Money Matters: Small actions add up – simple steps to help improve your finances

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In this week’s Money Matters column, Dan Bebbington, Housing Plus Group’s Financial Inclusion Manager, talks us through why Talk Money Week, which is running this week, is a great opportunity to take a fresh look at your household budget.

You really don't have to make big changes to improve your finances. Sometimes, one small step or even just talking about money can be enough to get you started – and with this year’s Talk Money Week theme being ‘It all counts’, it reminds us that even the smallest actions can make a difference.

You don’t need to solve everything overnight or have all the answers – but start with one thing you can achieve today, such as:

Start a budget planner

Having a good look at what money you have coming in and what you spend is key. Not keeping track of your finances makes you feel as though you’re not in control.

Setting up a budget planner is a great way of addressing this. Start by looking at your pay slip, your bank statements, bills and receipts to understand your income and expenses.

Online tools such as MoneyHelper’s budget planner is a good start and will help you keep track. When completing the planner, input everything accurately. Be honest and include all sources of income, such as your wages, benefits and any savings you might have.

You will then be able to analyse your spending. Look at your budget to identify areas where you can cut back or save. This could then provide you with an opportunity to start or top up your savings – and work on making your money go that bit further.

Shop with a list ready

Going food shopping without a list is one of the easiest ways to overspend. Write your list before you leave and stick to it. Meal planning for the week before you shop also reduces food waste, which the charity WRAP estimates costs the average UK household around £730 per year.

Collect supermarket loyalty points

And while we’re on the subject of food shopping, if you regularly shop at Sainsbury’s, use a Nectar card, if you shop at Tesco, use a Clubcard – you see where we’re going with this. Loyalty schemes give you points on every purchase that convert to vouchers or discounts. Tesco Clubcard points, for example, can be exchanged at up to three times their face value against partner rewards – and the schemes are free to join.

Download the Housing Perks app

If you’re a Housing Plus Group customer, access to the Housing Perks app is available to you and allows you to buy gift cards for a reduced price for a range of shops and other businesses. Supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Aldi and Morrisons all offer money off through the app.

Start a conversation about money

Money can be a difficult subject to talk about for many – especially if your finances are a source of stress but sharing those worries with someone you trust can be a helpful first step.

If you're worried about a bill, struggling to keep up with repayments or if the rising cost of living is resulting in sleepless nights, having an open and honest conversation can make the world of difference.

Seeking advice sooner rather than later can help you understand what support is available to you.

There is no shame in asking for help. Financial difficulties can affect anyone and nobody should have to face them alone.

• If you’re a Housing Plus Group customer, our Money Advice team is here to provide confidential, practical and personalised support. Speak to your housing officer if you are in need of support, who can refer you to the team.

6th November 2026