how you shop. Here’s a few tips to help you save:
Go towards closing time to secure the best deals - in Aldi and Co-op, reductions typically start around 8PM; 7PM for Asda and Sainsbury’s.
Opt for food on the bottom shelf - this is a sneaky marketing trick used by most grocery shops. Often, the more expensive choices will be at eye level of the consumer, while the cheaper options can be found at the bottom of the shelf. Keep this in mind next time you go shopping!
Make a list beforehand - it sounds obvious, but having a food plan and sticking to it will help reduce your risk of impulse buying and overspending. One more thing: never go food shopping on an empty stomach…
Get creative on Facebook Marketplace
Neglected cupboard full of unwanted clothes? Ugly chest of draws you’ve been meaning to get rid of? Why not dust them off and try selling them on Facebook Marketplace or similar platform? Not only is this an easy way to make a bit of extra cash, but will also help you declutter your home for the new year. A win-win if you ask us!
Apply for a grant
The Social Workers’ Benevolent Trust (SWBT) is the only charity in the UK to offer financial support to social workers. In order to apply, you must hold a professional Social Work qualification from a UK establishment. Successful applicants could be awarded up to £450. Find out more here.
We hope you can make use of a few of these cost of living hacks! If you need further advice or someone to talk to, contact the wellbeing support line for health and social care workers on 116 123.
Looking for a new role in project-based social care? Get in touch with our specialist team via info@imperiumsolutions.co.uk or give us a call on 0203 8929 344. We recruit for a variety of roles in both adult and children's social care, which you can preview here.
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