Citizens Advice in Suffolk urges people to tackle their finances head-on in 2024
A new study's found nearly half of adults are worried about their finances heading into 2024
Citizens Advice in Suffolk is encouraging people to tackle their finances head-on this new year.
It's as a new study from National Debtline found nearly half of adults are worried about their finances heading into 2024.
Chiara Saunders is from Citizens Advice in the county, and told us the results of the survey aren't "surprising" but that people may be feeling it more this year due to the "cost of living effect", with rent and mortgages increasing, as well as the cost of food and utilities.
Upcoming bills
The beginning of the year for many can see the cost of renewals come about.
Chiara shared advice with us that if a large payment is looking scary, you may want to speak to your providers about being able to break down the payments, start a monthly direct debit or even see if you can move the renewal to another month so it's not all at once.
Getting organised
Chiara explained the benefits of facing your finances head-on: "really knowing where your money is going and how it is being spent can help you to identify different areas where you could potentially make some changes".
Chiara suggested getting a " budget sheet from a reliable source" and using that to note all of your expenses: "For example, if you're buying lunch at work every day, could you make it at home and bring it with you? Do you live near a co-worker, could you car share?"
She said small changes like this will add up over time to save money.
Knowing what's available
Another piece of advice she gave us, was to identify what other options you have: " Compare various providers to see if they can offer you a better deal" and research "social rates that are available for mobile phones and Internet connections."
She also told us about other support people may be entitled to: "If you're a pensioner, on benefits or living on your own, make sure you've got your reduction on your Council tax."
She also understands how looking through all your options can be time-consuming and overwhelming and wants to encourage people to seek out help if they need it: "It can be very overwhelming and depressing for people sometimes, and so do talk to people and do ask for help.
"Don't get stuck in your worries."