Managing money around Christmas

[Puzzledstill]

im single and have a 14yr old and a 2yr old we’ve had quite a rubbish year, I really want a nice Christmas for my children so for them some nice things and my son sone nice clothes and lots of goodies. I work and get my wages the start of every month I’ve got money for my bills and Christmas food shop but won’t be left with much after. I suppose waiting to the start of jan won’t be too bad with all the Christmas leftovers just feel guilty I’ve spent my monthly wages in one sitting but my children will have a nice Christmas

Might be worth seeing if you can get to shops late on Xmas eve and get lots of discount food, joints etc.

Maybe think about setting up a credit union account for December/January next year. Even a direct debit for £10 a month would help.

meanwhile, dont be so hard on yourself

Do you have Facebook? Feed myself for £1 a day is really good for cheap family friendly recipes.

When I'm skint we tend to have cheap meals like jacket potatoes, pasta bakes, potato bake, casseroles.

For next year could you not buy the odd thing here and there and spread out the costs? That's what I do and it really helps. Hope you have a lovely Christmas.

@onefedupmum next year that’s the plan and thanks have a beautiful Christmas x

We've done that figure to last a week for 5 of us in the past. Use everything in cupboards, soup etc is good for a tea.
No need to buy treats im sure the dcs get loads for xmas.
Part bake baguettes are good to keep in cupboard, egg inside perfect quick lunch /tea.