Managing Money When You’re Struggling
- Tori Lynn Crowther
- Feb 11
- 9 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Managing Money When You’re Struggling
I know it feels overwhelming when every penny matters. Take comfort: you’re not alone. Many people face tight budgets or debt, and help is out there. Small steps – even tiny ones – can make a difference. In this guide we offer practical, non-judgmental advice in easy steps. Start by understanding your situation and then move forward with one change at a time.
1. Prioritise Your Debts
When money is very tight, some debts need urgent attention. Priority debts include things like rent or mortgage, council tax, utility bills, court fines or child support. Falling behind on these can lead to serious consequences (like eviction, legal action or disconnection) . Cover those first as far as you can.
For other debts (credit cards, payday loans, store cards, personal loans), use the interest-rate approach: list each debt with its interest rate (APR) and minimum payment. Always pay at least the minimum on all debts to avoid penalties . Then, put any extra money toward the debt with the highest interest rate first . This “pay the most expensive debt first” method means your debt won’t grow as fast, so you’ll save money over time . For example, paying an extra £20 a month on a 20% APR credit card instead of on a 5% loan saves more in interest. Once the highest-rate debt is cleared, roll that payment into the next-highest APR debt, and so on .
Priority vs Non-Priority: Keep up with rent/mortgage, energy and council tax first . Then focus on high-interest unsecured debts.
Avalanche method: Continue paying minimums on all debts, but direct any spare cash to the debt with the highest APR .
Remember support: If payments feel impossible, free advice charities like StepChange or Citizens Advice can negotiate with lenders or set up a manageable plan .
Every bit you clear helps – it’s one step closer to breathing room.
2. Budgeting with (Almost) No Spare Cash
A budget isn’t about restriction; it’s about clarity and control . When you map out exactly what’s coming in and where it’s going, it can reduce anxiety. Start by writing down every penny of income (wages, benefits, odd jobs, gifts) and every expense. Include big items (rent, bills, food) and even small ones (bus fares, school uniforms, toiletries) . This shows the true picture of your finances.
Next, split spending into “needs” and “wants”. Needs are essentials: housing, food, medication, utilities . Wants are non-essentials (streaming services, takeaways, new clothes). When money is scarce, cover all the needs first . For wants, prioritise. Maybe choose one small treat a week rather than daily. It helps to involve anyone you live with in this budget (kids, partner) so you’re all on the same plan .
Consider free tools or simple methods: MoneyHelper’s free Budget Planner can guide you through each category . Even an envelope system or a note on the fridge works. The goal is to make spending visible. For example, plan weekly meals so you only buy what you’ll use, avoiding impulse buys. Review and update your budget frequently – each week or month – to catch any changes. Over time, you’ll see where a few pounds can be safely trimmed and gain confidence that you’re managing despite hardship.
3. Spotting Small Money Leaks
When cash is tight, tiny wasteful habits really add up. Here are common “money leaks” and how to plug them:
Over-boiling the kettle. Only boil as much water as needed for each cup. This can save around £12 a year on energy . Also, regularly clean limescale from the kettle – a clean kettle boils faster and uses less power .
Letting food spoil. The average UK family of four wastes the equivalent of about £1,000 of food annually . Plan meals ahead, freeze leftovers (cooked meals, bread, bananas for smoothies) and use apps like Love Food Hate Waste for recipes, so you use up all your groceries . Every time you avoid throwing food away, that’s money saved.
Heating empty rooms. Turn down or turn off radiators in rooms you’re not using. Fitting thermostatic radiator valves (easy DIY) and keeping them low (setting 2–3) in spare rooms can cut gas use and save £30–£40 a year . Even lowering the overall thermostat by 1 °C (e.g. from 20 °C to 19 °C) can save about £80 a year . Every bit helps.
Using appliances half-empty. A half-full washing machine or dishwasher uses almost the same power/water as a full one. Filling them properly (about ¾ full) cuts waste. Skipping even one extra wash cycle per week can save about £11 per year . Keep a laundry bag for small items (tea towels, gym clothes) until you have a full load, and only run the dishwasher when it’s packed.
Unnecessary subscriptions and fees. Check bank statements and direct debits. Cancel any memberships you don’t really use (streaming services, gym, apps) or switch to lower-cost options. Likewise, small daily treats (takeaway coffees, snacks, lottery tickets) can quietly drain dozens of pounds a month. Brewing tea/coffee at home and carrying a packed lunch could save hundreds each year.
Each of these changes is simple and won’t feel like hard deprivation – but together they can free up extra cash for essentials.
4. Cutting Costs without Feeling Deprived
It’s possible to save a lot without feeling like you’re missing out. Here are some ideas:
Cook tasty, cheap meals. Opt for budget-friendly staples like pasta, rice, oats, beans and seasonal vegetables. Reduce meat (swap some meals to vegetarian – beans or lentils work well). Buy own-brand groceries and use loyalty cards or cashback apps carefully – only for things you already need . Batch-cook and freeze; have a rotating menu of favourites so dinner feels familiar and comforting.
Free or low-cost fun. Look for free community activities: local libraries offer books, DVDs and sometimes free events; parks and walking trails cost nothing; try free online fitness videos instead of a pricey gym. Have movie nights at home with popcorn or game nights with board games you already own. A “cheap treat” list (baking together, a board game) can replace expensive nights out.
Cut utility bills further. Switch energy or broadband suppliers if there’s a cheaper deal – it’s usually a quick process (Ofgem says moving takes ~15 days) . Also check mobile phone plans: you may be overpaying for data you don’t use. Call your provider or shop around – sometimes a simpler SIM-only plan costs much less .
Secondhand and swaps. When you do need items (clothes, furniture, kids’ toys), look at charity shops, freecycle, or swap groups. These are often hidden treasures and it’s fun to hunt for a bargain. Sell or swap things you no longer need online (Facebook Marketplace, eBay, etc.) for a bit of extra cash.
Budget entertainments. Cancel pay TV or streaming for a month and try free trials or ad-supported services. Borrow books or films from friends or libraries. Host potluck meals with friends instead of pricey nights out. Simple pleasures (a walk with a friend, a hot bath) can be as satisfying as costly ones.
The key is balance. Every week, allow yourself one small enjoyable thing if possible, but adjust elsewhere. Even choosing tap water or a homemade drink instead of a bar order can save money while still keeping comfort. These tips help your money go further and keep morale up – you don’t have to give up treats, just do them more cheaply.
5. UK Support Schemes and Resources
Finally, know there is help available in the UK for people in tight spots – including for the self-employed:
Government help: Check if you can claim Universal Credit, Tax Credits, or Help with Health Costs (NHS Low Income Scheme) to boost your income. The Turn2us Benefits Calculator can show you what you might be entitled to. Local councils run hardship schemes (the Household Support Fund) to help pay for essentials like heating or food . For example, councils may offer emergency grants or food vouchers if you’re on very low income . In England and Wales, budget help schemes have been extended to 2026 .
Food and essentials: If you truly have no money for food, local foodbanks (Trussell Trust or independent) can help with a short supply of groceries and fuel vouchers . You’ll usually need a free referral (from CAB, a doctor, or social worker), but it’s confidential and without judgment. Many communities also have charities for clothes, furniture or household items. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Free debt advice: Charities like StepChange (stepchange.org) and Citizens Advice offer free, confidential advice on managing debt and benefits . StepChange in particular is non-profit and provides plans without any fees . For the self-employed or small businesses, Business Debtline (businessdebtline.org) is a specialist free service whose advisers have been in your shoes . They can help sort out personal and business debts. National Debtline (0808 808 4000) also offers free phone/webchat advice across the UK. Use their online tools (budget planner, repayment options) to prepare before you call – it can make the advice go further.
Budgeting & toolkits: Use online tools to get organized. MoneyHelper’s Budget Planner and Bill Prioritiser can help sort your finances . For example, the Bill Prioritiser shows which bills to pay first and who to call for help . Turn2us runs a grants search with 1,400+ funds for people in need – you may qualify for small grants (like for utilities, clothing, or one-off emergencies).
Self-employed specific: If you work for yourself, remember you can still claim benefits if income is low (Universal Credit, New Style ESA if sick). MoneyHelper’s guide for the self-employed explains how to apply . Citizens Advice’s “Help to Claim” service (0800 numbers) can assist with applying for Universal Credit. Business Debtline (above) specifically helps sole traders and small business owners . The Federation of Small Businesses (fsb.org.uk) and local enterprise agencies may also have advice or occasional hardship grants.
For all of the above, no one will judge you for seeking help. These services exist because many people face hardship, and support is available to get you through. They want to help you find stability.
Keep going – one step at a time. You’re doing your best in a tough situation. Use this guide to find small wins and support. Even tiny savings or debt reductions add up. And remember, there are organisations and people ready to help. You deserve relief and a clear path forward – and with each step you take, you’re moving closer to it. Stay strong, look after yourself, and reach out if you need assistance; help is there for you.
Resources (UK): For free budgeting help, see MoneyHelper’s tools (Budget Planner, Bill Prioritiser) . Citizens Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk) offers debt & benefit advice nationwide. StepChange (stepchange.org) and Business Debtline (businessdebtline.org) provide free debt counselling . Turn2us (turn2us.org.uk) has a Benefits Calculator and Grants Search . Check your local council’s website or the gov.uk page on Household Support Fund for emergency aid, and Trussell Trust (trusselltrust.org) for foodbanks .
A Note on Business, Money & Professionalism
This guide is written on one clear assumption: you are running a business, not a hobby.
Pet care may be driven by passion, but it is also your income, your responsibility, and your future. Loving the work does not remove the need for proper pricing, planning, and financial structure. In fact, it makes those things even more important.
You are allowed to:
Charge enough to make your business sustainable and secure
Put systems in place that protect your income automatically
Set clear financial and professional boundaries with clients
Expect to be paid on time and treated with respect
Take money seriously without feeling greedy or uncomfortable
Build a business that supports you, not one that drains you
Financial stability is not selfish. It is what allows you to show up consistently, make good decisions, and continue doing this work without burnout.
Professional success starts with self-respect. And pet care businesses built on self-respect don’t just survive — they thrive for the long term.
About Tori Lynn C. & The Dog House
Welcome to The Dog House — my cosy corner of the TLC Canine Crusaders Business Hub. I’m Tori Lynn C., the founder of TLC Dog Walking Limited, mentor to professional dog walkers, and lifelong advocate for dogs and the people who care for them. With over 17 years of hands-on experience in the industry, my mission is to guide you through the realities of running a successful, sustainable dog walking business — from client care and safety to wellbeing, confidence, and professional growth.
The Dog House is where I share the honest, behind-the-scenes conversations we all need: the tricky moments, the funny bits, the business lessons, and the mindset work that keeps us thriving rather than merely surviving. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, you’ll always find support, guidance, and a friendly nudge forward here.
You’re never alone in this journey — you’re part of a community of canine crusaders.
Legal Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for general information and educational purposes only. It is intended to support pet care professionals in understanding common legal considerations when operating a dog walking or pet care business in the UK.
This content does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for advice from a qualified solicitor or legal professional. Laws, regulations and local authority requirements may change over time and can vary depending on location and individual circumstances.
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date at the time of publication, no guarantees are made regarding completeness or applicability to your specific situation.
By using this website, you acknowledge that:
✓ You are responsible for ensuring your own business complies with all relevant UK laws and local authority rules
✓ You should seek professional legal advice before drafting, using or relying on any contract or legal document
✓ The website owner accepts no liability for loss, damage or legal issues arising from the use of this information
If you are unsure about any legal obligations, contractual terms or liabilities, it is strongly recommended that you consult a solicitor experienced in small business or consumer law.
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