FabSwingers.com forum: Cost of living crisis

By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

What impact is this having on you? Are you cutting back ? Have you made changes? Any cost saving tips to share ?

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By *atnip make me purrWoman
over a year ago

Reading

Join money savings expert newsletter

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By *RANDMRSJAECouple
over a year ago

chester

So far, thankfully, we haven’t noticed too much

Energy bill up £50 pm (we were paying way too much before it seems) fuel is the biggest one but working from home I don’t notice.

We’re fortunate enough that can absorb a lot of the rises and plenty of sacrifices we could make if we need to.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Crisis?

What crisis?

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

"Crisis?

What crisis? "

Lol xx obviously got too much money

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

"So far, thankfully, we haven’t noticed too much

Energy bill up £50 pm (we were paying way too much before it seems) fuel is the biggest one but working from home I don’t notice.

We’re fortunate enough that can absorb a lot of the rises and plenty of sacrifices we could make if we need to. "

Good to hear x

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

"Join money savings expert newsletter"

Good tip

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

I got one of those smart meter things as I refuse to believe my direct debit should be £300 a month just for electric! Boiling the kettle is ridiculous amounts of electric. I now don’t fill it for one cuppa and have stopped boiling it about 20 times before I actually get around to making the drink! I’m on the app all the time now though watching when it goes up

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

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By *asilyled1Man
over a year ago

ogmore valley

"I got one of those smart meter things as I refuse to believe my direct debit should be £300 a month just for electric! Boiling the kettle is ridiculous amounts of electric. I now don’t fill it for one cuppa and have stopped boiling it about 20 times before I actually get around to making the drink! I’m on the app all the time now though watching when it goes up

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

10 minute freeview on the playboy channel….apparently

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

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By *inger_SnapWoman
over a year ago

Hampshire/Dorset

Always keep an eye on the smart meter, usually just go to bed as soon as it hits £2.

No luxuries being bought, started using a community larder, only buy clothes from the charity shop.

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?"

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

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By *inger_SnapWoman
over a year ago

Hampshire/Dorset

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits. "

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online. "

I know. I have done now. I’ve cancelled it and I’ll just pay monthly what I owe. I’ve always done direct debits though so it’s annoying. I argued until I was blue in the face on the phone about that amount too.

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour "

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I’ve stopped buying condoms and now I’m just raw dogging everyone

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it"

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Yorkie bar packaging has changed and less buck for my bite

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!"

Ok x cheers

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod
over a year ago

East Sussex

It is beginning to have an impact on us. We're planning on a cold house winter with several layers of c!other and blankets, we have a monthly food budget which we exceeded this month for the first time there's usually money left in it, fuel costs obviously.

We'll manage but we know there are thousands who won't

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By *eroLondonMan
over a year ago

Mayfair

"Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

•

Were you perhaps charging ALL of your WiFi smart-enabled vibrators and kinky paraphernalia?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Considering we are taxed up to the hilt on wages clothes food petrol and alike

The government are looking in to new avenues of revenue

It is believed a sex tax is now in the offing

Payed on monthly basis

And it’s inclusive of men women using hands toys

Where’s my tax rebate

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By *annaBeStrongMan
over a year ago

wokingham

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!"

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

"Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

•

Were you perhaps charging ALL of your WiFi smart-enabled vibrators and kinky paraphernalia?"

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run "

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!

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By *annaBeStrongMan
over a year ago

wokingham

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!"

Only fill up what you need. So fill a mug with water, pour that in the kettle. Anything else is wasted energy

Typically anything that heats is going to use a lot of energy. So washers, dryers, kettles, storage heaters.

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By *tephanjMan
over a year ago

Kettering

The impact for me is that now I can't afford to retire as planned on my 68th birthday. Going to have to wait at least another year

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By *rtyIanMan
over a year ago

Gateway to the Beacons

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!"

All the women now looking at the energy consumption of mains powered dildos and toys lol

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

Also (sorry I don’t mean to waffle on but if it helps other people too!). Mine is 4p an hour without actually using anything specific. Ie fridges, freezers, office stuff I have plugged in etc. Doesn’t sound much but adds up to nearly £30 a month in itself.

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!

All the women now looking at the energy consumption of mains powered dildos and toys lol"

Haha 20 seconds max with my wand.

that ain’t gonna cost much

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By *hristopherd999Man
over a year ago

Brentwood

The price of a barrel of oil has been dropping for the last 2 weeks yet this hasn't been passed on to drivers yet, half the problem is greed by the big companies

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By *etcplCouple
over a year ago

Gapping Fanny

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers "

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

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By *annaBeStrongMan
over a year ago

wokingham

If you can, upgrade your lamps too

New LED lights use about 6-8x less energy

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By *rtyIanMan
over a year ago

Gateway to the Beacons

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!

All the women now looking at the energy consumption of mains powered dildos and toys lol

Haha 20 seconds max with my wand.

that ain’t gonna cost much

It will twenty times a day haha

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

Yeah this is just electric. I don’t have one for gas. That’s about £120 a month which isn’t as bad.

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

My two meters are in the same cubby hole under the stairs so hopefully ok

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Massive and it’s caused us to procrastinate on a fairly major decision. Hubby has always earned great money in senior management, at the cost of working 90 hour weeks and being away. We are finally in a position where he has resigned and will be pursuing a complete career change but starting at the bottom and earning around 1/3 of his original salary, and no company vehicle. I have got a second job to support but rising energy costs and our weekly shop going up have meant we will have to be extremely careful for the next few years. We are still extremely lucky, I can imagine that it’s hell for a lot of families x

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By *host63Man
over a year ago

Bedfont Feltham

No longer visiting swingers clubs.

Dates at a coffee place rather than expensive dinners and home cooking more. Not using the caras much

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

"Massive and it’s caused us to procrastinate on a fairly major decision. Hubby has always earned great money in senior management, at the cost of working 90 hour weeks and being away. We are finally in a position where he has resigned and will be pursuing a complete career change but starting at the bottom and earning around 1/3 of his original salary, and no company vehicle. I have got a second job to support but rising energy costs and our weekly shop going up have meant we will have to be extremely careful for the next few years. We are still extremely lucky, I can imagine that it’s hell for a lot of families x"

Your quality of life should improve though x

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

It's car insurance renewal time.

My current supplier has hiked the premium by 50% of last year's price.

I offered them the chance of matching several quotes (all less than I paid last year) and they wouldn't budge. Result: They have lost a long standing customer.

It was obviously a try on, as clearly a number of other companies were competitive and able to offer last year's price or lower. Hey, everyone else is doubling prices, so why shouldn't we?

My advice is dig your heels in and make it clear that you don't intend to join the inflationary spiral.

Sadly, I hear a lot of people declaring how they have saved so much during a couple of years being locked down that they are easily coping. Word like that gets around the supply chain!

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By *naswingdressWoman
over a year ago

Manchester (she/her)

I'm doing ok at the moment. I'm not really going out, but that's not due to costs.

I now wash everything on cold. Never really used the dryer function. Cook almost everything in the slow cooker (and have switched to cheaper food where I can).

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By *layisbetterwithLaughterMan
over a year ago

Stourbridge

It's hard to imagine it won't impact most people in some way. Even if it just leads to behavioural changes.

One thing that really grinds me though is when my Mum and Grandma talk about how you had to live in one room in the 70s and be far more economical the minute you mention household bills. It isn't that I don't agree with it, it's just these are the same people who used to say how horrible it was and how they would never go back to that time. Poverty is crap in ANY era

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

My two meters are in the same cubby hole under the stairs so hopefully ok"

In return for the convenience of not having to bend down to occasionally read the meter, you have now given them the ability to turn off your supply remotely. They may wish to do this for a number of reasons including debt or planned selective power cuts this autumn and winter.

Congratulations!

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By *ames5169 OP Man
over a year ago

Birmingham

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

My two meters are in the same cubby hole under the stairs so hopefully ok

Congratulations!"

How’s that work?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

I've got a smart meter and got a little plug in thing to show how much I'm using at the time. Don't have an app though, sounds easier to keep an eye on. They keep trying to put my DD up, be nice to prove how much I'm actually using.

Pxx

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I,ve only made some changes I use the washing machine just once a day now I don't go out (pub) so much cheaper to drink at a friend's house & cut back on take aways that's it

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By *om and JennieCouple
over a year ago

Chams or Socials

I think the autumn is when things wi start to bite, if the energy cap goes up another £800 then everything else tied to that will go up too.

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By *ad NannaWoman
over a year ago

East London

My son has decided to put the doors back on the living room and kitchen to hold the heat in in winter. I'll probably still be sitting in a draught.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Not cutting back just yet but definitely noticed doubling of electricity plus my already expensive wheat and lactose free foods have increased. I am being more cautious now with things.

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

"So far, thankfully, we haven’t noticed too much

Energy bill up £50 pm (we were paying way too much before it seems) fuel is the biggest one but working from home I don’t notice.

We’re fortunate enough that can absorb a lot of the rises and plenty of sacrifices we could make if we need to. "

One of us was promoted at work at the start of the price rises so we're in a similar position. We are watching our spending in certain areas and economising on some things but so far, we are fortunate.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Fortunately not suffered

but cutting back on Lego purchases could save me a fortune

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I get mates rates on my tv and broadband, saved me a fortune and I can still watch the footy :D

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By *ighty_tightyMan
over a year ago

Norfolk/Suffolk

"The price of a barrel of oil has been dropping for the last 2 weeks yet this hasn't been passed on to drivers yet, half the problem is greed by the big companies"

They need to recoup the windfall tax somehow. Did nobody think that through?

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By *ighty_tightyMan
over a year ago

Norfolk/Suffolk

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

My two meters are in the same cubby hole under the stairs so hopefully ok

Congratulations!"

I highly doubt that at all. There isn't a valve inside the gas meter, so won't me able to switch that off remotely and my smart electric meter isn't big enough to house a relay/breaker suitable of carrying enough current, so equally rubbish.

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering

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By *2000ManMan
over a year ago

Worthing

For general internet and news surfing I use a Raspberry pi 3 b+. Not the fastest tech but does the job with low power usage.

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By *inger_SnapWoman
over a year ago

Hampshire/Dorset

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

You'll lose the discount though?

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

My two meters are in the same cubby hole under the stairs so hopefully ok

Congratulations!

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering "

Fair enough.

I have heard from a number of different people that there is a facility to remotely isolate, so maybe I have been scaremongered. I will, however, research further. I don't trust the blighters as far as I can throw a switch.

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By *andyfloss2000Woman
over a year ago

ashford

Not noticed yet I was dreading the gas and leccy bills arriving but tbh they were same if not bit less than usual! I have quarterly bills have been being more frugal having shower instead of baths etc food has been going up but allways been carefull don't waste cook from scratch so all good so far x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I find if you can cook big pans of stuff eg Chinese curry spaghetti bol or Indian curry something that lasts for couple of days saves gas cooking find if turn all non essential electric items of as well eg washing machine kettle etc can save money

As soon as cap comes off think we all be in for cold and expensive winter

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Don't forget the huge hike in energy costs in October!

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

"I highly doubt that at all. There isn't a valve inside the gas meter, so won't me able to switch that off remotely and my smart electric meter isn't big enough to house a relay/breaker suitable of carrying enough current, so equally rubbish.

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering "

so you've opened up smart meters to see what's inside or are you just guessing?

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By *ophieslutTV/TS
over a year ago

Central

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

Nora, I feel your pain at those charges

. Will it mean you pay more, by losing payment by direct debit discount? I've not read the thread yet, nor fully versed.

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

there's currently a movement to stop paying in advance by DD. it appears from what i've read, that many are discontented by the system which allows utilities to add to the injury of massive price increases, the insult of treating the consumer as some kind of collective merchant bank facility for their businesses.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Had to get a new job that limits my freedom even further as it pays so much better just to account for the price of going to work

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By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

I had a big fight with Shell , the reckon I owe them over 3000 on two properties, neither I agreed for them to supply but the gov instructed them when Pure went bust. Anyway I refuse to setup a DD I offered them £25 per month and said if they wish to continue supplying me fine but that’s all I’m prepared to pay. When it gets close to court action they will settle for 500 or so

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By *rHotNottsMan
over a year ago

Dubai & Nottingham

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

Nora, I feel your pain at those charges

. Will it mean you pay more, by losing payment by direct debit discount? I've not read the thread yet, nor fully versed. "

Yes £4 per fuel, per month , per account. It’s sounds a lot , it’s certainly way more than you can make on interest , but it gives you a huge amount of leverage to negotiate so worth it

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By *m389Man
over a year ago

Magherafelt

I started using company benefits as much as possible. Things such as discount shopping cards for groceries stuff like that.

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By *ora the explorerWoman
over a year ago

Paradise, Herts

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

Nora, I feel your pain at those charges

. Will it mean you pay more, by losing payment by direct debit discount? I've not read the thread yet, nor fully versed. "

No idea. But I’m not paying anything more anyway until my £700 has nearly run out which they already have. Then I’ll speak to them about a new direct debit.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I’m a student so even before the crisis i was suffering but now it’s even worse - barely eating and when I do it’s nothing special because I can’t afford my luxuries anymore and stuff like that. Had to cut down on my takeaways which I know sounds like a good thing but I have…let’s just say problems so withdrawal is tough lol. I’m very lucky to not have any ‘proper’ bills to pay other than my phone, subscriptions etc, so I’m lucky in that sense. I really feel for the families that are struggling to heat their home, put food on the table etc. If I struggle as a single person; I’d dread to think how stressful it is as part of a family with children.

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By *icecouple561Couple
Forum Mod
over a year ago

East Sussex

"I’m a student so even before the crisis i was suffering but now it’s even worse - barely eating and when I do it’s nothing special because I can’t afford my luxuries anymore and stuff like that. Had to cut down on my takeaways which I know sounds like a good thing but I have…let’s just say problems so withdrawal is tough lol. I’m very lucky to not have any ‘proper’ bills to pay other than my phone, subscriptions etc, so I’m lucky in that sense. I really feel for the families that are struggling to heat their home, put food on the table etc. If I struggle as a single person; I’d dread to think how stressful it is as part of a family with children. "

This really highlights the difference in my student experience of 45 odd years ago and now

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Every time I pass a fuel tanker I take a peel to see if someone’s left the key in it!

Just in the process of switching my cars to hybrid.

Ground Heat source pump is next for the underfloor heating

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By *partharmonyCouple
over a year ago

Ruislip

I'm pretty frugal anyway and always seek to control my costs. I'm not being particularly hard hit. Luke

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By *ohnandJulieCouple
over a year ago

"Crisis?

What crisis? "

Is this a joke??

Money or not, spare a thought for the ones who are struggling!!

We feel so sorry for them.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I’m rich

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By *heRazorsEdgeMan
over a year ago

Wales/ All over UK

I’m on a very good wage so the impact on me is far from what some people have to suffer with…

But I’ve definitely reduced my car usage, I’m being more canny with shopping purchases and picking price over convenience and I’ve become pretty obsessed with reducing my Electricity usage!

A very good tip that some don’t realise…unplug chargers or switch them off at the sockets if they’re not being used. The plug section is constantly using power even if it’s not charging something up at the time

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By *heRazorsEdgeMan
over a year ago

Wales/ All over UK

" Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Ok x cheers

The only issue you may find is if you have separate gas and electric and the meters are too far apart.

The gas for ours is round the back, while the electric is at the front and the engineer said they wouldn’t work sadly.

My two meters are in the same cubby hole under the stairs so hopefully ok

Congratulations!

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering

Fair enough.

In a previous career I was an electronic technician and I can confirm that there is absolutely no way that a smart meter would be able to actually cut off your supply. The switchgear or relay required would be far too large to fit in the plastic housing.

Your gas smart meter would have to be even bigger, as the automatically actuated valve would have to be at least the same size bore as your supply pipe, would have to be a globe type valve to ensure full isolation (more bulky again) and would also need a large electrical solenoid to actually operate it.

You’ve absolutely been scaremongered by bullshit conspiracy theories

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By *ophieslutTV/TS
over a year ago

Central

"Oh and also it is also averaging at about £120 a month! And I’m £700 in credit as they insisted on my DD going up to £293 a month! So watch them. Dodgy gits.

You don't have to accept the DD, you should be able to lower it online.

Nora, I feel your pain at those charges

. Will it mean you pay more, by losing payment by direct debit discount? I've not read the thread yet, nor fully versed.

No idea. But I’m not paying anything more anyway until my £700 has nearly run out which they already have. Then I’ll speak to them about a new direct debit. "

I don't blame you 1 bit!

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By *ickshawedCouple
over a year ago

Wolverhampton

It's had zero impact on us. We're not rich, but our expenses are minimal already. We don't drive so the price of petrol means nothing to us. Our gas and electric have gone up, but it's a small house and it's only about £115 a month for both. And I just grin and bear it when I pay for the shopping. I won't skimp on food.

I am starting to do additional hours at work, but that's because the workload is insane, not because we need the money.

I have a great deal of sympathy for those struggling, but am glad we're not.

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By *ighty_tightyMan
over a year ago

Norfolk/Suffolk

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering

so you've opened up smart meters to see what's inside or are you just guessing? "

I don't need to. I know the size of the valves/actuators and breakers that would be needed, they won't fit inside a smart meter of the size I have seen. It's physics

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By *ryandseeMan
over a year ago

Yorkshire

I am really confused how they work the dd. I spent around £90pm last year (I am on fixed plan and on a £140 dd so I built up some surplus and reduced the dd to £45 a couple of months ago). By my calculations and an average of 53% increase last April on the £90pm spent I had last year they should put my dd at about £140 when my fixed plan finishes but they are asking for £350pm. How can that be right? I know there will be another 40% increase in October but my new plan starts in August

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By *heRazorsEdgeMan
over a year ago

Wales/ All over UK

"I am really confused how they work the dd. I spent around £90pm last year (I am on fixed plan and on a £140 dd so I built up some surplus and reduced the dd to £45 a couple of months ago). By my calculations and an average of 53% increase last April on the £90pm spent I had last year they should put my dd at about £140 when my fixed plan finishes but they are asking for £350pm. How can that be right? I know there will be another 40% increase in October but my new plan starts in August"

They’re basically using DD customers as a source of ready cash.

Say you’re using £100 worth of energy a month… they set your DD at £200 a month but give you the “if you don’t use it you’ll just be in credit” line… they now have more of your money in their accounts, that they don’t legitimately need to pay for your energy, which means 2 things…

1. They’re able to use that money for financial trading/earning interest etc. while you can’t.

2. Their balance sheet looks better on quarterly returns, therefore giving a better share value, which means more profit for executives

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Wait until you’re old and need care. The extra couple of hundred a month from this will seem a pittance when you start needing to find £5-6k a month to pay for a parents care

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By *moking GunCouple
over a year ago

East Anglia

Were looking to get off the smart meter, we were paying 10 pounds a day at one point ( during the winter) and our supplier is slimy. Paying 3-4 a day as it stands and after asking, I quote.. 'nothing could ever be wrong with it, its impossible"

From my experience always steer well clear from smart meters.

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By *iaisonseekerMan
over a year ago

Liverpool

"Were looking to get off the smart meter, we were paying 10 pounds a day at one point ( during the winter) and our supplier is slimy. Paying 3-4 a day as it stands and after asking, I quote.. 'nothing could ever be wrong with it, its impossible"

From my experience always steer well clear from smart meters."

Also, the sneaky bastards can use smart meters to put you on a pre-payment tariff if they decide that you are in arrears. Which might be fair enough, if they didn't calculate bills wrong so often.

Another reason to swerve them.

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By *ighty_tightyMan
over a year ago

Norfolk/Suffolk

I must be one of the few people to have had my DD reduced and been given a refund.

Fixed to Oct 23, pure fluke

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By *ohnandJulieCouple
over a year ago

"I’m rich

Real rich people never feel the need to say it.....

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By *nliveneTV/TS
over a year ago

Selby

As a single and living alone i been struggling for the last two years. I work full time 12h/ 4 shifts a week but for last two years i been working almost every week 6 days!

House rent , electricity, gas, council tax, water, dvl,car insurance, petrol ,food ,phone,medical treatments, medical prescriptions, all this bills takes almost my wages away! Is not been easy at all ,as my life have been essential work to home and home to work and when i have day off i just sleep because i'm so exausted and i feel i have no life!

Few weeks ago i have a major breakdown, after i arrived home from work , i stayed at home for almost 5 days, without coming out of my bed, i cried so much as i just felt i reached my limit point

like never before fiscally and mentally, and with the reality that ,i'm on my own in so dificult times, with no one that i can really rely! For more controversial that may can sounds, i reduced my contract hours at work and choosed a new rota. I toke this decision as i realised, how important is to have rest , having my own free time to do things that i love and to have friends . I know i will be struggling alot but if i'm going to strugle, i don't want to feel like a presionner of this times and give away my freedom and happiness and enjoy life.

We all know the coming times don't look good to anyone, millions of people all over the country will be struggling, may as never before, and for more cruel and dramatic this may sound is going to take many lifes away, that's the painful realty, that we will be looking at

To all struggling remember to have time to yourself, if you feel that your are working horrendous hours at work and is break you down , please stop, as that is a sign showing it doesn't worth. Rethink in new strategies as there's always a solution

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"As a single and living alone i been struggling for the last two years. I work full time 12h/ 4 shifts a week but for last two years i been working almost every week 6 days!

Few weeks ago i have a major breakdown, after i arrived home from work , i stayed at home for almost 5 days, without coming out of my bed, i cried so much as i just felt i reached my limit point

Hope you're feeling better now.

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By *nliveneTV/TS
over a year ago

Selby

"As a single and living alone i been struggling for the last two years. I work full time 12h/ 4 shifts a week but for last two years i been working almost every week 6 days!

Few weeks ago i have a major breakdown, after i arrived home from work , i stayed at home for almost 5 days, without coming out of my bed, i cried so much as i just felt i reached my limit point

Hope you're feeling better now.

xx"

I do feel much better , reenergized again

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I downsized my car, and I switch off lights, appliances not being used. More by luck than judgement I am on a fixed tariff for both gas and electric for another year. £120 combined. I won't have a smart meter as I believe if you change suppliers it may not be compatible?

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By *heRazorsEdgeMan
over a year ago

Wales/ All over UK

"I downsized my car, and I switch off lights, appliances not being used. More by luck than judgement I am on a fixed tariff for both gas and electric for another year. £120 combined. I won't have a smart meter as I believe if you change suppliers it may not be compatible?"

Compatible with all suppliers. They’re not supplier specific

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By *ighty_tightyMan
over a year ago

Norfolk/Suffolk

Compatible with all suppliers. They’re not supplier specific "

Nope. Not true.

Some are, some aren't.

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By *heRazorsEdgeMan
over a year ago

Wales/ All over UK

Compatible with all suppliers. They’re not supplier specific

Nope. Not true.

Some are, some aren't."

The meter itself has to be compatible by law, what isn’t always is the display unit you have on your mantle piece

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By *romagefraisWoman
over a year ago

Sunderland

Been cutting down on going out on the lash and arranging fab meets instead for entertainment.

Driving less places too and haven't taken the kids on as many paid days out like softplays,etc.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I once had a wallet that said Rodeo on the side. It reminded me of little johnny ,he used to ride a rodeo,he was the best rodeo rider in town.

Not the end

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By *romagefraisWoman
over a year ago

Sunderland

[Removed by poster at 01/07/22 20:49:58]

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Compatible with all suppliers. They’re not supplier specific

Nope. Not true.

Some are, some aren't.

The meter itself has to be compatible by law, what isn’t always is the display unit you have on your mantle piece "

So presumably all display units are compatible with a standard meter?

I wouldn't mind one in principle, I just don't want to swap every time I change supplier if 'more installation' is involved.

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By *romagefraisWoman
over a year ago

Sunderland

Most companies off direct debit whole amount where a bill is issues and they then take the whole amount, rather than having to pay budget direct debit which is based on what they estimate you'll pay and you still get the discount.

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By *arex2Couple
over a year ago

Bradford

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!"

H. has the kettle on constantly. I make her a cuppa with just enough eater then immediately fill the kettle with enough for the next cup. That way, the water is still warm and doesn't take half the time or energy to boil.

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By *romagefraisWoman
over a year ago

Sunderland

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering

so you've opened up smart meters to see what's inside or are you just guessing?

I don't need to. I know the size of the valves/actuators and breakers that would be needed, they won't fit inside a smart meter of the size I have seen. It's physics "

Smart meters absolutely do have the facility to be disconnected (and reconnected) remotely. It's my job to analyse when there's an issue and there's a customer off supply and remotely fix it. Our team works about 140 cases daily and those are just the ones that need technical intervention, so doesn't even include the ones that our customer service advisors resolve.

A smart meter can be changed remotely into pay as you go mode so does have the valve/breaker for when the consumer's credit runs out on their meter their supply goes off.

That being said, there's no reason a supplier would want to disconnect the supply as was originally suggested. If there was too much energy being consumed which the grid couldn't handle the supply would be disconnected by the DNO rather than individuals with Smart meters only.

Even customers in debt we would just change the meter mode over to pay as you go so they would have to top up to maintain their supply, rather than us disconnect. Though I have seen many, many cases where this has been done in error, sometimes it's a user error, sometimes a system error.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"No longer visiting swingers clubs.

Dates at a coffee place rather than expensive dinners and home cooking more. Not using the car as much"

I can identify with these things.

I used to attend club's much more regularly than I do now since the price of fuel increased. My nearest club is a 45 minutes drive away.

Couple that with parking if no on street spots are available, entrance fees and drinks, it's not a cheap night out.

I've also been doing more home cooking, and rarely eat out or get takeaways nowadays.

It's shocking how much fuel has gone up. I used to be able to fill my tank for £50 now that only fills up just over half a tank!

Worst is, wages never go up!

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By *moothshaftMan
over a year ago

Coventry

We need an uprising.

This country just seems to roll over and take whatever is dealt.

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By *idzguyMan
over a year ago

coventry

Half a tank of diesel now costs me about £50 it used to cost about £25 I seem to be filling up more just to get to and from work......energy has gone up about £50. I’ve cut back, cheaper phone contract, more picky during the food shop looking for bargains etc sbd sent luxuries are a thing of the past for me

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By *moothshaftMan
over a year ago

Coventry

Has the cost of living gone up in other countries? Or just ours?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Really recommend checking out Money Buddies. Check what you’re entitled to, even if you’re working two jobs.

Also recommend turn2us and input your post code, sex and age, to see what grants may be available to you or your family members.

Ask your GP about social prescribing and speak to a local organisation who can let you know if there are any schemes in your area such as free supermarket vouchers, free SIM cards with free data and calls for 6 months, to help reduce some of your current bills. I really feel for people on benefits and I also really feel for everyone working to the max who feel guilty for treating themselves. It’s not right. X

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By *orny PTMan
over a year ago

Peterborough

Anyone on universal credit can have broadband and the new fangled digital phone line for £20 every month for 12 months: 63 megs. I've just qualified for it.

BT call it Social Tariff, check out MSE for more details as well.

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By *nabelle21Woman
over a year ago

B38

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Sometime ago a friend of mine invested in a a one cup kettle maker.

It only dispenses 1 cup of boiling water at a time.

I am really bad at keep heating the kettle back up. I need to be more conscience about that.

Best thing to do Nora is take the fuses out after you go to bed.

My mom used to take the phone to work with her.

I have 3 sisters. You can imagine how much the phone bill would've been with 4 teenagers all using it.

Money was tight and my mom was careful with it

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By *iger4uWoman
over a year ago

In my happy place

Im not struggling.

Because I have always looked to stretch my money where I can.

But I shop less, and drive less. My only debt is my small mortgage.

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By *haneSugarMan
over a year ago

Lincolnshire

Earn more. Spend less. Problem solved.

On a serious note, not doing too bad with working full time and running a home. It's just a kicker seeing more funding going on fuel and tax etc when it could be going on leisure and fun.

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By *orny PTMan
over a year ago

Peterborough

"It's car insurance renewal time.

My current supplier has hiked the premium by 50% of last year's price.

I offered them the chance of matching several quotes (all less than I paid last year) and they wouldn't budge. Result: They have lost a long standing customer.

It was obviously a try on, as clearly a number of other companies were competitive and able to offer last year's price or lower. Hey, everyone else is doubling prices, so why shouldn't we?

My advice is dig your heels in and make it clear that you don't intend to join the inflationary spiral.

Sadly, I hear a lot of people declaring how they have saved so much during a couple of years being locked down that they are easily coping. Word like that gets around the supply chain!

"1 days before renewal is the best time to catch the lowest price. Haggle on the phone as well, as they can reduce their premium or excess, if you ask nicely. MSE to the rescue again.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'll be going to the food bank. First time in my life that I've had to have a hand out

If it wasnt for my kids, I'd be off the grid!!

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By *ecadent_DevonMan
over a year ago

Okehampton

I’m doing okay and I won’t complain. But then my washing hangs on a line, I prefer candle light and I quite like salad cream sandwiches

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Fortunately I'm working again and it's a good hourly rate but I'm not being complacent. I'm still looking for another permanent job since the last new one didn't work out. I'm lucky that my bills are low and it's just myself I need to feed and pay rent. I'm not doing anything differently except keeping my money and only spending when I physically have to x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Get rid of that smart meter, that's what's putting up your electricity. I'll never get one x

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By *0shadesOfFilthMan
over a year ago

nearby

Uk inflation 9%

Worse in much of Europe

Estonia 20.1%

Lithuania 18.5%

Latvia 16.8%

Czechia 15.2%

Bulgaria 13.4%

Poland 12.8%

Romania 12.4%

Slovakia 11.8%

Hungary 10.8%

Croatia 10.7%

Greece 10.5%

Netherlands 10.2%

Belgium 9.9%

Luxembourg 9.1%

Cyprus 8.8%

Germany 8.7%

Slovenia 8%

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I’m lucky in that it hasn’t really impacted me, I don’t have additional costs outside the usual household bills. Electricity & gas is covered for a long time yet as am in credit to a four figure sum, apparently we are a very low usage household and DD reduced to £50 a month. Happy to leave it there to cover any rises coming this year.

The only thing I’ve noticed for essentials is food prices. I’ve always been savvy with food shopping anyway, batch cooking, 3 for £10 on meats / fish helps decide the menu, get two of these and I can normally make enough different meals for two weeks, with some in the freezer. Some things have gone stupid prices, which makes you think twice what you buy and from where.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Uk inflation 9%

Worse in much of Europe

Estonia 20.1%

Lithuania 18.5%

Latvia 16.8%

Czechia 15.2%

Bulgaria 13.4%

Poland 12.8%

Romania 12.4%

Slovakia 11.8%

Hungary 10.8%

Croatia 10.7%

Greece 10.5%

Netherlands 10.2%

Belgium 9.9%

Luxembourg 9.1%

Cyprus 8.8%

Germany 8.7%

Slovenia 8%"

Wow, that changes my perspective on things somewhat.

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By *ecadent_DevonMan
over a year ago

Okehampton

I can’t get the other horse I want, which I suppose isn’t really struggling is it?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I can’t get the other horse I want, which I suppose isn’t really struggling is it? "

That's just too sad.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'm doing ok, not worrying at this time. Nothing has changed really

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By *ecadent_DevonMan
over a year ago

Okehampton

"I can’t get the other horse I want, which I suppose isn’t really struggling is it?

That's just too sad."

He’s a beaut, a youngster too, built for hacking, but I can’t afford the additional vet bills/farrier

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By *oncupiscentTonyMan
over a year ago

Kent

Now only buying the 3 finger KitKats

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I can’t get the other horse I want, which I suppose isn’t really struggling is it?

That's just too sad.

He’s a beaut, a youngster too, built for hacking, but I can’t afford the additional vet bills/farrier "

Forgo the shoes and feed him salad cream sandwiches by candle light. It'll be fine.

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By *ecadent_DevonMan
over a year ago

Okehampton

"I can’t get the other horse I want, which I suppose isn’t really struggling is it?

That's just too sad.

He’s a beaut, a youngster too, built for hacking, but I can’t afford the additional vet bills/farrier

Forgo the shoes and feed him salad cream sandwiches by candle light. It'll be fine."

I shall buy dear Aeolus when things get better, patience is the key.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Things are a bit of a struggle in our house. I've always been good at budgeting but I've had to really review things over the last few months and change how I shop, how I cook, even how I drive. Today my GP arranged an appointment for me with the Social Prescriber. I'm sure things will be OK if I remain vigilant, but it takes up an awful lot of mental and emotional energy.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Really recommend checking out Money Buddies. Check what you’re entitled to, even if you’re working two jobs.

Also recommend turn2us and input your post code, sex and age, to see what grants may be available to you or your family members.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Entitled to. Org is another good website.

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By *nliveneTV/TS
over a year ago

Selby

"Uk inflation 9%

Worse in much of Europe

Estonia 20.1%

Lithuania 18.5%

Latvia 16.8%

Czechia 15.2%

Bulgaria 13.4%

Poland 12.8%

Romania 12.4%

Slovakia 11.8%

Hungary 10.8%

Croatia 10.7%

Greece 10.5%

Netherlands 10.2%

Belgium 9.9%

Luxembourg 9.1%

Cyprus 8.8%

Germany 8.7%

Slovenia 8%

Wow, that changes my perspective on things somewhat. "

Portugal is the only country in Europe at this moment with lowest inflaction 5.8% provision for this year

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've always been fairly frugal with all day to day things, procure most of our own meat, and bulk buying helps also. I've actually dropped on average 12-30 hours a week, and it's not affected my wages too much. Seems smashing the overtime mainly benefitted the tax man

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering

so you've opened up smart meters to see what's inside or are you just guessing?

I don't need to. I know the size of the valves/actuators and breakers that would be needed, they won't fit inside a smart meter of the size I have seen. It's physics "

you're talking unsubstantiated nonsense in that case.

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

"Has the cost of living gone up in other countries? Or just ours? "

i'm been working ongoing in spain rolling out their solar network infrastructure. aside from petrol/diesel, the prices have risen nowhere near as much as they have in the UK. the UK government appears to be intent on stiffing us for some reason or other.

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By *uckandbunnyCouple
over a year ago

The Wild Wetness

It's not great and anyone on a tight budget or using credit is going to struggle.

We've always been fairly frugal, so tried to always have a gap between income and outgoings just in case.

So it will get tighter for us but not to the same extent as some who have to decide between food and fuel.

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By *estless nativeMan
over a year ago

near Glasgow

We dont have a cost of living crisis, we have a cost of greed crisis

Number of UK billionaires up by more than 500% in the last decade, 180 people hoarding over £700b in wealth

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

"In a previous career I was an electronic technician and I can confirm that there is absolutely no way that a smart meter would be able to actually cut off your supply. The switchgear or relay required would be far too large to fit in the plastic housing.

You’ve absolutely been scaremongered by bullshit conspiracy theories "

if what you have written contained even the slightest modicum of fact then pre-payment meters would be a figment of our collective imaginations to be fair.

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By *0shadesOfFilthMan
over a year ago

nearby

"We dont have a cost of living crisis, we have a cost of greed crisis

Number of UK billionaires up by more than 500% in the last decade, 180 people hoarding over £700b in wealth "

How many of those are paying UK tax

75,000 people pay HMRC £30,000 a year for the non dom scheme to avoid paying tax on assets and income from overseas

Chancellors wife is one of them, using non dom for 8 years to avoid paying tax on £12M a year received from dividends. While her husband rocks up for a staged bbc energy crisis photo shoot in a borrowed KIA Rio while he has four luxury cars on his drive.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I've had to move home with my parents.

I was already splitting costs with housemates but they've climbed too high for us.

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

But anyway, congrats on scaremongering

so you've opened up smart meters to see what's inside or are you just guessing?

I don't need to. I know the size of the valves/actuators and breakers that would be needed, they won't fit inside a smart meter of the size I have seen. It's physics

you're talking unsubstantiated nonsense in that case.

Nobody is asking them to put the switch gear in the meter enclosure.

just wait for the smart fuse box to come along once they've got you all on smart meters which can communicate with them.

They have had remote switching for night storage heaters for decades.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Candles for night time lighting.

Only necessary car runs.

Shop the aldi.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Instead of a take away I buy a steak and save myself £15 or so and it tastes better and is more satisfying. I've got led lights in every room, my wood burner for winter and I've got a few things off the water board to save water as I'm on a meter, they were all easy to install.

Being a tradesman helps as I can make all my improvements myself. It's not a great business strategy but I could offer my services for payment in kind

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By *ightkitty4uWoman
over a year ago

Epsom

My electric has gone from £24 a month to £55 gas £24 to £50

Fuel is ridiculous, £90 to fill up my A1 from empty yesterday. Was £45 when bought it in 2019!

Totally struggling as live on my own so one income. Have 3 part time jobs and one full time in a bid to keep my head above water yet no idea how long until I burn out

Just makes me angry ??

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By *layisbetterwithLaughterMan
over a year ago

Stourbridge

Bearing in mind the Energy price cap was c£1200 at the start of the year, OFGEM announced it could rise to c£2900 in December and above 3k in Jan 22.

Naturally these hikes occur in the depths of winter. I'm not a heavy socialist, but I can see little political argument for a hands off approach to financial aid to the electorate by the government.

That could literally kill people, as we know heating plays an important role in respiratory illnesses.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Keeping you busy !! Do you recommend getting a smart meter then ?

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ok we are being offered one so I’ll do it

It’s worth it. Does make you realise how much you’re using. Oven is quite a lot. Fans in the bedroom aren’t as bad as I thought they would be. Tumble dryer is a lot!

Look up the energy use of applicants to get an idea

For example, standard fan is about 100w

Most kettles are between 2-3kw (2000-3000w)

You can quickly see what’s expensive to run

Honestly couldn’t believe the kettle! And I do use it an awful lot!"

Boil the kettle, make your cuppa.

Pour the rest of the boiling water into a thermos.

Ready for the next cuppa, not need to boil the kettle again gor a while.

Winston

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ask yourselves why would the supplier want to help you use less electricity other than so they can produce less while putting up the price to compensate for your reduced consumption?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Nice to see the tories helping themselves to 2k payrise.

Then it is forgotten by the news outlet as if it never happened.

They are taking the absolute piss out of all of us

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By *UGGYBEAR2015Man
over a year ago

BRIDPORT

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ask yourselves why would the supplier want to help you use less electricity other than so they can produce less while putting up the price to compensate for your reduced consumption?"

It’s not actually a supplier led initiative.

It’s a government led thing and the suppliers have been given targets for these installations that they are supposed to meet.

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By *iaisonseekerMan
over a year ago

Liverpool

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ask yourselves why would the supplier want to help you use less electricity other than so they can produce less while putting up the price to compensate for your reduced consumption?"

Exactly right - the extra data that they gather is just used to protect their profits. See, for instance, the hike in standing charges for energy.

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ask yourselves why would the supplier want to help you use less electricity other than so they can produce less while putting up the price to compensate for your reduced consumption?

It’s not actually a supplier led initiative.

It’s a government led thing and the suppliers have been given targets for these installations that they are supposed to meet. "

Oops! I completely forgot that nobody in the government has any vested interest in making money.

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By *iaisonseekerMan
over a year ago

Liverpool

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ask yourselves why would the supplier want to help you use less electricity other than so they can produce less while putting up the price to compensate for your reduced consumption?

It’s not actually a supplier led initiative.

It’s a government led thing and the suppliers have been given targets for these installations that they are supposed to meet.

Oops! I completely forgot that nobody in the government has any vested interest in making money."

Yes, it's not like big business ever influences government policy!

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By *UGGYBEAR2015Man
over a year ago

BRIDPORT

They offered it free and just came in and fitted it. It’s handy as you can see on the app exactly how much you’re using each half hour

Ask yourselves why would the supplier want to help you use less electricity other than so they can produce less while putting up the price to compensate for your reduced consumption?

It’s not actually a supplier led initiative.

It’s a government led thing and the suppliers have been given targets for these installations that they are supposed to meet.

Oops! I completely forgot that nobody in the government has any vested interest in making money."

I’m sure there are many in positions of influence who have vested interests.

I was simply pointing out where the initiative came from, individuals can make what they will of that.

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By *ealthy_and_HungMan
over a year ago

Princes Risborough, Luasanne, Alderney

"Nobody is asking them to put the switch gear in the meter enclosure"

google Magnetic latching Relays, full bridge circuits, motor control driver IC's....

basically you were correct in what you first wrote. the guys who attempted to correct you were wholly wrong.

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By *ohnandJulieCouple
over a year ago

"Crisis?

What crisis? "

We are loaded. More than most people dream of.

But your comment??

Arsehole comment.

We never forget where we came from, shame for the ones that do!!

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By *ornucopiaMan
over a year ago

Bexley

"Nobody is asking them to put the switch gear in the meter enclosure

google Magnetic latching Relays, full bridge circuits, motor control driver IC's....

basically you were correct in what you first wrote. the guys who attempted to correct you were wholly wrong."

I am also assuming that, in this day and age, the switching doesn't have to be mechanical at all but may still involve some beefy devices.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"My electric has gone from £24 a month to £55 gas £24 to £50

Fuel is ridiculous, £90 to fill up my A1 from empty yesterday. Was £45 when bought it in 2019!

Totally struggling as live on my own so one income. Have 3 part time jobs and one full time in a bid to keep my head above water yet no idea how long until I burn out

Just makes me angry ??

I completely understand. It’s a kick in the teeth when it is all companies putting prices up, not just energy providers but landlords, car insurance, too. It feels like everyone is just demanding our money. I don’t see why I should have to house share just to afford to live! I value my independence x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Having less coffees, food and drinks out. Not buying things I don't really need. Using top cash back and searching for the best deals for anything I do need to buy.

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By *rincess peachWoman
over a year ago

shits creek

Looking like it won't be long before I have the Internet turned off to save some money, not sure how that'll work though coz I'm locked into a contract.

Stopped buying actual food and get 2 loaves of bread a week and just have toast.

Gonna have to ask for extra shifts so I do more doubles. 30-45 hr working week isn't enough to run a home on on a single wage and actually eat.

I get a monthly bus pass but with the bus companies running on 50% staffing levels my bus has become so unreliable sometimes it doesn't even run (but doesn't tell you, according to the app it's on its way) and I end up forking out for a taxi or being late (and I leave with plenty of time for delays or the odd bus not turning up)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Right now we are not too badly affect, I have noticed my food shop go up quite considerably but I have adapted and adjusted so less of an impact.

I know things will get more difficult as the weather gets colder but we will use electric heaters and the electric fire instead of the central heating as it's more cost effective.

We have reduced the amount of subscriptions we have and downgraded are sky package. At the moment we seem to be managing with limited sacrifices but I'm aware things may get harder. I'm a good cook and have always shopped and cooked on a budget and I'm an expert batch cooker so I'm hoping this will be enough to help us get by with a few extra changes.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Looking like it won't be long before I have the Internet turned off to save some money, not sure how that'll work though coz I'm locked into a contract.

Stopped buying actual food and get 2 loaves of bread a week and just have toast.

Gonna have to ask for extra shifts so I do more doubles. 30-45 hr working week isn't enough to run a home on on a single wage and actually eat.

This might sound like a stupid suggestion and I'm sure it's something you have thought of but it's coming a good place. Places in the hospitality industry are screaming out for people, Is it possible to get a job closer to home that you could walk to?

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By *antricSeeker60Man
over a year ago

Durham

Like Bonzo went to Bitberg for a cup of tea.

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By *ady LickWoman
over a year ago

Northampton Somewhere

No massive changes atm, £20 a week on food and obviously petrol. We fixed our energy rate a while ago.

One thing we will do is change our internet provider, we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

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By *iamondCougarWoman
over a year ago

Norfuck! / Lincolnshire

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

Ha ha I’ve stopped boiling the kettle several times before I make a drink and the oven is off completely. I don’t need it for just the clock! Only switch it on when I’m cooking and the lounge tv is off at the plug if not being used

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By *he Secret Tea PartyCouple
over a year ago

London

"my already expensive wheat and lactose free foods have increased"

Same for me, they already were very expensive too

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By *he Secret Tea PartyCouple
over a year ago

London

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate! "

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

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By *orny PTMan
over a year ago

Peterborough

"It's car insurance renewal time.

My current supplier has hiked the premium by 50% of last year's price.

I offered them the chance of matching several quotes (all less than I paid last year) and they wouldn't budge. Result: They have lost a long standing customer.

It was obviously a try on, as clearly a number of other companies were competitive and able to offer last year's price or lower. Hey, everyone else is doubling prices, so why shouldn't we?

My advice is dig your heels in and make it clear that you don't intend to join the inflationary spiral.

Sadly, I hear a lot of people declaring how they have saved so much during a couple of years being locked down that they are easily coping. Word like that gets around the supply chain!

"1 days before renewal is the best time to catch the lowest price. Haggle on the phone as well, as they can reduce their premium or excess, if you ask nicely. MSE to the rescue again."

21 days: typo!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"my already expensive wheat and lactose free foods have increased

Same for me, they already were very expensive too

KM"

Yep, noticed this too. My local supermarket has stopped selling usual vegan butter which was 90p for 500gm.

Now I have to bye lactose free for £1.85 for 250gms. Im not impressed one bit

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By *eadinthecloudsMan
over a year ago

Manchester

Using the car as little as possible. 2 wheels all the way for me

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By *ady LickWoman
over a year ago

Northampton Somewhere

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

KM"

Tried that, they told us leave!

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By *om and JennieCouple
over a year ago

Chams or Socials

. I’ve turned into a nightmare. Right who was up at 2:30am and why did the electric go up so high at that time

We were told many years ago by the fire brigade to switch everything off at the wall when not in use. We are low energy users but the price increase has hit us.

Luckily my uncle works for Virgin so I get a good deal (we really only need internet) but I wouldn’t hesitate to leave them for a free view service. It gets my goat that it’s cheaper to have a package with a landline. We have unplugged the landline & only use our mobiles - I get a 20% discount with EE via work.

J x

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By *tooveMan
over a year ago

belfast

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!"

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

You actually need to be put through to the Cancellation department. I will add it wont-work if you are still in contract.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

We got more that half off ours. I told them I had seen a deal they currently had online and I wanted that one otherwise I would leave.

The guy told me to leave so I said fine put me through to cancellation, The man I spoke to in cancellation was amazing and my bill was cut in half.

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By *icolerobbieCouple
over a year ago

walsall

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

We got more that half off ours. I told them I had seen a deal they currently had online and I wanted that one otherwise I would leave.

The guy told me to leave so I said fine put me through to cancellation, The man I spoke to in cancellation was amazing and my bill was cut in half. "

Just having to listen to that gosh awful music when they put you on hold is enough to never return to virgin media

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

We got more that half off ours. I told them I had seen a deal they currently had online and I wanted that one otherwise I would leave.

The guy told me to leave so I said fine put me through to cancellation, The man I spoke to in cancellation was amazing and my bill was cut in half.

Just having to listen to that gosh awful music when they put you on hold is enough to never return to virgin media"

I probably should have said this was actually sky not Virgin.

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By *icolerobbieCouple
over a year ago

walsall

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

We got more that half off ours. I told them I had seen a deal they currently had online and I wanted that one otherwise I would leave.

The guy told me to leave so I said fine put me through to cancellation, The man I spoke to in cancellation was amazing and my bill was cut in half.

Just having to listen to that gosh awful music when they put you on hold is enough to never return to virgin media

I probably should have said this was actually sky not Virgin. "

Is there soundtrack any better?

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By *ryan...Man
over a year ago

1950's Original

"Now only buying the 3 finger KitKats "
..

Well done .

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"we're with Virgin Media atm and its extortionate!

They lower your price when you call and select the option for leaving them.

I get about £10 off a month every time

Tried that, they told us leave!

They told me to leave to when I tried yet all these other people get discounts.

We got more that half off ours. I told them I had seen a deal they currently had online and I wanted that one otherwise I would leave.

The guy told me to leave so I said fine put me through to cancellation, The man I spoke to in cancellation was amazing and my bill was cut in half.

Just having to listen to that gosh awful music when they put you on hold is enough to never return to virgin media

I probably should have said this was actually sky not Virgin.

Is there soundtrack any better?"

It's more tolerable and they answer the phone quicker.

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