Where should I spend my money?

[BandyMcFab]

Name changed but regular.

My DP and I are in the fortunate scenario of not being badly financially affected by Covid19. We're naturally frugal and happy with a simple life. We haven't spent much at all since lock down and are particularly saving on fuel.

It led us to thinking that we SHOULD be finding ways to spend some money to help stimulate the economy. So far the best I've come up with is British Firms who pay taxes. Anyone (economists?!) advise as to what we should buy to help support the economy? Or where we should spend some money?

I'm not talking thousands here, but more in general.

How lovely of you! I'd go for supporting small local businesses. Buying flowers for friends, getting coffee and cake from your local coffee shops etc. Maybe buy membership to your local RSPB place or national trust membership?

We are in the same position and I have been trying to do things like ordering veg boxes from local places and meal kits/take outs from local restaurants that can’t open. Just using more small businesses and avoiding chains.
And we have moved a few holidays rather than cancelling and asking for a refund.

Can you do your weekly shop with local stores rather than the big supermarkets?

Take a walk down your nearest shopping street what businesses are open, who has gone online.

Any outdoor work you can get done? Garden landscaped, a summer room built in the garden, house painted?

Also, charities and food banks. Donate ro Women's aid

We are eating local takeaways, donating to the local food bank and womens DV centre. I've had my lawn cut and my car washed (mobile washer).

Donate not just to women's aid but other grass roots groups for women

These groups, often constituted as their legal status not charities, really suffer and charities are able to get more funding.

Keep as many spends as possible local and independent.

Some good ideas here thanks. I would like to treat myself to a few nice soaps and toiletries so I'll have a look at homemade type businesses locally too or at least ones who can post it to me!

Agree with @SciFiScream . Maybe ask at your local place of worship if they do any women's work or soup kitchens and if you can donate to that mission? Very kind of you.

Also maybe booking local (staycation) for next season. Purchasing from independent shops for clothes and groceries.

If there are any shops or businesses you'd really miss, think about spending some money there when they're open. And, yes, if you can keep it British that's good. As said smaller businesses will need the money more than supermarkets at the moment, so yes a few luxuries. If you're tempted by a holiday/break in the next year or so, keep it UK based.